Repainting your window frames is one of the quickest and most effective ways to refresh your home’s appearance. Whether you’re dealing with old flaking paint, sun damage, or simply changing colour for a modern look, a good repaint can protect the timber or aluminium underneath and boost both street appeal and property value. The job might seem fiddly, but with the right gear, preparation, and patience, it’s absolutely something you can DIY and save a bit of cash.
Approximate Costs in Australia
Prices vary depending on materials, condition of the frames, and whether you’re doing timber, aluminium, or PVC. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Item | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Sandpaper / sanding sponge | $10–$25 |
| Electric sander (optional) | $50–$150 |
| Primer / Undercoat | $25–$55 per litre |
| Exterior paint | $35–$80 per litre |
| Painter’s tape | $6–$12 |
| Drop sheets | $5–$20 |
| Brushes & mini rollers | $10–$40 |
| Filler / putty | $10–$30 |
| Total DIY cost (per home) | approx. $120–$350 |
Professional painters may charge $25–$60 per linear metre or $300–$1,500+ depending on the number of windows, height, materials, repairs and paint type.
Important Considerations Before Starting
- Check weather conditions – Ideal temperature: 10–30°C, with low wind and no rain for 24–48 hours.
- Identify your frame material – Timber, aluminium, or PVC require different primers.
- Deal with lead paint – Homes built before 1990 might contain lead; wear a mask and consider professional testing.
- Repair before painting – Filling, patching, gap sealing, and sanding should be done properly to avoid future cracking.
- Decide on the finish – Satin and semi-gloss are the most common as they’re durable and easy to clean.
- Remove or mask obstacles – Curtains, blinds, handles, latches, flyscreens.
- Ensure ventilation – Keep windows slightly open while drying.
Recommended Materials & Tools
Tools
- Sandpaper grits 80, 120, 240
- Sanding block or orbital sander
- Small angled brush + mini roller
- Filling knife + gap gun
- Painter’s masking tape (low-tack)
- Drop sheets & cleaning cloths
Paint & Primer Types
| Frame Type | Primer Needed | Paint Type |
|---|---|---|
| Timber | Oil-based or stain-blocking primer | Exterior acrylic or enamel |
| Aluminium | Etch primer | Acrylic or enamel |
| PVC | Plastic-bonding primer | Acrylic |
Best and Most Common Paint Brands in Australia
Premium Quality
- Dulux Weathershield
- Taubmans All Weather
- Haymes Ultra Premium Exterior
Good Value / Budget-Friendly
- British Paints Exterior
- Accent Paints (Bunnings)
- Solver Trade
Recommended Primers
- Dulux 1 Step Prep
- Taubmans 3-in-1
- Rust-Oleum Universal Bonding Primer (for aluminium & PVC)
Step-by-Step DIY Process
Step 1 – Preparation & Cleaning
Clean frames with mild soap and water, remove mould and dust, and let dry. For greasy surfaces, use sugar soap.
Step 2 – Sanding
Use 80–120 grit to remove flaking paint or gloss, then finish with 240 grit for smoothness. Clean dust thoroughly.
Step 3 – Repairs
Apply timber filler or polyfiller to cracks or dents, allow to dry, then sand again. Use paintable gap sealant if needed.
Step 4 – Masking
Tape around the glass, wall, hinges, and handles using quality low-tack painter’s tape.
Step 5 – Priming
Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a brush for corners and a mini roller for flat areas. Let dry completely.
Step 6 – Painting
Apply first coat, allow to dry (4–8 hours), lightly sand with 240 grit, then apply the second coat. A third coat is optional for harsh weather areas.
How to Get a Professional Result
- Avoid overloading brush or roller
- Paint in long strokes following frame direction
- Avoid painting in direct heat or wind
- Remove tape before paint fully dries
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Skipping primer | Leads to peeling and poor adhesion |
| Painting in direct sunlight | Causes bubbles & streaks |
| Thick coats | Drips and uneven drying |
| Not sanding | Paint won’t bond well |
| Using indoor paint outside | UV damage |
Extra Tips
- Choose UV-resistant exterior paints for Australia
- Avoid very dark colours on timber due to heat absorption
- Use low-VOC paints for indoor health safety
- For aluminium, use proper etch primer to guarantee adhesion
Safety Notes
Wear gloves, goggles, and a dust mask, especially when sanding. If working on higher floors, use secure and stable ladders or scaffolding. Dispose of sanding dust and old paint according to local council guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Repainting your window frames is a highly cost-effective DIY project that can give your home a fresh, modern appearance. With proper prep, the right products, and patience, you can achieve a professional-looking finish and protect your windows from future damage. Whether restoring an older house or updating a newer build, a fresh coat of paint is a smart investment that improves aesthetics and durability.
