Yes, you can paint PVC moulding.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) moulding is a durable and low-maintenance material often used for interior and exterior trim. While it comes in standard colors, painting allows you to match it perfectly with your design scheme. Painting PVC moulding is a straightforward process, but following a few key steps ensures a long-lasting and professional finish.
Preparing PVC Moulding for Painting
Proper preparation is crucial for successful paint adhesion on PVC surfaces.
- Cleaning: Start by cleaning the moulding thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, grease, or mildew. A mild detergent and water solution usually works well. Rinse and let it dry completely.
- Scuffing the Surface: As noted in the reference, "Because some cellular PVC can have a high sheen, lightly scuff the surface to help improve paint adhesion." Use a fine-grit sandpaper (like 220-grit) or a sanding sponge to gently abrade the surface. This creates micro-scratches that the paint can grip onto. Wipe away the sanding dust.
Choosing the Right Paint
Selecting the appropriate type of paint is essential for durability and appearance on PVC.
- Paint Type: The reference states that priming isn't strictly necessary, but "the finish quality is greatly enhanced if you use a premium 100% acrylic latex paint for trim with a built-in primer." Acrylic latex paints are flexible and durable, making them ideal for trim that may experience minor expansion and contraction. Using a paint with a built-in primer saves a step and improves adhesion, especially on potentially slick surfaces.
- Color Selection: Choose your desired color. For exterior applications, ensure the paint is suitable for outdoor use and can withstand UV exposure and weather changes.
Application Tips
Follow these tips for a smooth application:
- Apply paint in thin, even coats.
- Allow each coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before applying the next.
- For the best finish, use a high-quality brush specifically designed for trim or a roller suitable for smooth surfaces.
By properly preparing the surface and using a quality acrylic latex paint, particularly one with a built-in primer as recommended, you can achieve a beautiful and durable painted finish on your PVC moulding.
