Tips AU

How to paint window frames and door frames

By Katie

Updated: August 7th, 2019

Windows and doors need a little bit of extra painting TLC, here's why!

It’s arguably the hardest part of the painting process, and although patience and a steady hand will get you most of the way, there are some tips and tricks that you need to know to make window and door painting a lot easier and quicker.

Here’s our guide on how to paint window frames and also door frames:

1. Clean & painting prep

Cleaning and preparing the windows are an absolute must if you want to have a great shiny and smooth finish. To start with remove curtains and fixtures, this will make it a lot easier to paint and ensure you don’t have as much of a clean up at the end.

To clean all the spiderwebs and dust use a sugar soap, which will give you a clean surface to paint on.

 Don’t forget on the top of the window sill, you might not be able to see it, but it’s still worthwhile cleaning the dust for a complete finish.

Now it’s time to lay down the drop sheets (old bed sheets will do!) under the frame so that you don’t drop any paint on the floor.

2. Masking tape

This is essential for windows and door frames where you have two different colours and want smooth lines. For windows, you’ll need to put masking tape on both the wall and also the glass.

To get straight edges when you line the tape up, push the edges down where the paint will meet the tape. For corners, use a knife to tear it for a perfect seal.

 When removing the masking tape afterwards, rip it off slowly at an angle before the paint completely dries otherwise it might cause the paint to rip too.

If there are any other larger parts that you need to paint around which can’t be removed, use paper towels to cover and then tape to hold it in place.

3. Filling in and patching

Everything gets scratches and holes after a little while – it’s just a part of being a homeowner! You can use a little bit of filler with a putty knife to fill in the hole. Then use a damp cloth to remove any excess and help to give it a smooth surface – and less sanding!

4. Brushes and painting

Now for the fun part – painting time! Grab an angled and dip it halfway into the paint (you don’t need a lot of on your brush) and then tap it on the bucket.

When you start to paint, go closest to the glass first so that you can make your way out, so you don’t smudge it as you go. After you’ve finished the inside, do the frame that faces the room.

Depending on the paint and the previous colour, you might need multiple coats.

5. Cleaning up

Remove the masking tape slowly before the paint has completely dried. If it’s already dried, have a knife handy to help cut away the tape without peeling your beautiful paintwork.

Packing up the drop sheets, store any unused paint for touch ups and clean brushes and store them correctly to use again for your next painting project.

Do you have any tips for window frame painting? Let us know in the comments below! 

Looking for more help? Check out our House painting hacks.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie

I've loved interior design for as long as I can remember and I'm currently about to renovate my first home. So as well as being the Content Lead at Airtasker, I'm also on the lookout for the latest design trends, backyard ideas and anything to do around the home. I'm also trying to use low-tox cleaning methods and work towards being more plastic-free!

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Comments

  1. Vera Myronenko

    Thank you I just planned to paint front door frame so as to install a screen door for summer.

  2. Vera Myronenko

    Need to know re brushes to buy for painting door frames inside house And outside front door