Yes. It is possible to paint on PVC trim. This is also true for other plastic materials. The appearance of PVC trim is usually white from the manufacturer.
The color is quite standard unless you specifically order a color you prefer for the purpose at hand.
The cheaper store-bought PVC, white, may not be what you had in mind for your little do-it-yourself project, but changing the color through paint might help. Below I shall discuss what it entails in painting your PVC trim.
We shall discuss:-
- Safety Procedures
- The use of PVC
- Paints to Use
- How to paint PVC
- What to Avoid
Safety
If you have decided to change the color of your PVC, you have already decided on the color choice. Working with paint is dangerous as it has fumes.
Protect yourself from these effects by wearing protective clothing like gloves for your hand and gas masks to prevent you from breathing the fumes and dust particles.
Using PVC
PVC is an alternative to using wood trim for particular finishes to buildings. Wood can get infested with insects if it stays exposed too long and may also rot when exposed to moisture and natural elements.
Painted wood also does not last long and needs to be redone every couple of months. PVC is made of plastic, thus lasts longer, is resistant to moisture, and takes longer to rot or be affected by natural elements.
Type of Paint
There are specific paints designed for PVC trims. This may improve the appearance of PVC and help it match the building or project it has been used on.
Painting can also restore old PVC and allow it to be reused, but it is more challenging to paint old PVC. Using epoxy paints is more common, but they produce fumes that may cause dizziness.
Thus it is good to paint outside or wear a gas mask inside and ensure windows are open for better ventilation.
100% Acrylic latex paints are also suitable for PVC as they adhere to the surface, but ensure you clean and sand the PVC surface for better results.
Paint may take longer to cure, depending on the humidity. Ranging from a couple of days in warm dryer conditions to a little longer in cold and moist conditions.
Spray paints are also effective. Painted PVC is easier to maintain than wood. It lasts longer and can be cleaned and polished easily to keep it bright and shiny.
How to Paint
As a lover of doing things myself and occasionally with my kids, I have encountered a few bumps. Peeling paint and even very heavy coats of paint on very uneven surfaces.
Some came out pieces of art in my view, but some I recycle. Putting color on PVC is a task that should be done carefully. On trim, especially as it is going to be visible.
Cleaning the PVC and letting it dry after sanding to ensure the surface is smooth. Use a wet cloth to remove the dust particles that may cause uneven paint distribution.
Apply the primer and let it dry before applying the first coat of paint. This is done roughly around the surface to cover the whole material.
Apply the second coat as smoothly as possible in one direction. This makes the paintwork consistent and looks elegant when completed. A brush ensures all strokes are in the same direction and not tied around the surface.
When done, allow the paint to cure for a while as it may take longer to dry depending on the conditions.
At least seven days to let it dry completely for a longer-lasting finish and durable paint. Enquire for specific paints at the store.
What to Avoid
As discussed, paint produces dangerous fumes that may harm individuals. As kids love playing with the paint, ensure they are well dressed and cover their skin.
When done indoors, ensure gas masks, and proper ventilation is available, but I would suggest painting outside somewhere with wind or with a lot of open space.
Avoid latex-based paints, water-based, and non-plastic paints as they corrode over time and may not adhere to PVC.
As discussed, Yes, it is possible to paint PVC trim. This is achieved through different methods and specific paints. With multiple uses for PVC, it has become a favorite not for constructors but also for persons who love DIY projects.
Adding some color to look different is part of the job as this requires a little imagination. With a fresh coat of paint on your PVC, your home will feel brighter and enlivened. We have discussed:-
- Safety Procedures
- The use of PVC
- Paints to Use
- How to paint PVC
- What to Avoid
Now it is up to you to finish the rest.
