Painting window sills - Harris

How to paint window sills

Window sills endure daily wear, moisture, and sunlight, making a proper paint job essential for long-lasting results. With the right techniques and materials, you can achieve a smooth, professional finish that enhances your home’s look and protects your window sills from damage. Follow these expert tips on how to paint a window sill to ensure a flawless, durable paint job.

Which paint brushes should I use when painting a window sill?

Harris paint brushes should be your go-to when it comes to painting or repainting window sills. For the finest finish, we recommend using our:

Use the brushes for cutting in and the roller for the main area. 

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The technology behind our gloss paint brushes

We’ve used cutting edge technology to ensure we offer the best gloss paint brushes on the market. With the highest specification synthetic filaments, you’ll achieve a superior finish, paired with our guaranteed no bristle loss and lint free roller painting.

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4 steps to getting the perfect window sill finish

1. Choose the right paint

Use a durable, moisture-resistant paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. These finishes are easy to clean and withstand daily wear.

2. Prep the surface properly

Sand the window sill to smooth out imperfections, then clean it thoroughly to remove dust and grease. Apply a quality primer for better adhesion.

3. Apply thin, even coats

Use a high quality brush or foam roller to apply thin coats of paint. Let each coat dry fully before applying the next to avoid drips or uneven coverage.

4. Protect against moisture and damage

Seal edges with caulk to prevent moisture infiltration and consider adding a protective clear coat for extra durability, especially in high traffic areas.

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Painting window sills FAQs

Yes, primer ensures better paint adhesion and helps achieve a smoother, longer-lasting finish.

Opt for a satin or semi-gloss finish, as these are more resistant to moisture, dirt, and everyday wear.

Water-based paints typically dry within a few hours but may need up to 24 hours for full curing. Oil-based paints take longer, up to 48 hours.

Yes, but you should sand and clean the surface thoroughly before applying a bonding primer for the best results.

Proper surface prep, using a high quality primer, and avoiding thick coats help prevent peeling. Also, ensure your home is well-ventilated to reduce moisture build up.

Regular cleaning, sealing cracks with caulk, and applying a protective topcoat can extend the lifespan of your paint job.

Use a high quality angled brush or foam roller, apply light coats, and sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish.

Yes, sanding the window sill is recommended before painting. It helps smooth the surface, remove any old peeling paint, and create a better surface for the new paint to adhere to.

Yes, you can paint over a window sill, but proper preparation is important. Clean the surface, sand it if necessary, and apply a primer before painting for the best results.

You can remove old paint by sanding, using a paint scraper, or applying a chemical paint stripper. A heat gun can also help loosen stubborn paint for easier removal.

"Great brush and the first time I've not thrown a brush away after glossing. Lays the paint off well and great value for money. Will definitely buy again."

Amazon Customer

Why choose Harris Brushes for window sill painting?

Superior bristle quality

Harris paint brushes are crafted with natural bristles and synthetic filaments, ensuring superior paint pick-up and coverage with minimal bristle loss. Perfect for painting window sills, as consistent application is essential.
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Specialised product ranges

Our ‘Seriously Good’ range provides high quality brushes that perform well with minimal effort, while the ‘Ultimate’ range is designed for professional-level performance, featuring innovative technologies ideal for achieving a flawless finish with your window sills.
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No bristle loss guarantee

The Harris Ultimate Paint Brushes come with a no bristle loss guarantee, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted painting experience.
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Ready to tackle the window sill painting in your home?

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