Can You Paint Storm Windows?
- Wood-framed storm windows can be painted as frequently as needed. Be sure you use an exterior-grade exterior paint (latex should work fine). A good time to paint is in the fall, when the windows are installed.
You will need to clean the wood part of the window (might as well clean the glass also, while you are at it) and spot-prime any bare spots before adding the top coat. The final paint application should cover the frame completely to ensure a nice look and good protection against the weather. If glazing is used to hold the glass panes in place, be sure that this material is in good order and that there are no gaps in the coverage. Use a polyester trim brush with an angled cut to do the painting. - Metal storms can be cleaned and painted from time to time, but since the surface is metal, you will probably want to use spray paint instead of doing the work by hand with a paintbrush. If bare metal is showing, you will need a metal primer as well.
When you paint, be sure to tape off the glass and weather stripping to protect them from overspray. If there is any work that needs to be done on the weather stripping, it is best to take the window back to the place of purchase or to a qualified window mechanic. - Make sure the storm windows are stored in a dry and well-ventilated place when they are not in use. Having mold growth occur on your window coverings during the hot summer months, when they are not in use, will only add to your workload come the fall, for you will have to remove the growth before you install the windows. A good idea is to set the windows on two pieces of wood (2-by-4s are ideal) to make certain that air circulates underneath them. Never set the windows directly on concrete or an earthen floor.
