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I love the clean, classic look of black windows. They add a slightly modern feel to a space and can make your windows pop!
Did you know that you can get the look WITHOUT having to replace your windows? And you can do it for cheap! You know I love a good budget friendly update… and paint is my number one go to when updating spaces!
***Disclaimer*** If you have newer windows with a valid warranty… painting them will likely void that warranty. Be sure to check with your particular window manufacturer.
There are two ways to paint your windows: with a brush or you can spray them. I am going to show you how I sprayed mine… with spray paint! There are a few reasons I chose spray paint. First, the paint I use is a primer + paint in one! Saves a step!!! Also, I like that spray paint has a thinner, less goopy texture… therefore, less likely to “seal your windows shut”. (None of mine have been “painted shut” after using this method.)
So let’s gather our supplies and get started!
Supplies:
- painters tape
- masking film
- press n seal
- spray paint of your choice- this is the one I prefer
- drop cloths
- mask
Step 1: Prep-Clean! You will need to thoroughly clean your windows, windowsills, and the surrounding surface. I like to vacuum first with a crevice tool to get all the nooks and crannies. Then I go back with window cleaner.
Step 2: Prep- Tape off. Once you have the windows cleaned, it is time to tape off. I start with the inner panes first. (I have wood windows with the panes exposed.) After all the inners panes are taped off, I the add press n seal- yes, the stuff you use to cover your food! I place it over the glass that is left exposed after taping the panes. I make sure to press down around the edges and ensure that none of it is touching the actual panes.
I then tape off around the window trim… I leave my actual trim white… I only paint the window itself. I leave the tape flapped up a little around the edges so that i can adhere the masking film to it also. Once the trim is taped off, I unroll the masking film (cutting a piece to size) and adhere one edge to the tape on the trim then extend the film to cover surround walls, ceilings and floors. The masking film has a cling like surface so it will cling to the walls… it doesn’t cling well to my popcorn ceilings- so I just add a piece of tape in a few placed to stick it to my ceiling.
I then lay out the drop cloths on the floor… I have learned that it is best to extend it out at least 6 feet, because the overspray will float and land on the surrounding floors.
Step 3: Prep- extra. Now before you spray… there are a few extra things I like to do. First to help contain the overspray. First, I turn off my AC, just for a few minutes. Then I also turn off any ceiling fans in the room. I also like to have my diffuser ready to go with purification and citrus fresh essential oils in it. This combo helps to remove the spray paint odor almost immediately!
Step 4: Paint! Now it’s finally time to paint! You want to do long sweeping motions. Don’t stop over one any particular area or it will cause runs and drips. It’s better to do two light coats than one heavy coat. Now, let it dry.
Once the paint is dry, you can carefully remove all the masking film and tape. I start with the outer masking film. Then remove the press n seal from the glass. Then I remove the tape from around the window panes. I like to be careful the first day or two around the freshly painted areas until the paint has fully cured.
I am excited to get all the other windows in my home done- it has made such a huge difference in the look and feel of my home.
Now sit back and enjoy your beautiful “new” windows!
*** Note. There is also a product available called masking paint. You paint the masking product on the actual glass of the windows. Allow it to completely dry then you can paint without taping off the panes. You will have to go back after the paint is dry and score the area around each window pane and then peel the film off. I have not used this method, but have a few friends who have. It is a little pricier of a product and you have to have the extra drying step, then score and peel. I just choose to take a little extra time to tape off.
I hope you’ll come back soon for more DIY’s, decor, recipes and all the in between.
Michelle Daniel says
Love the black windows. I have a couple of questions.
Are your windows wood or vinyl?
Once painted, can you still open and close the windows? Does the paint scratch?
MyDIYHappyHome says
Hi. Thank you. My windows are wood…and yes.. the spray paint is a thin enough paint that I have had no issues opening the windows. I made sure to let the paint thoroughly dry and cure for a few days … but have had no scratching… even with the ones in my kiddos play area with the window seat.:)
Lindsey says
What is my windows aren’t wood? Will the spray paint still work & adhere?
MyDIYHappyHome says
Hi. I have had several who have painted windows other than wood and it has worked. I personally have only painted the wood ones.