Can You Paint Exterior Window Trim? You bet! Here’s how to do it with ease, using high-quality paint and supplies.
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Materials
You’ll need a few supplies before you start painting window trim. For this project you’ll need: 100-grit sandpaper, primer, paint, paintbrush, and a ladder.
What type of paint to use
Different kinds of paint are formulated to work best on different surfaces. Some are specifically designed for use on masonry, while others work best on primed or previously painted wood.
If you’re not sure what type of paint to use, ask a salesperson at your local home improvement store. They can help you select the right type of paint and primer for your project.
Tools
You will need a few supplies before you can get started painting your window trim. First, you will need a ladder or something similar to reach the top of the window. Second, you will need painter’s tape to tape off the areas that you do not want to paint. Third, you will need a drop cloth to protect the area around the window from paint. Finally, you will need a brush and some paint.
Paintbrush
The paintbrush is the most common tool for painting exterior window trim. A good quality brush will hold a lot of paint and release it evenly, giving you a smooth, professional-looking finish. When buying a paintbrush, look for one with natural bristles (made from animal hair) rather than synthetic (made from plastic or nylon). Natural bristles are softer and more flexible, making them less likely to leave brush strokes in your paint job.
Roller
A roller is one of the simplest and most versatile tools you can use when painting exterior window trim. You can use it to apply paint evenly and smoothly to both flat and textured surfaces. You can also use it to reach tight spaces and corners. If you’re painting a large area, a roller will help you cover it more quickly than a brush.
Extension pole (optional)
For most people, an extension pole is an optional tool for painting exterior window trim. An extension pole can help you reach high windows or tight spaces, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you decide to use an extension pole, make sure it’s the right size and type for your project. Otherwise, you might end up with a paint job that’s less than perfect.
Preparation
You can paint exterior window trim, but you need to take some preparatory steps first. These steps include choosing the right type of paint, preparing the surface, and making sure the trim is clean. Once you’ve taken care of these things, you’re ready to start painting.
Clean the trim
The first step in any paint job is to clean the surface you’re going to be painting. That means getting rid of any dirt, dust, or other contaminants that might get in the way of a smooth, even finish.
For window trim, that means giving the trim a thorough washing with soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Pay special attention to any nooks and crannies where dirt and grime might be hiding. Once you’ve given the trim a good cleaning, rinse it off with clean water and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Remove old paint (optional)
If the window trim is in good condition and you just want to change the color, you can skip this step. But if the paint is cracked, flaking, or peeling, you’ll need to remove it before repainting. You can use a chemical paint stripper, but for a green option try using a heat gun. It’s more work, but it’s also more eco-friendly.
Painting
Yes, you can paint exterior window trim. You should first remove any loose paint, dirt, or debris from the surface. Then, you should sand the surface to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. After that, you can apply a primer and then paint the window trim.
Paint the trim
If your home’s exterior window trim is in need of a little TLC, painting is a great way to give it new life. Depending on the type of paint and the trim’s condition, you may be able to get away with a single coat. If the trim is peeling or has cracks, you may need to primed it first. Once you’ve prepped the trim, choose a paint that’s suitable for exteriors and follow the manufacturers directions for application.
Cleanup
Clean the tools
When you’re finished painting, take the time to clean your tools. A clean paintbrush will last longer and give you better results. Use a wire brush to remove excess paint from the bristles, then rinse with mineral spirits or paint thinner. Wrap the brush in a paper towel, then store it in a plastic bag until you’re ready to use it again.