One of the most accessible and affordable ways to improve your home decor is by painting PVC Pipes before using them especially when exposed. This is a project that anyone can do, regardless of experience level.
In this blog post, we will discuss the steps necessary to paint PVC pipe in a way that will add some pizzazz to your home. We will also provide tips on choosing the right paint and colors for your project. If you’re ready to let your creative side out and turn basic PVC pipes into something distinctive, get ready to paint!
What Materials Do You Need to Paint PVC Pipe:
Without the proper tools, any project is doomed to fail. The same can be said of painting PVC pipe or trim – if you don’t have what you need, the final product won’t be up to your standards!
You likely already have most of the supplies you require to get started. Therefore you’ll only need to make a quick trip to purchase what’s missing.
80 grit sandpaper
Acetone
220 grit sandpaper
Gloves that are chemical resistant for use in acetone.
Paint formulated for plastics.
Drop cloth to catch spills
Small brushes for edges
Tips for Painting PVC pipe
When painting PVC pipe, there are a few things to bear in mind:
Choose the right paint. Not all paints will work well on PVC pipes. Acrylics and latex paints are a good option, while oil-based paints are not.
Apply a primer. A primer will help the paint stick to the PVC and will also help to ensure that the paint doesn’t fade over time.
Paint in thin layers. The paint is too thick and may start peeling off the PVC.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to know how to paint PVC pipe and improve your home decor in no time!
How to paint PVC Pipe?
Now that you know what materials and supplies you need and some tips to keep in mind, let’s get started painting!
Prepare Your Work Area
PVC should be primed and painted on a day with low humidity (ideally between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit). A well-ventilated yet wind-free place is an excellent example; a good place to start is a garage with doors and windows open. Acetone is a highly explosive chemical that should be used carefully away from heat sources. While working with acetone, don’t shower until the work is done.
Sand the Outside Surface of the PVC
Gently rub the pipe’s exterior with 220-grit sandpaper. You may be considering using an electric sander, but you’ll get better results if you scratch the sandpaper by hand. An electric sander can quickly wear down the material. Sand in all directions evenly to avoid any Surface irregularities. Be gentle when rubbing; it is essential not to press too hard on the pipe as this might damage it. Waxes from PVC pipes will come off on paper, so have plenty of sandpaper available and replace it regularly to maintain its roughness.
Cleaning the Pipe
Wiping the pipe surface with a clean fabric dampened with acetone might help to loosen any remaining sand. Allow it to dry naturally for 20-30 minutes. The acetone acts as a removal solvent, removing all of the access sand and swelling the PVC pipe’s surface to make it more porous for painting.
Protection Against Splatter
Before you start, cover any areas near where you’ll be working that might get paint on them. To prevent the color from dripping or being applied unevenly, use a wall, ladder, and chair to hold up long pieces of pipe (after you put down newspaper or plastic sheeting to protect those surfaces). Short articles can usually stand by themselves, so they’re quick to finish.
Apply Spray Paint
Now it’s time to get creative; get your spray paint and shake it vigorously for 15-20 minutes. Spray paint the pipe, starting at the top and working your way down to the bottom, with side-by-side sweeping motions. Paint PVC pipe using thin, continuous layers that overlap the paint as you descend the pipe to produce a decent layer. It will result in a great coat if done correctly.
Applying the Second Coat
The second coat is often a little more challenging than the first because people are prone to make more errors here, assuming that painting requires less caution. Allow for at least 20-30 minutes before going for the second. If you have to keep the piping on the ground to paint it, wait until the other side is dry and turn it over to work on the opposite side. To ensure an even, attractive layer, don’t overlap paint on the side you’ve already done.
When working with PVC pipe, you must apply multiple thin layers of paint until the desired color is reached.
Let it Dry for 24 Hours.
Allow the paint to air-dry for at least 24 hours before using it for any project. Ensuring a reasonable drying period is essential for getting the best results or a project that could scape the pipe’s new paint. Check the manufacturer’s instructions if unsure about the best drying time. After completing your project, use a water-dampened cotton cloth to wipe and clean the pipe.
Here’s an example video
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paint do you use on PVC pipe?
The best paint for plastic surfaces like PVC is made of a unique formula that leaves an excellent finish and does not chip or peel. One popular type, Krylon fusion paints, are less likely than other types to damage your project if they brush up against metal edges while working on it too!
Can you paint black plumbing plastic tubes?
You can paint black plumbing pipes with special paint made for plastic surfaces. You need to clean the surface of the line before painting it. Then apply a primer designed for use on plastics. After the primer has dried, apply your chosen paint color. Be sure to use paint that is also made specifically for plastic surfaces. Your home’s paint job is an essential part of its overall look. The good news is that painting black plumbing plastic tubes is indeed likely!
Why should you prime PVC pipe before painting?
PVC or polyvinyl chloride is an excellent material for plumbing as it can be smooth-sided and still have rough edges. However, this makes them less desirable when trying to cover up minor imperfections like manufacturer markings which may show through from time spent on the production line; we recommend priming with a good quality paint because if there are any traces of oil, then our work will come undone at best!
Can you paint PVC piping?
PVC is an excellent siding material because it can withstand weathering and offer an affordable price point. When you want your house or business property to look its best, there’s nothing better than using quality products from top brands such as CertainTeed®, explicitly formulated with PVC in mind!
Can you paint PVC with latex?
Good exterior latex paint is typically used to paint PVC that has been recycled or freshly manufactured. Always ensure the surface is clean and clear as a preventative measure. Acetone and denatured alcohol are effective cleaners for PVC.
Spray painting or brush painting?
Paint comparison time! If you’re looking for the best coverage and a smoother finish, go with spray paints. However, brushing is still an option if you don’t mind brush strokes being noticeable. To get better results from brush painting, prime the PVC surface before starting.
Will the paint adhere to the PVC pipe?
To paint PVC, you first need to prepare the surface and then use paints designed explicitly for PVC.
