How to Paint Old Wooden Windows

Painting wood windows inside or out is a daunting task.

Painting wooden windows is a difficult and time-consuming project that will result in beautiful fresh windows. Unfortunately, not all windows are designed to be removable, and most painted wood windows allow for painting only the wood visible when the windows are shut. If windows are removable type, it will make the job much easier. The TLC website suggests using a 2- or 2 1/2-inch angled sash trim paintbrush to easily reach 90-degree corners and other tight window spaces.

Things You'll Need

• Paint stripper
• Clean cloths
• Paint scraper
• Putty knife
• Wood filler
• 80-grit sandpaper
• 120-grit sandpaper
• 200-grit finishing sandpaper
• Wood primer
• Paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Apply paint stripper, using a clean cloth. Allow it to sit until the paint peels or bubbles. For unpainted windows, move to Step 3.

2. Scrape and sand the entire wood surface, using the paint scraper and 80-grit sandpaper.

3. Fill all holes with wood filler. Scrape excess filler even with the surface, using the putty knife. Allow the filler to dry completely.

4. Sand with the 120-grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth.

5. Finish-sand with the 200-grit sandpaper until the wood is smooth to the touch and appears to glow slightly.

6. Apply primer to the surface, using the paintbrush, and allow it to dry. Apply a second coat if necessary. If any primer or paint get on the window glass, wipe it clean with a damp cloth before it dries.

7. Rinse the paintbrush and allow it to dry.

8. Apply the paint, using the paintbrush. Allow it to dry. Apply as many coats as needed until the color is uniform.

9. Scrape any dried paint from the window glass after paint is dry, using the paint scraper. Allow the paint to cure for at least two weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Cover holes where removable windows should be with plastic or cardboard as the paint cures. Use plywood sheets if safety and home security are concerns.

• If you don't give the paint enough time to cure, the painted finish could be damaged.

References

• TLC: Painting Windows