Why More Homes Choose To Spray UPVC Windows In Cardiff
UPVC windows are tough, practical, and built to last – but over time, they fade, discolour, or simply go out of fashion. In Cardiff, with its salty coastal air, strong sun, and damp winters, it’s no wonder so many people find their once-bright white frames turning dull and tired. The good news? You don’t need to rip them out. More and more homeowners are choosing to spray UPVC windows in Cardiff instead of replacing them – and the results speak for themselves.
Why Cardiff Homes Benefits from Spraying
The Cardiff climate is harsher on UPVC than people realise. South-facing homes in Cyncoed fade faster thanks to direct sun. In Cardiff Bay, salty winds speed up weathering. And in damp areas like Grangetown, mould and discolouration set in quicker.
Spraying tackles all of these issues by giving your windows a durable, UV-stable coating that not only refreshes the look but also extends their life. It’s a smarter choice than replacement, especially when the frames themselves are structurally sound.
The Process of Spraying UPVC Windows
Here’s how we approach spraying UPVC windows in Cardiff – step by step:
1. Deep Cleaning
UPVC collects invisible grime, oils, and even airborne pollutants. We use trade-grade degreasers to make sure nothing remains that could compromise adhesion.
2. Light Abrasion
The surface is keyed with a fine abrasive pad. This isn’t to scratch it up, but to create a microscopic profile that the primer bonds to.
3. Masking and Protection
We carefully mask the glass, brickwork, and seals. Overspray on glass is a tell-tale sign of an amateur job.
4. Adhesion Primer
We apply a specialist primer designed specifically for plastics like UPVC. This chemically bonds to the frame, ensuring the colour coat sticks securely.
5. Colour Coats
We spray multiple fine layers of colour. This builds up an even, durable finish with no streaks or brush marks.
6. Topcoat Protection
Finally, a UV and weather-resistant topcoat locks everything in. It flexes with Cardiff’s temperature swings, preventing cracking or peeling.
Local Case Studies
Canton: From Faded White to Modern Grey
A family in Canton had south-facing windows that had faded to a yellowish white. Replacement quotes were coming in at £6,000+. Instead, we sprayed the full house of windows in anthracite grey for under £2,000. The finish gave the property instant kerb appeal and looked like a brand-new installation.
Roath: Restoring Charm to a Victorian Terrace
In Roath, a homeowner wanted to keep the traditional look of their bay windows but update the colour to match a new front door. We sprayed the frames with a soft cream. The result was subtle but transformed the whole street-facing façade.
Cardiff Bay: Battling Coastal Wear
A townhouse in Cardiff Bay had windows that were chalky and dull from constant salt exposure. We used an extra UV and moisture-resistant coating to ensure longevity. Twelve months later, the windows still look freshly sprayed.
Why Spraying is Better Than Replacement
Replacing UPVC windows is costly and disruptive. It also often means removing perfectly sound frames just because the colour has faded. Spraying avoids this waste.
- Cost savings: Spraying usually costs 20–30% of replacement.
- Speed: Most whole-house spraying projects take 2–3 days, not weeks.
- Sustainability: Less waste goes to landfill.
- Flexibility: You can choose virtually any colour, from subtle whites to bold blacks or modern greys.
Mistakes to Avoid When Spraying
We’ve seen our fair share of DIY or “budget” spraying jobs gone wrong in Cardiff. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Skipping primer – Paint sits on the surface and peels off within months.
- Spraying in damp weather – Cardiff’s humidity can cause blooming or patchiness.
- Cheap domestic paints – They simply don’t last outdoors.
- Poor masking – Overspray on glass or brickwork spoils the finish.
We were recently called to a property in Llanishen where a homeowner had hired a handyman to paint the frames. Within weeks, the paint was flaking. We stripped it back, primed correctly, and resprayed – it now looks immaculate.
How Much Does It Cost to Spray UPVC Windows in Cardiff?
Prices vary depending on size and number of windows, but here’s a rough guide:
- Single window: £120–£180
- Terraced house: £700–£1,200
- Semi-detached: £1,200–£1,800
- Detached house: £1,800–£2,500+
Compare that with replacement costs (often £5,000–£10,000+) and you’ll see why spraying is growing in popularity.
Colour Trends in Cardiff
We’ve noticed clear favourite colours among Cardiff homeowners:
- Anthracite grey – By far the most popular, especially in Cyncoed and Pontprennau.
- Jet black – Bold, modern, and increasingly common in Pontcanna.
- Soft creams and whites – Still popular in Roath and older terraces for a classic look.
- Earthy greens – A growing trend in Whitchurch, tying into the shift towards natural tones.
Whatever you choose, we always test a sample first. Cardiff’s natural light can make colours look different compared to a swatch indoors.
FAQs About Spraying UPVC Windows
Q: Can you spray in winter?
Yes, but only if the weather allows. We avoid days that are too damp, cold, or windy.
Q: Will the finish peel or crack?
Not with proper preparation and the right products. Done professionally, it lasts 7–10 years.
Q: Do you remove the windows to spray them?
No – they’re sprayed in place, with everything carefully masked and protected.
Q: Can you match the colour to my door?
Absolutely. We can colour-match to virtually any shade, including RAL colours and popular brands.
Final Thoughts on Spray UPVC Windows Cardiff
If you’re considering whether to spray UPVC windows in Cardiff, the answer is simple: it’s faster, cheaper, and more sustainable than replacement. The results are dramatic, and when done professionally, the finish is designed to withstand Cardiff’s weather for years to come.
From Pontcanna townhouses to Grangetown terraces, we’ve seen just how much difference spraying can make. It’s not just about saving money – it’s about giving your home a fresh, modern look without the upheaval of replacement.
If your windows are dragging your home down, we’ll bring them back to life – with a sprayed finish built for Cardiff’s weather.