The paints we use are specially formulated to stick to ‘bare’ or ‘naked’ uPVC which eliminates the need to sand it before painting.
We can’t speak for other types of paint, but we use solvent-based paints which bond with the uPVC on a molecular level.
uPVC will, however, need sanding for paints that are held on by adhesion. This is how standard plastic paints work: the paint is applied to the uPVC and bonds with the roughed edge the grit created by filling it. This method works at first but is prone to premature wear which manifests as flaking and bubbling.
The reason we don’t need to sand uPVC before painting it is that our paints are chemically structured to penetrate the first layer of the UPVC. This means you can’t peel the first layer away or rub it off (at least, not without great effort). Subsequent paint layers then bond with one another to create a durable finish.
Another advantage of the paints we use is they act as the primer on the first coat. So, not only do we not need to sand UPVC before painting it, we don’t need to apply a primer either which simplifies our workflow and reduces the cost to you.
We are so confident of the durability of our paint that we provide a 10-year guarantee against defects and faulty workmanship.
Here’s a summary of everything you need to know about UPVC and sanding:
- Sanding is necessary for paints that bond via adhesion. For paints that bond with uPVC on a molecular level, sanding is not required and is, in fact, a pointless exercise.
- You will find the paints that meet this criteria are always solvent-based. This is necessary to formulate the correct chemical structure.
- In addition to no sanding, the paints we use (solvent-based) act as the primer on the first coat, so no dedicated primer is needed.
Hopefully, this answers all your questions.
If not, we’re here to help. Feel free to call us on 0800 037 0658 for information. You might also find our FAQ page most helpful.
