While aluminum window frames are highly preferred for their durability and resistance to the elements, their shiny silver color isn’t always the best complement to our home’s aesthetics. For this reason, many people choose to paint their aluminum windows in a shade that matches the rest of their home décor. However, there is a problem with this option, as aluminum is not porous, which means that the paint will not adhere very well.
Before you even think about painting your aluminum windows, you’ll need to thoroughly clean them and prepare them for the process. Mix a little washing powder with warm water and use a clean cloth to remove dirt and other debris from the frames. Use a well-lubricated plastic brush with a degreaser to scrub aluminum surfaces. Then rinse the windows with a hose or a damp rag and allow the entire area to dry for at least forty-eight hours. To protect the glass and surrounding wall, cover the surfaces next to the window with masking tape and place a tarp on the ground below.
You will need to apply a galvanized metal etch primer to aluminum window frames using a latex brush. Many people also like to mix about a pint of paint thinner with just under a gallon of primer to help it adhere to the aluminum window and dry faster. This will help the paint seep into the metal frame and prevent it from peeling over time. Allow the primer to dry and cure for at least four hours, making sure to thoroughly wash the brush you used with clean water.
Once the primer has completely dried, you can begin applying a coat of acrylic latex paint to the aluminum windows in the color of your choice. Using the same latex brush you used before is fine. Let the paint dry for at least two hours. You may want to apply additional coats of paint, depending on how your windows look and the quality of the brush strokes. Once the paint is dry, remove the masking tape from the window and the surrounding wall.
As long as you apply the proper primer to your aluminum windows and allow it to dry long enough before applying the paint, this entire process is relatively easy and painless. It can easily be completed in a weekend, instantly taking your home from drab to fabulous.
