How Much Does Window Painting Cost in 2024?

If it has been a long since you installed your windows, they might look worn out. Sun exposure and other abiotic variables can cause paint fading, making the units appear dull and outdated. You may also notice scratches, marks, or areas with chipping paint. Not only do all these things affect your home’s aesthetic, but they also create an entryway for structural problems. If you want to ward off big-ticket repairs and replacements, give your windows a lick of paint. This won’t break the bank but allow you to prevent further damage while creating a fresh, clean look. 

How much does it cost to paint exterior windows? Experienced contractors can charge anywhere from $1,50 to $3,75 per linear foot. Thus, if you need to paint a standard-sized window, you should be ready to pay from $110 to $950, both labor and materials included.

Navigating Window Painting Pricing: An Expert Overview of Costs and Cost-Formation Factors

Many homeowners consider repainting their windows once they renovate their homes and discover that old units don’t match the new aesthetics. Does it ring a bell? If you have found yourself in their shoes, it’s crucial to discover aspects that affect how much to paint the windows in your area. 

It is not a big deal if you don’t know any reliable window painters, as MyHomeQuote is always here for you. We can help you locate specialists in your neighborhood who can make any ideas come true. Fill in the form below to get the ball rolling.

The Average Cost to Have Exterior Windows Painted

Knowing your house’s type of exterior is essential when you are about to paint outdoor window frames. Otherwise, the process can turn into an intimidating scenario from square one. Thus, the cost to paint exterior windows can vary greatly depending on the type of primer and paint used, the job’s complexity, window size, and your location. Materials alone can set you back from $125 to $475, so add labor costs from $33 to $100, and your expenses can land between $150 to $555 per window. Some contractors charge per linear foot from $2 to $4,50.  

The Average Cost to Have Interior Windows Painted 

You may be surprised to discover that painting units from inside is often costlier, as the house has more linear feet of interior trim, and it may take contractors longer to complete the project. On average, seasoned specialists charge between $1,75 to $5 per square foot. However, the cost to paint interior windows can fluctuate between various companies, as they all have different operation expenses. For a standard-size window, you can expect to pay between $200 to $670 per window.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Window Painting 

Your home makeover can hardly be picture-perfect without a window refresh. Thus, you may make up your mind to change the units’ color and hide minor defects. However, even such a small-scale project as painting can lead you down a rabbit hole if you overlook factors shaping the total cost to paint windows. The key aspects are specified below. 

Window Size

You can find windows of various sizes throughout a standard American house. The cost can be higher or lower as they all will naturally require different time, effort, and materials to complete the painting project. While large units are known for gobbling up a lot of money, many small windows can do the same due to the complexity and time needed to paint each.

Window Type

The style and design of your units can also affect your expenses because some models are easier to paint than others. For instance, you will have to fork out more for painting complex, multi-pane windows than their flat counterparts. And how much does it cost to paint a window with intricate designs or unusual shapes? Considering the special precision and time required, the price may be doubled. 

Frame Material

The material your window frame is made of defines whether preparation is required before painting. While vinyl (PVC) units offer the luxury of being an effortless paint job, wood ones can make contractors pull out all the stops. On top of that, you may have to cover the cost of additional materials like sealers and primers. 

Frame Condition

If the frames have signs of damage or wear and tear, contractors will have to repair or sand them first. Thus, the cost to paint a window will be increased by additional services involved. Moreover, hard-to-reach units may incur extra expenses due to the need for specialized equipment.

Paint Color and Quality

The market is chock-full of different quality paints in all possible colors. If you select weather-resistant premium paint, it may last longer but cost you more. Lighter paint hues may require multiple layers to ensure an even and consistent surface, while dark colors may cover up in a few coats or less. 

Additional Services

The final cost of having your windows painted can go beyond your expectations in the most overwhelming way. Contractors often can’t just cover up your window frames with a layer of paint to make them look new. After all, painting is meant to improve your unit’s appearance and prolong its lifespan. That’s why professional restoration services may be required. 

With MyHomeQuote, you can pinpoint the best window contractors in your area in a timely fashion and free of charge. Yes, you’ve got that correctly – you won’t pay a penny. Everything you need to do is complete the questionnaire below, specifying your project details and region. 

The list of additional services you may need can include:

• Preparing the window frames. Whatever unit you have, contractors must clean the frame before covering it up. In the case of wood windows, the process may also include removing old paint and applying a primer for better coating adhesion. Each of these steps can be reflected in the window painting prices.
• Repair window frames. Cracks and other visible surface damage must be fixed to extend your window’s service life, eliminating water damage or insect infestation. Depending on the issue occurred, various techniques and treatments can be used. Even though this can increase the window painting cost, you can be sure your units are aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Scraping old paint. While owners of vinyl windows can skip this service, those with aluminum or wood units can’t do without it. Even though this is a tedious and time-consuming process, it allows for achieving a smooth surface and ultimate final result. 
• Window sealing. A repainting window project can be ideal for improving your home insulation and lowering power bills. Proper sealing will prevent drafts and leaks.

Labor Cost to Paint Windows

As labor rates vary across the country, professionals can charge differently in the western and eastern states. Your expenditures can also hinge on the job complexity and type (and condition) of the windows you have. On average, you can expect to pay from $28 to $100 per hour. Please note that a standard-sized window usually takes 1-2 hours to paint, including prep time, priming, and painting. 

How Much Does Painting Window Frames Cost?

If you want to extend the lifespan of your windows, keeping them like brand-new ones years after installation, a valuable approach is to refresh the paint on the frames every few years. The protective paint layer boosts the frame material strength and integrity and safeguards your home from potential threats such as moisture, insects, and other hazards.

Depending on the selected paint type and the current window frame condition, size, and material, homeowners can expect to spend from $2,30 to $4,50 per linear foot for both material and labor. The total window frame painting cost stays in the range of $140 - $430, excluding additional adjustments or repairs that might be required in the project course. The actual cost of the work also varies by location, with fees typically being higher in high-income urban regions. 

Window Frame Painting Cost by Material

The cost of painting window frames is mainly influenced by the type of material used. Let us explore how the different window frame materials impact the overall painting cost.

Wooden Window Painting Cost

Wooden window frames offer a timeless charm and can be freshly coated or re-painted using a variety of paints. Non-painted frames require more preparation but allow more versatility in choosing a paint type. Contractors sand and prime them before applying the first layer of paint, resulting in higher spending on labor. On the other hand, previously painted frames may only need minimal spot-priming, which makes them cheaper to paint. On average, wooden window painting costs range from $95 to $175 for units that have not been previously painted and from $55 to $130 for previously painted ones.

Vinyl Window Painting Cost 

Painting vinyl windows, while a seemingly simple task, can be a tricky process due to the specific properties of the material. Vinyl has a non-porous structure that makes the paint adhere poorly. When the paint does not properly bond to the surface, it can lead to peeling, cracking, or blistering over time. Due to these factors, if homeowners are not satisfied with the color of their vinyl windows, manufacturers often recommend replacing them rather than attempting to paint them.

The national average cost of painting vinyl windows ranges from $65 to $140 per unit, depending on the window style, size, and local labor rates.

Aluminum Windows Painting Cost 

Painting aluminum window frames is a cost-effective option for refreshing a building’s appearance or updating it to match a new design element. Ideal for their durability and lightweight structure, aluminum frames require less maintenance than wood, but over time, exposure to the elements and regular wear can necessitate a fresh paint job. 

Before painting, the aluminum frame needs to be cleaned and sanded to remove old paint. If the frame has any damage, it may need to be repaired before a new coat of paint can be applied. Priming is another essential step, ensuring the paint adheres correctly and has a smooth finish. 

The national average cost to paint aluminum window frames ranges from $155 to $1,500, depending on the window size, style, condition, and type of paint used. The cost of powder coating, a process where a colored powder is applied to aluminum frames and then heated in an oven to create a durable finish, ranges from $700 to $1,500, depending on the size of the window.