XOX Coatings

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is uPVC?

uPVC stands for un-plasticised polyvinyl chloride, it is a strong and low-maintenance but lightweight plastic building material.

UPVC is a low-maintenance material, unlike natural materials which require annual sanding, varnishing and repainting. Windows & doors made from uPVC can last for decades without any sign of weathering, ‘the only upkeep is to clean with soapy water to prevent staining and remove grime and dirt.

This makes uPVC perfect for spraying, and our specialist coating will actually protect and help preserve the uPVC frames underneath.

How Long Does uPVC Paint Last?

There are various products available on the market for uPVC painting, from standard water-based paints which can be applied with a brush to Single part (1K) and 2-part paints (2K) options.

The 2K coating used by us at XOX Coatings has an expected lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This can be maximised with regular cleaning and ensuring any abrasive debris is not left on the surface for long periods of time. Areas of harsher environmental impact such as southern-facing or coastal properties are subject to increased exposure to heat and salt air which can impact the lifespan of the product. This would still be expected to last at least 8 to 12 years.

What kind of paint do you use to spray uPVC?

There are various products available on the market for Upvc painting, from standard water-based paints which can be applied with a brush to Single part (1K) and 2-part paints (2K) options which are far better of sprayed by professionals.

The 2K coating used by us at XOX Coatings has an expected lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This can be maximised with regular cleaning and ensuring any abrasive debris is not left on the surface for long periods of time. Areas of harsher environmental impact such as southern-facing or coastal properties are subject to increased exposure to heat and salt air which can impact the lifespan of the product. This would still be expected to last at least 8 to 12 years.

Can aluminium window frames be painted?

Yes, the process and products used by our teams for uPVC window spraying are exactly the same as for the aluminium window frames.

Are Grey uPVC windows more expensive than white windows?

Yes. From the factory grey, uPVC windows are more expensive than standard white windows. We are able to spray your existing white windows in any colour including anthracite grey at a fraction of the cost of replacing.

How do you paint plastic window frames?

Whilst you are able to use waterborne products with a brush and roller to paint your plastic window frames, we would advise that the level of finish will be far below your expectations. We recommend hiring a professional UPVC spraying company to do this for you, using specialist products and equipment to ensure a factory finish on your window frames.

How durable is the paint for uPVC?

The 2K products we use are extremely durable. They are industrial products with high build qualities which enables them to be applied in a thick coating which gives more durability than multiple thin coats of paint.

The coating has an expected lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This can be maximised with regular cleaning and ensuring any abrasive debris is not left on the surface for long periods of time. Areas of harsher environmental impact such as southern-facing or coastal properties are subject to increased exposure to heat and salt air which can impact the lifespan of the product. This would still be expected to last at least 8 to 12 years.

Can you change the colour of white uPVC doors and windows?

Yes, you can change the colour of your aluminium or uPVC windows and doors. The colour choices are almost infinite!

There are various products available on the market for uPVC painting, from standard water-based paints which can be applied with a brush to Single part (1K) and 2-part paints (2K) options which are far better of sprayed by professionals.

At XOX Coatings we use only 2K products for all applications. The spraying process provides a factory finish on your uPVC without leaving a poor finish with brush marks. We would always recommend using a professional for painting your uPVC.

What type of finish will the paint have?

We have various options available depending on the product specified. At a minimum, we will have sheen levels that are matte (10%), satin (30%) and gloss (70%) with even more options available from a dead flat matte (5%) right up to a high gloss (90%) in many products.

Does the work come with a guarantee?

Whilst we do not offer a product guarantee we do offer a 12-month workmanship guarantee for most services. We can assure you that the expected lifespan of the 2K products we use for external works is 10-15 years. This can be reduced to 8-12 years if you live in a coastal area
where the salt in the air corrodes the coatings faster than inland.

With internal products for kitchens, we do offer a 12-month workmanship guarantee but are unable to offer a genuine product guarantee. Each household is different and each kitchen will be treated differently and used more or less often, therefore we are unable to offer a guarantee. The kitchen paint has a life expectancy of 6-8 years, whereby it can be recoated in this time which will add to the overall lifetime. There is no limit to the number of times a kitchen could be recoated.

We are unable to offer a product guarantee as the product manufacturer we use does not offer this. It is a common misconception that 10-year guarantees are standard with uPVC spraying – however, we do suggest you request a copy of a guarantee from a supplier – it is highly unlikely
you will find many who can prove one.

How do you access top windows?

When spraying items at height we usually try to work mainly from ladders where safe to do so. However, if access will be impossible or dangerous by ladder, we would require either scaffolding or MEWP hire such as a cherry picker or scissor lift. Anything higher than first-floor windows will require access to equipment.

Do you tidy up afterwards?

Yes, all masking and waste items are cleared up, bagged and disposed of in our licensed waste bins. We have a valid waste license of which you can request a copy via email.

Can you paint other materials?

Yes, we are able to spray many things and are not limited to wood, plastic or metal. We have sprayed some unusual items in the past, from cast iron bathtubs to plastic PIR and alarm boxes and even marble fire surrounds. We have access to products for most substrates including glass and ceramic tiles.

Which locations do you serve?

We are based in Maidstone, Kent and mostly cover Kent, London and Essex. We have contacts all over the UK so would be able to assist on any project nationwide, using our own staff or our network of subcontractors.

Do you provide a commercial service?

Yes. We are able to offer light commercial, large scale commercial, industrial and intumescent spraying services across the UK. From aluminium shopfronts, shutters and facades to industrial unit cladding, and roof spraying. As well as the external spraying we are able to offer internal spraying for shop fit-outs, such as ceiling tile spraying and supermarket refurbishment.

How long will paint last?

This depends on the exact product used and the material that the product is going onto. Our metal and uPVC paints have an expected lifespan of 10-15 years, whilst our joinery and kitchen paints are expected to last 6-8 years before maintenance coats are required.

Do I need to do anything before you arrive?

All we usually require is access to power (electric socket) and that any obstructions are removed from the immediate area such as plant pots or garden statues. We do not require any cleaning or preparation prior to arrival unless stated, this is all done by our on-site operatives. We will require access to the property and rooms cleared as much as possible for internal works. The exact requirements for your project will be discussed before any work is undertaken.

Do I need to vacate the property?

Most often not. If we are spraying internally then we may request it. Depending on which products we have specified for your project, your pets and children may be best off not being present during the spraying process. If it’s possible for the home to be clear of pets and children during the on-site spray day this would be the best option, however, we understand this is not always possible and would request you retreat to the furthest room away from the spray area. Once the spraying is complete the area should be avoided for the rest of that day but will then be safe to use the following morning onwards.

Can you work weekends?

We do not work weekends as standard but understand businesses are often not able to shut down during the week for refurb purposes. We do try to accommodate this where possible, but please note there are small additional charges for this.

Is there any risk to the environment?

Of course, spraying any solvent-based product will have some VOCs present. However, the amount of plastic going into the landfill that would be massively reduced by reviving and not replacing your uPVC windows more than makes up for this. Having your old items sprayed and given a new lease of life is not only better for the environment but also for your pocket!

What if my uPVC is cracked?

Repairing a crack in uPVC is perfectly possible. Small cracks in uPVC windows and doors can be repaired with little to no trace. Larger cracks can cause structural weakness, which represents a significant security risk. This is not a service we offer, but our team can recommend a local surface repair technician which could perform the repair prior to our arrival.

What if the wrap is peeling off on my uPVC windows?

Some uPVC windows have a foil wrap on them which adds a grain effect to the windows. Where the external parts of uPVC window frames are continuously exposed to the elements this can will eventually deteriorate. Over a long period of time window foil can start to shrink causing the foil to bubble and lift. If left untreated the foil will eventually blister and start to split, no longer resembling its original appearance.

Unfortunately, if a large portion of the windows has got to this condition we wouldn’t recommend stripping the remaining foil before spraying. The cost and time involved in dissolving the old glue to ensure a perfect surface for spraying would take away the saving made from having them sprayed in the first place. If it is a few small localised areas of damage we may be able to repair these before spraying. We will always ask for photos of damage during the quoting process.

We would recommend looking for a re-foiling or vinyl wrapping company to repair localised areas, or if it is a high percentage of the windows, then even replacement may be the best and most economical option.

Do you work all-year round?

Yes. Whilst we do stop external work on residential properties during the wetter and colder months, we do continue to spray kitchens, and commercial and industrial works through the winter

What happens if you or I have to cancel?

We may have to postpone exterior uPVC spraying works from time to time subject to weather conditions. We will try to give you as much notice as possible, but can not guarantee to confirm postponement until the day of the booking. This is of course out of our control, but we promise to rebook your job back in at the earliest opportunity. We have multiple teams and do allow breaks in the diary every month to accommodate rebooking. We will never completely cancel your job.

If you wish to cancel and you have paid a booking deposit, this will be fully refundable as long as you give us 14 days’ written notice prior to your booking date. Any cancellation that doesn’t give 14 days’ notice will lose their deposit.

If you wish to postpone – this may be due to building delays or other factors we can be flexible and try to accommodate your requirements. We do ask for a minimum of 7 days’ notice to postpone, this gives us some time to book something else in that slot.

What is the going rate for uPVC spray painting?

The cost of uPVC spraying varies depending on the exact details of the project and location. A front door starts from £295.00, garage doors from £395.00 and windows range from £150.00 – £500.00 depending on size. Take a look at our quote builder for an approximate quote for your project.

Can you paint uPVC in rainy weather?

No. Whilst we stop external work on residential properties during winter months, we are able to deal with industrial and commercial projects. Rain and frost are a problem when spraying externally so we do require certain conditions are met to ensure the coatings will not fail. We will assess conditions and suggest solutions when we take on each project.

07498 976 802

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Why Us?

What Our Customers Say

“XOX Coatings recently sprayed my uPVC windows and doors, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. The finish is flawless, and it has completely transformed the appearance of my home. I highly recommend their services.”

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David - Essex

“I am so happy with the results of my kitchen spraying project. The team at XOX were professional and efficient, and the finished result looks brand new. I would definitely recommend their services.”

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Rebecca - Sittingbourne

“The team at XOX were professional and efficient. They were able to complete my front door spraying in a timely manner and the quality of their work exceeded my expectations. I would use them again without a doubt.”

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Matthew - Maidstone

“This kitchen spraying service was exactly what I needed to refresh my tired old kitchen. The quality of the workmanship was fantastic and the team were friendly and easy to work with. Highly recommend.”

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Amanda - Wigmore

“I was a bit hesitant to get my uPVC window frames sprayed, but XOX Coatings put my mind at ease with their excellent customer service and attention to detail. The end result was amazing and has made such a difference to the appearance of my home. I would definitely recommend them to anyone.”

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Stacey - Bromley

“The team at XOX Coatings were knowledgeable and skilled, and were able to transform my outdated kitchen into a modern and stylish space. I couldn't be happier with the result and would highly recommend their services.”

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Stacey - Bromley

“I was impressed with the range of colours and finishes available from XOX. Their team helped me choose the perfect colour match to complement my home and the end result was stunning. The quality of the workmanship was excellent and I would definitely use them again.”

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Elle - Chislehurst

“XOX Coatings provided excellent value for money. The team were able to complete the project quickly and efficiently, and the quality of their work was exceptional. I would definitely use them again for future projects.”

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John - Bexley

“I had a great experience with this uPVC spraying service from start to finish. The team were professional, friendly and accommodating to my schedule. The end result was exactly what I had hoped for and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking to refresh the look of their uPVC.”

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Elliot - Rochester

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