Costs of painting window frames
Costs of painting window frames 2026
Painting window frames costs on average between €40 and €150 per frame, depending on the type of frame, the condition of the woodwork and whether it concerns interior or exterior frames. Painting window frames involves applying a protective and decorative layer of paint to window frames, which is essential to prevent wood rot and keep your home looking well-maintained. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of painting window frames and what to look out for when planning this task.
How much does it cost to paint window frames?
Painting window frames costs on average between €40 and €150 per frame. Interior frames are generally cheaper because the work is simpler and less weather-resistant material is needed. Exterior frames require more preparatory work and higher-quality paint that can withstand rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations.
Average costs for painting window frames
Type of frame | Costs per frame |
|---|---|
Painting exterior frames | €50 to €150 |
Painting interior frames | €40 to €75 |
The prices in the table are project prices per frame, including labour and materials. For exterior frames, the price is higher because this job requires more preparation time and special exterior paint.
Costs are based on standard window frames in reasonable condition. Frames that first need to be repaired or sanded take more time and increase the price. For painting work on frames in homes older than two years, the reduced VAT rate of 9% applies. Please note: for replacement or repair of frames, 21% VAT applies.
Window frame painting costs per type
The costs for painting window frames mainly depend on whether you are having interior or exterior frames painted. Exterior frames require more preparatory work and weather-resistant paint, making the price higher than for interior frames.
Type of frame | Costs per frame |
|---|---|
Painting interior frames | €40 to €75 |
Painting exterior frames | €50 to €150 |
Price-determining factors for painting window frames
The costs for painting window frames vary per situation. Several factors determine how much time and material are needed, and thus the final price. Below you can read which aspects have the greatest influence on what you pay.
Condition of the frame
Frames in poor condition require more preparation work. Peeling paint must be completely removed by sanding. Cracks and fissures must first be filled. Wood rot requires extra attention: the affected wood must be cut away and filled with wood rot filler before painting can take place. This preparatory work costs extra hours, which increases the price.
Complexity and design
Flat frames are quick and easy to paint. Frames with relief, panels, or decorative mouldings require more precision work and longer painting time. Every detail must be finished separately, which increases labour hours. The more design elements, the higher the costs for painting exterior frames.
Frame material type
Wooden frames absorb paint well and are the easiest to treat. Aluminium and plastic frames first require a special primer to make adhesion possible. This extra pre-treatment costs time and material, making the costs to have window frames painted higher.
Type of paint and number of layers
Opaque paint is sufficient for standard wooden frames. Aluminium and plastic first require a primer coat. Extra protective layers such as stain or lacquer increase material costs and the required labour time. More layers mean more drying and extra application time.
Height and accessibility
Frames on the ground floor are accessible without extra tools. Frames on higher floors require scaffolding or a ladder. Scaffolding placement involves rental costs, which are not always standard in a quote. This increases the total costs.
Number of frames
More frames mean a higher total price, but the price per frame often drops with larger quantities. A professional can work more efficiently by spreading materials and preparation time over multiple frames. Collaborating with neighbours for a larger job can lead to an advantage.
Location indoor or outdoor
Interior frames are cheaper to paint. The work is simpler and requires less weather-resistant paint. Exterior frames must be protected against rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations, which requires higher-quality material and more preparation time.
Urgency and planning
Planned work is more economical than urgent jobs. In case of urgency, the professional must adjust their planning and reschedule other tasks. This flexibility involves extra costs. Plan your task in advance for the lowest price.
Weekend or weekdays
Work on the weekend costs more due to surcharges. Working on weekdays is standard and more economical. If you are flexible with timing, choose a working day.
Region
In large cities, the costs to have window frames painted are often higher than in rural areas. This is due to higher demand for painters and higher labour costs in urban environments.
Maintenance cycle and timing
Interior frames need to be painted on average once every seven years. Exterior frames made of softwood require maintenance every two years, hardwood every five years. Addressing small problems early is more economical than repairing major damage. Look out for signs such as cracks, loose paint, bubbles, gaps, and damp spots.
Preparation and accessibility
Ensure the workplace is clear and accessible. Preparing yourself by sanding, cleaning, or taping can save labour hours. The less preparatory work the professional has to do, the lower the costs.
Additional costs and surcharges
Extra costs when painting window frames depend on the situation. At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges.
Urgency surcharge: For urgent tasks, a surcharge often applies because the professional must adjust their planning
Weekend surcharge: Work during the weekend is more expensive than on weekdays
Additional work due to wood rot: If unexpected wood rot is discovered, it must be repaired first, which results in significant extra costs
Scaffolding costs: For frames on higher floors, scaffolding costs may apply; ask in advance if this is included
Extra paint layers: Sometimes more layers are needed, for example when transitioning from dark to light colours
Replacement instead of repair: In case of serious damage, replacement can be more economical than professional repair; replacement costs between €2,000 and €4,000 per frame
How does the professional work when painting window frames?
Painting window frames follows a fixed sequence to ensure a durable and neat result.
The professional inspects the frames for wood rot and damage. Affected wood is cut away with a chisel until healthy wood is visible, after which holes are filled with wood rot filler.
The frames are degreased with St. Marc or ammonia water to remove grease and dirt for better paint adhesion.
Loose paint flakes and peeling paint are removed with a paint scraper. For severely damaged paint layers, the professional uses an electric sander.
The frames are sanded with 80-100 grit sandpaper, followed by 120-180 grit for a smooth surface. All dust is removed with a dry cloth.
Imperfections are puttied and joints are sealed for a waterproof finish.
On bare spots and with aluminium or plastic frames, primer is applied as an adhesive layer. After drying, it is lightly sanded.
Corners and edges are painted with a brush. Larger flat parts are painted with a roller from top to bottom for even distribution. After drying, the second layer of paint follows in the same manner. The task takes on average 1-2 hours per frame.
How can you save on painting window frames?
There are several ways to lower the costs of painting window frames without sacrificing quality.
Address cracks early: Repairing small problems such as cracks and peeling paint early prevents costly wood rot repairs later.
Prepare yourself: Sanding, cleaning, taping, and doing small repairs yourself saves labour hours.
Plan smartly: Book on weekdays, not as an urgent task, and avoid the weekend to prevent surcharges. Paint between April and October for optimal weather conditions.
Ask for winter discount: Between November and March, some painters offer 10-20% discount because it is quieter.
Combine tasks: Have multiple frames painted at once or combine with other painting tasks such as doors or ceilings. The price per component decreases as a result.
Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after the completion of the task.
Common problems with window frames
Problems with window frames have various causes, from moisture penetration to aging of the paint layer.
Wood rot
Wood rot is caused by moisture penetrating the wood, especially with poorly maintained frames. You can recognise it by soft, discoloured, or crumbly wood. Ignoring it leads to structural damage making repair or replacement necessary.
Peeling paint
Peeling paint is caused by poor preparation, wrong paint, or moisture behind the paint layer. Recognisable signs are bubbles and loose paint flakes. Ignoring it allows moisture to enter the wood, which increases costs due to extra preparation work.
Cracks and fissures
Cracks occur due to shrinkage, expansion, or aging of the paint. You see fine lines in the paint layer. Ignoring it allows moisture in, which can cause wood rot and result in paying more later.
Find the best professional for painting window frames
A reliable painter prevents costly problems such as peeling paint and wood rot.
No call-out charges: At Zoofy you never pay call-out charges, regardless of where you live.
Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what the task costs, without surprises afterwards.
Quick booking without hassle: Book a professional directly without first requesting multiple quotes.
Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the work is finished, never in advance.
Reliable, vetted professionals: All affiliated painters are thoroughly screened for quality and reliability.
Best painter from your area: At Zoofy you can easily find an experienced painter for painting your window frames at transparent prices.
Frequently asked questions about painting window frames
What does it cost to paint 10 window frames?
Painting 10 window frames costs on average between €400 and €1,500, depending on whether they are interior or exterior frames and what condition they are in. Exterior frames are more expensive due to extra preparation work and weather-resistant paint. With larger quantities, the price per frame often drops.
What does a painter charge per window frame?
A painter charges on average between €40 and €150 per frame. Interior frames cost €40 to €75, while exterior frames cost between €50 and €150. The costs vary by type of frame, preparation work, and material type.
How long does a painter take per window frame?
A professional takes on average 1-2 hours per frame, excluding drying time. Each layer of paint needs 6-12 hours of drying time before the next layer can be applied. Complex frames with relief or panels require more time.
What does a painter charge per hour in 2025?
A painter charges between €40 and €60 per hour, depending on the region and complexity of the task. At Zoofy you get a fixed price per frame, so you know in advance what you pay without surprises.
How often should I paint my window frames?
Interior frames should be painted on average once every seven years. Exterior frames made of softwood require maintenance every two years, while hardwood every five years suffices. Regular maintenance prevents wood rot and keeps costs lower.
What is the best season to paint window frames?
Paint window frames between April and October for optimal results. Avoid temperatures that are too cold, which cause freezing, weather that is too hot, which causes paint to dry too quickly with streaks, and high humidity, which prolongs drying time.
Can I paint over the old paint layer?
Yes, if the old paint is in good condition without cracks or peeling. Peeling or cracking paint must first be completely removed by sanding to guarantee good adhesion.
Do I need primer?
Yes, primer is needed for bare frames, repaired spots, transitions from dark to light, and always for aluminium and plastic frames. Primer ensures better adhesion of the top coat.
Why are exterior frames more expensive to paint?
Exterior frames require more preparation, weather-resistant paint, and often multiple layers for optimal protection against rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations. This significantly increases costs.
When is replacement more economical than painting?
In case of serious wood rot, sagged frames, or when repair costs approach replacement costs, replacement is more economical. Replacement costs between €2,000 and €4,000 per frame. A professional can assess this in advance.
Book a professional for painting window frames
Ready to have your window frames painted? At Zoofy you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see in advance exactly what it costs, and Zoofy pairs you with a reliable professional who has been vetted. Payment is made only when the work is finished. Book a professional directly.