How to Paint PVC Trim? Best Paints, Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

PVC trim is used in many homes and buildings in Maudand construction projects because it can be molded and shaped like wood. It doesn’t chip, crack, and is resistant to bending. The best part is that it doesn’t rot. Also, it isn’t prone to insect infestation. PVC trim also doesn’t absorb moisture, which makes it suitable for all seasons. Hence, it can be used for homes and buildings in humid areas.

However, homeowners often wonder whether or not to paint PVC trim. The answer is you should paint PVC trim. But, it is important to know all about painting a trim. In this blog, we have discussed the paint options, the steps to paint the trim, and the mistakes to avoid. So, read to know more.

Can PVC Trim Be Painted?

Yes, PVC trim can be painted. But not all trims need to be painted. Some PVCs, such as Extruded Cellular PVC, do not need to be painted as their pores are not shown externally. You can leave it as it is, and there won’t be any adverse effect on it. However, the Milled Cellular PVC trim needs to be painted, as it is porous from the inside out when cut into profiles. Painting is essential to seal the exposed pores to prevent dirt and grime accumulation or buildup.

However, painting PVC trim can be a challenging job. This is because of its low surface energy (SE). So, to ensure the paint sticks to the surface, PVC has to be treated to raise its SE above the SE of water. Here are two things that you can do to raise the SE of the PVC trim to paint it -

• Sand the surface lightly, which removes the wax and creates more area for water to wet out.

• Wipe the surface with acetone to make the surface porous to ensure the painting sticks properly. It also raises the SE of PVC.

For paint, try using a mix of acrylic and polyurethane formulated with specialized UV additives that reduce the SE of the PVC. The UV additive also ensures that paint does not absorb heat and prevents warping. It is recommended to use paints developed specifically for PVC trims. They are always tested to match each PVC surface for proper adhesive.

So, in short, PVC trims can be painted to enhance the beauty of the structure and also to complement the doors and windows. But, they need proper prepping and correct paint, especially made for PVC materials. This helps to ensure the paint sticks to the surface.

Choosing the Right Paint for PVC Trim

It’s important to choose the correct coating for PVC trim. The PVC surface is non-porous and slick, requiring a specific type of paint that sticks to it. If you’re opting for a light color with a light reflective value (LRV 57 and above), use a high-quality 100% acrylic blend paint. For darker colors of LRV of 56 or lower, choose approved solar reflective coating, such as Benjamin Moore color or Sherwin-Williams Vinylsafe. These colors prevent heat distortion, warping, and buckling.

Here’s a small guideline to choose the paint for PVC trims -

How to Paint PVC Trim?

Here is a step-by-step process to paint the PVC trim -

• Prepare the surface by washing it with a mild cleanser and water. This ensures the paint properly adheres to the surface.

• Sand the trim if it has a glossy surface with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) to improve adhesion. Ensure not to over sand, as it may damage the material.

• Though primer is usually not required for PVC trim, some paint manufacturers recommend a bonding primer.

• Paint the surface with 100 percent acrylic latex paint. It is recommended to only paint after installation. This prevents the hassle of touchups from fasteners and cutting marks.

• Paints on the PVC dries up quickly. However, curing may take up to 30 days. Allow the paint to dry up and cure properly before pressure washing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Be mindful of all the steps while painting PVC. This is because even a small mistake can lead to peeling of the paint. Here are a few mistakes you need to avoid :

• Avoid using standard latex or oil-based paints, as they don’t bond well with PVC and may start peeling or cracking.

• Don’t skip the prepping part, as grease, dirt, and dust on PVC trim can result in uneven coverage. Also, paint does not stick to greasy surfaces.

• Always follow LRV guidelines. This means dark colors can cause the PVC to expand and contract as these colors absorb heat. So, if you’re using dark colors (LRV 56 or lower), use solar reflective paint. It prevents warping and ensures the integrity of the trim.

Conclusion

PVC trim can be painted, but it should be done with a light color that is 100 percent acrylic latex and reflects the sun’s heat. Though PVC usually doesn’t require painting, doing so boosts its durability and enhances the home’s appeal.