Painting PVC Window Boxes
Painting Instructions
for Hooks & Lattice Cellular Composite PVC Window Boxes
Overview/General
Cellular Composite PVC does not require painting for protection or longevity. While the product looks and feels like real wood, there are no wood properties in its construction. As a result, moisture is neither retained nor attracted which would otherwise cause peeling or cracking. Our PVC accepts paint willingly. Should you choose to change the color from the bright white we offer simply follow the instructions below.
1. For All Colors...
Use an acrylic latex paint with a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 55 or higher. The darker your color, the more important it is to get a paint with a special formulation that provides a higher LRV.
2. Follow the paint manufacturer's recommendations to apply.
Cellular Composite PVC is the material of choice for most of todays window and roof trim. As a result, painting instructions are simple and straight-forward. Individual manufacturers have different suggestions and we recommend you follow their guidance for the greatest longevity and to maximize the time between having to repaint. Note: Paint life is normally longer on cellular PVC than wood due to the absence of moisture in the material.
4. Clean the surfaces thoroughly....
All PVC surfaces must be clean, dry and free of any foreign material such as dirt, oil, grease or other contaminants that may come from storage, handling or installation prior to painting. A cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol is a good way to remove stubborn blemishes and clean water works well for ordinary smudges.
5. Paint....
Cellular composite PVC does not need a primer. Primers are typically used to seal the paint from absorbing into the material's surface. Since Cellular PVC won't accept moisture, an easy and even coat is all that is required. The number of coats is up to you!
6. Allow to dry...
Since our composite PVC does not absorb paint, your paint will take longer to dry than if you were painting wood. Generally paint will be dry to the touch quickly but may take up to 10 days to fully cure. In climates with severe humidity, the time may be longer.
