How to Paint a Window Like a Professional?

By: Jessica Ackerman

Painting a window seems like a relatively easy task, but for anyone who has accidentally painted a window shut, they know it is sometimes not as easy as it looks. There are tips and tricks to painting a window that will make the process run smoother. Learn how to paint a window like a professional by following the simple steps below.

1. Materials

A painting job is only as good as the tools used to complete it. For a professional looking job it is important to have the following materials: A drop cloth, painter's tape, fine grit sand paper, a clean cloth, a high-quality brush, primer, and paint. All of the materials can be found at local paint shops and home improvement stores. Once the tools have been acquired it is time to begin.

2. Tape It

Painting a window is, at the very least, time consuming. Before beginning to paint, tape the window where the window frame meets the glass. It is also a good idea to tape along the entire outside frame of the window where it meets the wall if the painting will extend that far. Blue painters tape is the tape used by most professionals as it comes off easily and leaves little to no residue.

3. Preparation

Preparing the area for the job is just as important as painting itself. Lay out the drop cloth on the floor beneath the window. Using the fine grit sandpaper, sand the sill, window frame and any other surfaces that will be painted. After sanding, wipe the surfaces down with a clean, damp cloth. This helps remove old dirt and dust and prepares the window for painting. If removing the windows from the window sill is an option, do it. With the windows out it will be easier to paint all of the surfaces quickly, evenly and in a shorter period of time.

4. Primer

If the window has been previously painted a dark color, it is best to prime the window before painting it. This will add time to the project, but it will ensure that only the top coat of color will be "true". Use the highest quality brush available for the job. Many paint supply stores can guide do-it-yourself homeowners in the direction of brushes that are designed perfectly for window painting. Seek out their expertise. After the primer has been applied, allow it to dry completely before beginning to paint.

5. Paint

When painting begins, be sure to work one section at a time. Although it may be tempting to paint the top and bottom sills at the same time, if that is done they may end up sticking to one another and creating a bigger, more time consuming mess. Work from the top down and the inside out. Once one side is completed, paint the other side if desired. Allow the paint to dry completely and never place two recently painted panes together or they will surely stick.

Painting a window like a professional is all about time, patience and preparation. Invest in high-quality tools and supplies and the job is sure to run smoother. As with all home improvement projects, before beginning a window painting project, make sure that there is enough time available to complete it.