Plastic, PVC and uPVC are challenging surfaces to paint. And some plastics don’t tolerate paint at all. So, which types of plastics can you actually paint? And how do you go about it? We explain it step by step.

Plastics such as PVC and uPVC are difficult to paint. Paint does not easily adhere to these surfaces because of the smooth, non-porous surface. Plastic also has a high thermal expansion coefficient, so the outside rapidly shrinks and expands. uPVC is also specially made to be UV- and weather-resistant, so your paint must also have these properties if you want to obtain and attractive end result.

Which plastic can you paint?

Some plastics, such as teflon or polyethylene, are so non-stick that they cannot be painted due to their anti-adhesive properties. Here is an overview of types of plastics that can or cannot be painted.

Type of plastic	Application example	Paintable?
PVC (and uPVC)	Windows, doors, profiles	Yes (with the right primer)
ABS	Panels, finishes	Yes (with the right primer)
Polycarbonate	Windows	Yes (with the right primer)
PMMA (acrylic glass)	Window panes	Yes (with the right primer)
HPL / Trespa	Façade cladding	Yes (with the right primer)
PE (LDPE / HDPE)	Pipes, sheets	No
PP	Pipes, profiles, ceilings	No
PTFE (teflon)	Window and door seals	No

Don’t know what type of plastic you’re dealing with? Most of the time, you’ll find a recycling logo or stamp on the plastic, such as PP, ABS or PE. Is that not the case? Then you can do a small test to see if the primer adheres properly. If that’s not possible, the supplier or architect can help you further.

1. The right product: Zinsser® Bulls Eye® 1-2-3 Primer Sealer

To paint plastic, PVC or uPVC you always start with a primer with strong adhesive properties. Zinsser® Bulls Eye® 1-2-3 is a water-based universal primer that dries quickly with excellent covering power. You can directly apply it to plastic indoors or outdoors without having to sand first.

Bulls Eye 1-2-3 not only covers well, it is also flexible, so cracks and fissures are prevented all year long. Do you want a topcoat in a dark colour? No problem! Bulls Eye 1-2-3 can be coloured in pastel shades to bring it closer to the colour of your topcoat. You then need fewer coats and save time and money.

Bulls Eye 1-2-3

Zinsser® Bulls Eye 1-2-3 gives you a strongly adhesive and flexible primer.

Allcoat Interior & Exterior + PermaWhite

Zinsser® Allcoat Interior, Allcoat Exterior and PermaWhite® give you a protective topcoat.

2. Preparing the surface

Proceed as follows to optimally prepare the plastic surface for painting.

1. Cleaning the surface

Clean the plastic surface with Zinsser® Multi-Surface Degreaser & Cleaner. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and leave to dry.

2. Sanding the substrate (optional)

Sanding is optional but we advise you to do it anyway. Sand loose material away with a stiff brush or other abrasive until you have a smooth surface. Sand smooth edges with fine sanding material. Remove the dust.

3. Priming the substrate

When the substrate is smooth and all dust has been removed you can get started with the primer.

1. Preparing the primer

First thoroughly stir the Bulls Eye 1-2-3. This guarantees a consistent colour and texture.

2. Applying the primer

Apply a single coat and leave it to dry for at least 1 hour.

4. Finishing the substrate

For the finish you can choose between water-based or solvent-based topcoats because Bulls Eye 1-2-3 can be used with either. Excellent water-based options are Allcoat Interior, Allcoat Exterior and PermaWhite®, depending on whether you wish to paint your plastic or uPVC outside or inside.

Allcoat Interior is a quick-drying primer and topcoat in one. Thanks to its innovative formula it adheres well to almost any interior substrate, including plastic and PVC. It is scratch- and scrub-resistant and available in matt.
Allcoat Exterior is a quick-drying primer and topcoat in one. Its flexibility, weather-resistance and covering power make it the ultimate solution for painting uPVC and other plastics outdoors. Available in matt and silky gloss.
If the plastic surface is located in a damp interior space it is best to use PermaWhite® (Matt or Satin). This primer and topcoat in one adheres well to plastic and PVC and prevents the adhesion of dirt and mould growths.

1. Preparing the paint

Thoroughly stir the Allcoat Interior/Exterior or PermaWhite®. This guarantees a consistent colour and texture.

2. Applying the first coat

Apply the first coat. Use a roller for larger surfaces and a brush for more intricate work. Leave the coat to dry for at least 2 hours.

3. Applying the second coat

Apply a second coat. PermaWhite® is paintable after 2 hours. Allcoat Interior and Exterior are paintable after 1 hour.

Conclusion

Painting plastic, PVC and uPVC requires the right approach and the right products. The smooth and non-porous nature makes a strongly adherent and flexible primer essential. With Zinsser® Bulls Eye 1-2-3 you create a sound base that ensures optimal adhesive power and durability. In combination with the right finish you then have a flawless and long-lasting result.