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Painting windows can be tedious and time-consuming, often leading to frustration and messy results. However, with the right technique and products, you can transform this challenging job into a quick and efficient task.
In this article and accompanying video, This Old House expert painter Mauro Henriquede and host Kevin O’Connor demonstrate a clever painting method using masking liquid to streamline window painting. This technique makes it easier than ever to achieve professional-looking results.
*Cost information in this article sourced from Angi.
Understanding the Challenges of Painting Windows
Painting windows presents unique difficulties that can test even experienced DIYers. The intricate design of window frames, with their multiple panes and narrow muntins, creates numerous opportunities for paint to end up where it doesn’t belong.
Common Window Painting Problems
- Difficulty performing clean, straight lines
- Paint bleeding onto glass panes
- Time-consuming masking and taping process
- Uneven coverage on muntins and frames
Traditional Methods and Their Drawbacks
Many homeowners resort to painstakingly taping off each window pane or attempting to paint with a steady hand. While these methods can work, they often lead to less-than-ideal results and consume a significant amount of time.
Technique Detail: As noted in This Old House Magazine, the unique topography of glass and muntins requires special techniques. Painter John Dee advises: “Always paint the upper sash first. That way, you can move the lower sash and not mess up the paint.” He also deliberately leaves a thin line of paint on the glass as he works, then places a straight-edged razor blade flat against the glass and plows the wet paint into the gap between wood and glass — getting a clean edge and a good seal in one step. “It’s the best way to do it,” he says.
The Masking Liquid Solution For Painting Windows
Masking liquid offers a game-changing approach to window painting, addressing many of the common challenges associated with this task.
What is Masking Liquid?
Masking liquid is a specialized product designed to protect surfaces during painting. It applies as a liquid and dries to form a protective film that you can peel off easily after the painting is complete.
Benefits of Using Masking Liquid
- Allows for more relaxed and efficient painting
- Doubles as a spot primer for wood surfaces
- Provides excellent protection for glass panes
- Saves time compared to traditional taping methods
Step-By-Step Guide To Priming and Painting Windows
Follow these steps to achieve professional-looking results when painting your windows:
- Clean the window thoroughly, removing any dirt, dust, or old paint flakes.
- Apply two coats of masking liquid to the glass panes, allowing 30 minutes between coats.
- Let the masking liquid dry for four hours after the second coat.
- Apply your chosen paint to the wood parts of the window, including muntins and frames.
- Allow the paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use a razor knife to score along the edge where the paint meets the masking liquid.
- Carefully peel off the masking liquid, revealing clean, unpainted glass underneath.
Tips for Successful Window Painting
For the best possible outcome when painting your windows, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a high-quality paintbrush suitable for detail work
- Consider using a primer if painting bare wood or changing colors drastically
- Paint on a day with low humidity for optimal drying conditions
- Work in well-ventilated areas and consider using a respirator
Pro Tip: Calla Jean, a painting expert featured on This Old House, emphasizes the importance of brush selection: “It’s important to buy a good brush when you’re doing sash like this. Because it’s a firm bristle, it’s a pure hundred percent bristle, which means it will hold the paint better, and it will also put it on nicer. And therefore, your job will go faster and it will be neater.” She also notes that an angled-cut brush helps you get into all the tight corners around window muntins without getting paint on the glass.
Selecting the Right Paint for Windows
As Tom Silva, This Old House general contractor, explains: “People put paint on their houses for looks, but what they’re really doing is protecting the wood.” Paint keeps out water, which fosters rot, and blocks the degrading effects of ultraviolet radiation — so choosing the right formulation for your windows isn’t just cosmetic, it’s essential to preserving the wood beneath.
Choosing the appropriate paint is key to achieving a durable and attractive finish on your windows. Here are the types of paints we recommend using and factors to keep in mind when selecting paint for your project.
Types of Paint Suitable for Windows
The best type of paint for your windows will vary depending on where you plan on applying it and how long you want the paint job to last. Here are some guidelines:
- Exterior latex paint for outdoor-facing windows
- Interior latex paint for indoor windows
- Oil-based paints for a harder, more durable finish
Factors to Consider When Choosing Window Paint
Keep the following factors in mind when picking your paint:
- Climate and weather exposure
- Desired finish (glossy, semi-gloss, or matte)
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- The paint’s volatile organic compound (VOC) content and environmental impact
Maintaining Painted Windows
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your newly painted windows and keep them looking fresh. Follow these tips to keep your windows looking their best:
Regular Cleaning
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the paint finish
- Dust window frames and sills regularly
- Wash painted surfaces gently with mild soap and water as needed
Touch-ups and Repairs
- Address any chips or peeling promptly to prevent further damage
- Keep leftover paint for future touch-ups
- Reapply caulk around window frames as necessary to prevent moisture intrusion
Our Conclusion
Painting windows doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. By using masking liquid and following the steps outlined above, you can achieve professional-looking results with less time and frustration. This approach transforms window painting from a tedious task into a manageable and rewarding home improvement project.
Pro Tip: John Dee, a professional painter with over 30 years of experience who has worked on six This Old House projects, advises: “Masking-off a window takes as much time as painting it. The only windows you need to tape are ones with high-tech coated glass, which can be damaged by metal scraper blades.”
