How To Remove Old Paint From Vinyl Window Frames

There always seems to be a lot of questions that arise when it comes to vinyl window frames. When it comes to painting vinyl window trim and getting the old paint off, there are few steps to take. You’re not going to want to paint right over old paint either because that can lead to problems down the line. We’re here to give you all the details that can help to answer this question.

Let’s dig right into all information you need to know about how to remove old paint from vinyl window frames!

Should you be painting vinyl window frames?

The answer to this question depends on what your exterior window trim is made of. Also, what it was painted with previously also makes a difference. You can paint window trim, but you want to be careful what type of paint you use, especially in regards to exterior vinyl window trim.

If you have vinyl siding on the exterior of your home, you’ll want to use a paint that is compatible with vinyl. Because vinyl expands so often, it’s important to use an acrylic or latex paint. Acrylic seems to be one of the most common paints used on exterior surfaces. Because of the durability and long lasting results – acrylic or latex paint is a good option for your window trims made of vinyl.

What you need to remove the paint from vinyl window frames

You’re going to want some tools and other handy items before you get started on removing old paint from vinyl windows. If you plan on painting your vinyl windows after removing the old paint, you’re also going to need to get some acrylic or latex paint for this task.

Here’s what you’re going to need:

• Putty knife
• Paint stripper or remover
• Soap
• Rag
• Sponge
• Gloves
• Goggles
• (Optional) Painter’s tape
• (Optional) Acrylic or Latex paint

How to remove the paint from vinyl window frames

Firstly, you’re going to want to try and soften the old paint that’s on your vinyl window frames. You can do this by taking a rag and a little warm water (and soap, if needed) and gently rubbing it across your vinyl window frames. If the rag and warm water doesn’t seem to be getting the job done, you can use a sponge. It might possess some more of that grittiness that is needed.

Then you can go in with your putty knife or scraper and try to gently scrape the paint off. It’s important to apply just a small amount of pressure since you’re right on your vinyl window frame. If you go smoothly and lightly in just one direction with your scraper, it’s likely not to damage the vinyl window frame or your windows. Very minimal disruption to the windows and the frames as a whole is what you’re looking for here. It’s an important part of how to get old paint from vinyl windows.

You might need paint remover for your vinyl window frames

As a last resort, you might have to get out some paint stripper or remover in order to properly get the paint off your vinyl window frames. A paint stripper like Klean Strip will do the job just fine. This is for sure where you want to get out your gloves to protect your hands. You might want to wear a pair of protective goggles as well as paint stripper is quite potent.

This is when you very carefully apply the paint stripper to your vinyl window frames. You can use either a small paint brush or a rag. You’ll want to follow the instructions set out, but they usually involve application then waiting a few minutes. After you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time, simply wipe off any remaining paint. From there, give the area a good wash with soap and water again. By then your vinyl window frames should be bare and you can think about a fresh new paint job!