How to Paint Metal Window Frames

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Things You'll Need

  • Water-based degreaser

  • Water hose

  • Rags

  • Coarse plastic brush

  • Blue painter's tape

  • Galvanized metal etching primer

  • 2 to 3-inch latex paintbrush

  • Acrylic latex paint

  • Razor blade

  • Measuring cup

  • Wooden stir stick

Scrape any paint overlap from the window glass using a razor blade.

Painting your metal window frames has some associated complications. Unlike wood, metal is not porous, making it a poor candidate for primer and paint adhesion. You will need to coat your window frames with a specific type of primer that will abrade the surface to enhance adhesion capabilities. In addition, because metal is so slick, you may want to use a particular application strategy that will help to promote a smoother-looking finish.

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Step 1

Scrub the window frame clean with a water-based degreasing agent using a coarse plastic brush. Rinse the frame with a water hose or wet rags. Allow the metal frame to dry.

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Step 2

Cover areas running adjacent to the window frame with painter's tape. Cover the window glass adjacent to the frame with painter's tape, as well.

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Step 3

Apply a coat of galvanized metal etching primer to the metallic window frame using a paintbrush specifically manufactured for use with latex paints. Allow the etching primer to dry for one hour, and then remove the tape from the window glass only. Allow the etching primer to cure for an additional three hours.

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Step 4

Wash the brush with water.

Step 5

Apply a coat of acrylic latex paint using the cleaned paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry for two hours, and then apply an additional coat if you can see the etching primer showing through the finish coat.

Step 6

Allow the final finish to dry for two hours, and then scrape any paint overlap from the window glass using a razor blade.

Tip

If you are an inexperienced painter who struggles with brush control, you may want to dilute the paint to encourage a smoother-looking finish. Stir in one ounce of water per one gallon of paint using a wooden stir stick.

Warning

Do not paint over bare, unprimed metal window frames, or the paint will peel.

Do not use a standard acrylic primer in place of an etching primer, or the finish will chip.

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