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Have you looked at your windows lately and thought, “These look really old and dull”? You’re not alone. Millions of homes have UPVC windows that have gone from bright white to a yellowy, patchy mess over the years. But here’s the good news, spraying UPVC windows can bring them back to life. And we mean really back to life.
So does spraying UPVC windows look like new? The short answer is yes. But let’s dig into exactly how it works, what you can expect, and whether it’s the right choice for your home.
What Are UPVC Windows Made Of?
UPVC stands for Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride. That’s a mouthful, right? Think of it as a strong, hard type of plastic that doesn’t bend or flex easily. It’s used in windows and doors all over the world because it’s tough, low-maintenance, and great at keeping heat inside your home.
When UPVC windows are made, they’re usually bright white. They look clean and modern. But over time, things change. The material starts to age, and that bright white starts to fade away.
Why Do UPVC Windows Look Old and Tired?
Sun Damage and Fading
The sun is the biggest enemy of UPVC windows. UV rays hit the surface day after day, year after year. Over time, those rays break down the colour in the material. That’s why white UPVC windows often turn yellow or cream. It’s not because they’re dirty, it’s because the sun has literally changed the colour of the plastic.
Dirt and Staining
Pollution, rain, bird droppings, and general outdoor grime all stick to UPVC over time. Even if you clean your windows regularly, the frames can start to look stained and grubby. Some marks go deep into the surface and just won’t come off with a cloth and some soapy water.
When you add fading and staining together, it’s easy to see why UPVC windows can look really bad after 10 to 15 years.
What Does UPVC Window Spraying Actually Mean?
UPVC window spraying is a process where a specialist coats your window frames with a special type of paint using a spray gun. This isn’t like painting a wall with a brush. The paint used is specially made to stick to UPVC and last for many years.
Think of it like respraying a car. When a car gets a fresh coat of paint, it looks shiny and brand new again. The same idea applies here. The paint goes on in thin, even layers that bond to the UPVC surface and create a smooth, hard finish.
How Does the Spraying Process Work?
You might be wondering what actually happens when a professional comes to spray your windows. Here’s a simple breakdown.
Step 1: Cleaning the Surface
Before anything else, the window frames are cleaned really well. All the dirt, grease, and grime has to come off. If the surface isn’t clean, the paint won’t stick properly. This step takes more time than you’d think.
Step 2: Masking and Protecting
After cleaning, the professional will cover everything that shouldn’t get paint on it. The glass, the walls, the surrounding areas — all of it gets masked off carefully. This is what makes professional spraying so neat and tidy.
Step 3: Applying the Paint Spray
Now comes the fun part. The specialist uses a spray gun to apply the paint in smooth, even layers. They usually do two or three coats to make sure the colour is solid and the finish is perfect.
Step 4: Drying and Finishing
Once the paint is on, it needs time to dry and harden. Most modern UPVC paints dry quickly, but the full curing process can take a little longer. After that, the masking comes off and your windows look completely different.
Does Spraying UPVC Windows Really Make Them Look New?
Yes, and this surprises a lot of people. When the job is done well, sprayed UPVC windows look absolutely brand new. The surface is smooth, the colour is rich and even, and there are no streaks or patches.
In fact, many people say their neighbours don’t even realise the windows haven’t been replaced. The finish can be that good. Whether you go for classic white, a modern grey, or even a bold black, the result is a window that looks like it just came out of the factory.
The key here is quality. A good professional using the right paint and the right technique will give you results that are genuinely impressive. A bad job, on the other hand, can leave you with peeling, bubbling, or uneven colour. So choosing the right person for the job really matters.
How Long Does UPVC Window Spraying Last?
This is one of the most common questions people ask. A good quality UPVC respray should last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Some jobs last even longer if the windows are looked after properly.
The lifespan depends on a few things. The quality of the paint makes a big difference. So does how well the surface was prepared before painting. And of course, the weather plays a role too — windows that get a lot of direct sun and rain will wear faster than those in more sheltered spots.
Most reputable companies offer a guarantee of around 10 years on their work. That gives you peace of mind that you’re getting a finish that will actually last.
What Colors Can You Choose?
This is where things get really exciting for homeowners. You’re not stuck with white. UPVC spraying opens up a whole world of colour options.
Popular choices include anthracite grey, which is huge right now in modern homes. Cream and beige are great for older or period properties. Black frames give a really striking, contemporary look. And some people even go for bold colours like deep blue or green to make their home stand out.
If you can imagine a colour, there’s a good chance a professional can spray it. Most companies use a RAL colour system, which gives you hundreds of options to pick from. It’s like choosing a new outfit for your home.
Is UPVC Spraying Better Than Replacing Windows?
Cost Comparison
Replacing all the windows in a house can cost thousands of pounds. We’re talking anywhere from £4,000 to £10,000 or more, depending on the size of your home and the type of windows you choose.
UPVC spraying, on the other hand, costs a fraction of that. Most whole-house jobs come in between £800 and £2,500. That’s a massive saving for a result that looks just as good from the outside.
Time and Disruption
Getting new windows fitted takes days and causes a lot of disruption. Workers are in and out of your home, there’s noise, dust, and mess, and you might even be without windows for a short period.
Spraying your windows takes one to two days for a full house. The workers stay mostly outside, and you barely notice them. Much easier on everyone.
Can You Spray UPVC Windows Yourself?
DIY vs Professional Spraying
Technically, yes you can buy UPVC spray paint and try to do it yourself. But here’s the honest truth: DIY UPVC spraying Manchester rarely looks as good as professional work. Getting an even, smooth finish with a spray gun takes skill and practice. Most people end up with runs, uneven patches, or paint that peels off within a year or two.
Professional sprayers use high-grade equipment and specialist paints that you can’t just buy at your local hardware store. They know how to prep the surface properly, apply the right number of coats, and finish the job cleanly.
If you want results that genuinely look like new, it’s worth paying for a professional.
What Are the Benefits of Spraying UPVC Windows?
There are so many reasons why homeowners love UPVC spraying. Here’s why it makes sense:
It costs much less than full replacement. It makes your home look completely different in just a day or two. You can change the colour without replacing anything. It adds value to your home.
It’s much less messy and disruptive than a full window replacement. It’s a greener choice because you’re not throwing old windows into landfill. And the finish is tough, weather-resistant, and long-lasting.
It’s honestly one of the best home improvement investments you can make for the money.
Are There Any Downsides?
Let’s be fair here. UPVC spraying isn’t perfect for every situation. If your window frames are cracked, warped, or badly damaged, spraying them won’t fix those structural problems. Paint can cover colour issues, but it can’t fix broken frames.
Also, if the seals around your windows are failing and letting in drafts, spraying won’t help with that either. In cases like these, replacement might actually be the better choice.
And as mentioned earlier, a poor quality job can look worse than before. So if you go cheap, you might regret it.
How Much Does It Cost to Spray UPVC Windows?
Prices vary depending on how many windows you have and where you live in the country. As a rough guide:
A single window frame might cost between £50 and £150 to spray. A full set of windows for an average three-bedroom house usually costs between £800 and £2,000. Some companies charge per frame, others quote for the whole job.
Always get at least three quotes before choosing a company. And check their reviews and ask to see examples of their previous work.
How to Find a Good UPVC Spraying Company
Finding the right company makes all the difference. Here’s what to look for. Check online reviews on Google or Trustpilot. Ask friends or neighbours if they’ve had their windows sprayed and who they used.
Look for companies that offer a written guarantee of at least 10 years. Ask what paint brand they use and whether it’s specifically made for UPVC. A good company will always be happy to answer your questions.
Don’t just go for the cheapest quote. A cheap job that peels off in two years is no bargain at all.
Final Thoughts
So, does spraying UPVC windows look like new? Absolutely. When the job is done right, it’s genuinely hard to tell the difference between freshly sprayed frames and brand new ones.
It’s a smart, affordable way to refresh the look of your home without spending a fortune on replacement windows.
Whether you want to cover up years of sun damage, change the colour of your frames, or just give your home a facelift, UPVC spraying is a great option. Just make sure you use a reputable professional, pick a colour you love, and enjoy the results for years to come.
People also ask
How long does UPVC window spraying take?
Most professional companies can spray all the windows on an average-sized house in one to two days. Bigger homes might take a little longer.
Will the paint crack or peel off?
If the job is done by a skilled professional using high-quality paint, the finish should not crack or peel for at least 10 years. Poor preparation or cheap paint can cause peeling much sooner.
Can UPVC doors be sprayed too?
Yes! UPVC doors can be sprayed using the same process. Many homeowners spray their doors and windows at the same time to get a matching, fresh look across the whole property.
Does UPVC spraying add value to my home?
Yes, it can. Fresh, modern-looking windows improve curb appeal, which can make your home more attractive to buyers if you’re planning to sell.
Can I spray UPVC windows in winter?
Most professionals prefer to work in dry, mild conditions. Very cold or wet weather can affect how the paint dries and bonds. It’s best to book the job for spring, summer, or early autumn if you can.
