Painting around windows and doors can be challenging, and can really make or break the final outcome of your project. However, using the right techniques can help you achieve professional-grade results and improve the look of your space. From a simple colour refresh to an updated trim, this guide will show you how to paint your windows and doors like the painting company pros.

Preparation Is Key

Preparing your workspace before a painting project can improve your desired finish. Proper prep provides a clean, professional-looking workspace protected from accidental spills and uneven paint application. With the proper prep, you can be confident in achieving a clean and polished finish.

Gather Your Supplies

Confirm you have the correct supplies before tackling your project. You will need:

Painter’s tape
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
Paintbrushes and rollers
Paint and Primer
Putty knife and spackle
Sandpaper
Ladder (if required)
Clean cloths for wiping extra paint

Protect Your Space

The key to achieving ideal results with your windows and doors is to protect your floor by covering it with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to catch drips and spills. Use painter’s tape to mask edges and areas you don’t want painted. Be sure to secure the tape tightly to prevent paint from bleeding underneath.

Painting Windows

Tape The Window Frames

Carefully apply painter’s tape around the edges of the window frame so it is between the glass and the surrounding wall, pressing any air bubbles out, leaving zero gaps, and protecting areas where you don’t want paint. The result is a clean, defined edge while avoiding mess.

Paint The Trim

Begin painting your trim by selecting a fine-tipped brush to carefully paint along the outer edges where the trim meets the wall. Pay attention to corners and intricate details, using your brush to handle hard-to-reach places.

Paint The Wall

Once the trim is completely dry, use a roller to spread paint to the surrounding wall. Start from the top and work down in overlapping strokes to avoid visible lines. Allow the paint to dry completely before deciding if a second coat is needed.

Painting Doors

Tape The Door Frames

Apply painter’s tape around your doorframe, providing an even application along the edges where the frame meets the wall. Press the tape firmly into the area to create a tight seal.

Paint The Door Trim and Frame

Begin by using a small angled brush and dipping it in your paint. Be careful not to oversaturate the brush, and carefully paint along the edges where the trim and wall connect so you cover every crevice and corner with a neat, even coat.

Paint The Door

If you want to paint your door, removing and painting it on a horizontal surface is easier than painting it upright, simplifying the process and avoiding uneven application. Give plenty of drying time between coats.

Cleanup and Final Touches

Remove Tape

When everything has completely dried, it’s time to remove your painter’s tape. Peel the tape away gently, starting from one corner and pulling away slowly. Taking time when removing your tape will decrease the risk of messing up your newly painted edges.

Inspect & Touch Up

With the paint dry and the tape removed, you can fully inspect your handiwork. Look for missed or uneven spots and areas where paint may have bled. If you see any imperfections, use a small brush and damp cloth to clean up your work and provide a seamless finish.

Clean Your Tools

Clean them thoroughly after each use to maintain their longevity. To wash out latex or acrylic paint, rinse your brushes and rollers under warm water with a bit of dish soap, focusing on working the soap into the brush bristles to break down the paint. For tools used with oil-based paints, clean with a solvent like mineral spirits or turpentine, followed by soap and water to remove any remaining paint.