Can you paint the exterior trim of windows?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can paint the exterior trim of windows. The trim is the decorative framing around the windows on the outside of your home. Painting the trim can help protect it from weather damage and update the look of your home’s exterior.

Should You Paint Window Trim?

Painting the exterior window trim on your home can provide several benefits:

• Protects the wood from sun, rain, and other weather damage
• Covers up aging, cracked, or peeling existing paint
• Renews the look of dated trim
• Allows you to change the color scheme of your home
• Helps window frames blend in with a new exterior paint job

If your window sills and casings are showing signs of wear including chipping, peeling, or cracking paint, it’s a good idea to repaint them. Even if the paint is intact, giving trim a fresh coat can give your whole house exterior a facelift.

Preparing Window Trim for Painting

Proper prep work is crucial for getting great results when painting exterior trim. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Check for damage: Inspect all the trim pieces around the windows to see if any wood needs repair or replacement. Address any rotted or deteriorated sections before painting.
2. Wash the surface: Use a garden hose, power washer, or scrub brush to thoroughly clean the trim and surrounding exterior walls. This removes dirt, cobwebs, chalky paint, mildew, and other debris that could interfere with paint adhesion.
3. Scrape off loose paint: Use a paint scraper, putty knife, or wire brush to remove any paint that is already cracking, blistering, or peeling away.
4. Sand rough areas: Lightly sand any remaining paint edges or rough wood with fine grit sandpaper to feather and smooth them.
5. Prime bare wood: For new or stripped trim pieces, apply exterior wood primer before painting to seal the wood and help the topcoat adhere.
6. Caulk gaps and joints: Use a quality exterior paintable caulk to fill any cracks, gaps, or open joints around the edges of trim pieces.

Proper prep removes surface residue and gives the new paint something sound to stick to. Rushing this step can cause the fresh paint to fail prematurely.

Choosing Exterior Paint Type

When selecting paint for window trim, consider products formulated for outdoor use on wood surfaces. Options include:

• Oil-based/alkyd paints – Offer good adhesion and durability. Require solvent for cleanup.
• Latex/acrylic paints – Bond well to multiple surfaces. Easy water clean up. Not ideal for very hot/humid climates.
• Enamels – Provide a durable, shiny finish. Require solvent cleanup.
• Primer/paint combinations – Convenient all-in-one options for priming and painting.

Factors like your home’s location, climate, amount of direct sun exposure, and desired finish can help determine the best choice. Latex and acrylic paints work well for most DIYers due to their ease of application.

Picking Paint Colors for Window Trim

White is a popular choice for window trim since it looks clean and fresh. But you can also select more colorful tones to add personality. Consider the following when picking paint colors:

• Architectural style of your home – Some styles like Craftsman or Victorian suit bold colors while modern homes look best with neutral shades.
• Existing exterior color scheme – Coordinate the trim color with your siding, shutter, and door colors.
• Amount of direct sunlight – Lighter colors show wear from sun faster than darker hues.
• Personal preference – Choose a trim color you find attractive and appropriate for your home’s style.

Visit a paint store to check out color samples and palette options. Neutrals like grays, taupes, and beiges are always safe bets.

Painting Window Trim

Once prepped, use these tips to apply the new paint:

• Read safety information – Carefully follow all directions, note dry time, viability after opening, and proper ventilation.
• Use high quality brushes – Well-made angled trim brushes help you cut in neatly and reach corners.
• Paint sides first – Start by painting the vertical side pieces of the trim, then across the top horizontal surfaces.
• Apply even coats – Use smooth strokes and don’t overload the brush to prevent drips and sags.
• Work top to bottom – Paint upper trim areas before lower sections to avoid drips running onto freshly painted surfaces below.
• Work in full sections – Finish all the trim around one window before moving to the next.

Applying a primer coat can help the topcoat cover fully. Allow proper dry time between coats as specified by the manufacturer.

Protecting Freshly Painted Window Trim

Once the paint job is complete, take steps to protect the finish:

• Keep windows closed – Shut windows tightly for the first few days to allow thorough drying without exposure to outdoor elements.
• Add exterior caulk – Finish by caulking all seams and gaps around the freshly painted trim.
• Consider adding sealant – Adding extra protection with exterior-grade polyurethane or varnish can extend the life of the paint.
• Use gentle cleaning methods – Rinse trim with plain water and use mild cleaners to preserve your paint job.
• Inspect paint annually – Check for any new cracks or damage and touch up as needed to prevent deterioration.

With proper care and maintenance, freshly painted window trim can look great for many years before needing redone. Pay attention and address any issues early.

Cost to Paint Exterior Window Trim

If hiring a professional painter to coat exterior window trim, costs typically range from $3-$7 per linear foot depending on labor rates in your area. This covers standard prep work, priming, painting, caulking, and protecting the finish.

Factors that can increase price include:

• Extensive repairs needed to damaged wood before painting
• Difficult access to upper story windows requiring scaffolding or lift rental
• Lots of custom trim details requiring precision work
• Choosing specialty paints like lacquer over standard acrylics
• Opting to paint or replace exterior window shutters in addition to just trim

For a 2,000 square foot two-story home, expect to pay around $1,500-$3,000 to have a professional paint all the exterior window trim. Doing the project yourself can cost under $500.

Conclusion

Regularly painting the exterior trim around your home’s windows helps protect this delicate decorative woodwork. Prep work is essential for proper adhesion and long-lasting results. Use high quality exterior paints and paint systematically from top to bottom. Avoid exposing freshly painted surfaces to moisture. With proper preparation and products, a fresh coat of paint on your window trim can help update the curb appeal of your home.