Cost to Paint uPVC Windows and Doors in the UK

Typical UK costs for painting or spraying uPVC windows, doors and conservatories, what affects the price and how long a painted finish can last.

Painting uPVC is a popular alternative to replacing tired white windows, especially when you want a new colour such as anthracite grey or black. Prices vary between brushed and sprayed finishes, and there are important differences in durability.

This article explains typical costs and what to check before you commit.

Typical price ranges

Costs depend on region, number of units and access. London and the South East are usually higher. As a rough guide:

Item	Typical range
Front door (one side)	£150 to £350
Front door (both sides)	£250 to £500
Standard window (one side)	£80 to £200
Whole house, 8 to 10 windows plus doors	£1,500 to £3,500
Conservatory frames	£1,000 to £2,500

Specialist sprayers may price per window frame, while decorators often use a day rate. Ask for a written, itemised price so you can compare.

What affects the price

Number of frames and sides

Painting only the outside is cheaper than both inside and outside. Choosing a different colour inside normally requires more masking and careful application around seals and hinges.

Access

Upper windows, conservatory roofs and tight spaces may need scaffold towers or extra equipment.

Condition

Dirty, chalky or scratched frames need cleaning and sanding first. Some older uPVC has degraded surfaces that hold paint less well.

Brush or spray

Spraying generally gives a more even finish but needs masking of glass, seals and surrounding brickwork. Brush and roller work is more affordable but may show more texture.

What good preparation involves

Deep clean and degrease, since dirt and oils prevent adhesion.
Light abrasion to key the surface.
Masking glass, rubber seals, handles and surrounding render.
Applying a primer made for plastics.
Two or more thin coats of a flexible exterior paint.
Time to cure before windows are closed tightly or cleaned.

For a DIY overview, see how to paint uPVC windows and doors.

How long will it last?

The lifespan depends on prep, product, aspect and wear. Sun-exposed frames and areas that are frequently touched, such as handles, are more likely to show wear first. Ask the provider how long they expect the finish to last and what maintenance is recommended. Treat any specific guarantee as something to confirm in writing from the provider.

Is painting uPVC worth it?

Painting can be good value if the frames are sound and you only want a colour change. If seals have failed, glass has misted or frames are warped, painting will not fix those problems. Replacement may be better in that case. Also consider your lease or freehold restrictions, and check with the local authority if your property is in a conservation area or listed.

Questions to ask

Is the paint designed for uPVC and for exterior use?
Will the inside and outside be done?
How do you protect glass and seals?
Is the quote per frame or total, and are door furniture and hinges included?
How long before the windows can be closed or cleaned?

Using Compito, you can describe the frames, send photos and compare offers, then message providers to confirm products and timing before you accept.

A worked example: a semi with eight windows and two doors

Consider a 1990s semi with eight white casement windows, a front door and a back door, all being changed to a dark grey on the outside only. A specialist might spend a day on prep and masking, a day on priming and spraying, and a half day on touching up and de-masking. A price in the £1,800 to £2,800 range is plausible in many regions, higher in London and the South East. Adding the inside faces typically adds noticeably more time, because the inside needs careful masking around seals, handles and blinds.

Brush, roller or spray

Method	Strengths	Limitations
Brush and roller	Cheaper, flexible	Visible brush marks if rushed
Spray	Smooth, even finish	More masking, weather sensitive
Mixed	Spray the bulk, hand finish details	Often the practical compromise

Common mistakes

Using ordinary woodwork paint. uPVC needs products designed for plastic, otherwise flaking is likely.
Painting in direct sun. Paint dries too quickly and can blister or leave marks.
Choosing a dark colour for south-facing frames without asking. Dark colours absorb heat, and frames can warm and expand; ask whether the system is suited.
Not allowing cure time. Closing windows too soon can stick the sash to the seal.
Painting handles and hinges. Hardware should be removed or masked, because painted moving parts wear quickly.

Leasehold flats, rentals and listed settings

Windows in a flat are often the freeholder's responsibility and subject to a uniform appearance. Always check the lease and any covenants. Renters should ask the landlord first. In a conservation area, changes of colour can sometimes need consent, so contact the local authority before booking.

Is the whole house worth doing at once?

Doing everything in a single visit keeps the colour consistent. If budget is tight, start with the front elevation, but plan to follow within a reasonable period because different batches and weathering can make a mismatch obvious.

Maintenance

Wipe frames with warm water and a mild cleaner, avoiding abrasive pads. Check annually for chips, especially at handles and corners, and touch up quickly so water does not get under the paint. Ask the provider for the product name and colour code so touch-ups match.

Frequently asked questions

Can you paint over white uPVC without removing it?

Yes, with the right preparation and primer. Painting over without keying and cleaning is the most common cause of peeling.

Will painted uPVC need repainting?

Eventually, as with any exterior paint. Touch-ups may be easier than a full redo if the paint system is flexible and in good condition.

Is it cheaper than replacing windows?

Typically yes, often by a large margin, but it does not improve insulation or fix faulty units.

Find painting providers near you

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