Painted PVC can give a fun pop of color to any project, but the pipe’s molecular makeup requires a few important steps. Sand the PVC and wipe it with acetone before painting with a plastic-rated paint. Apply thin layers of paint and allow it to dry between coats. This process ensures the paint will adhere to the PVC.
Why Would You Need to Paint PVC?
PVC pipes and fittings are so easy to build with, they’ve become a go-to product for many do-it-yourselfers. Maybe you want to create some outdoor games like polish horseshoes or ring toss, or you’re looking to build a shoe rack for your mudroom. With PVC, you can make it happen, but the white industrial look may not be the aesthetic you were going for. (Most often standard pvc includes manufacturer markings as well). Painting the PVC allows you to completely customize the look.
Most buildings have PVC piping already in them these days, and occasionally, the pipe itself could be visible. For example, industrial loft spaces may have exposed piping for a more modern look, but bright white PVC could interfere with the design. With a little paint, you can make the PVC blend into its surroundings a bit more, or you can choose a vibrant color to turn it into a statement feature of the space.
Required Materials
If you’re planning to paint PVC, you’ll need more than a can of spray paint, but it can still be a fairly simple job, even for a beginner. To get started, you’ll need:
• Sandpaper (using a 220 grit works well, leaving the surface rough enough to adhere paint, yet smooth enough for a good finish)
• Acetone
• A clean washcloth
• Rubber gloves
• Drop cloths
• Spray paint designed for plastic
• Mask and protective eyewear (optional)
Preparing for Your Painting Project
Set Up Your Work Area
Choose a well-ventilated spot like a garage or workshop where doors and windows can remain open while you work. Ideally, paint on a day with low humidity, as well, so that your project will dry faster. Lay drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or newspapers on the ground, as well as over any of the surrounding items that you wish to keep clean. Smaller pieces of PVC may be able to stand on their own while you paint. If you’re working with longer pieces of pipe, however, you may need to cover a wall with drop cloth to lean the pipe against.
If you’re working with PVC in an existing space, you’ll need to prep the best you can without overspray adhering to the surroundings.
Sand Your Pipe
PVC was designed with a unique waterproof molecular structure which makes it great for plumbing, but not for painting. If you apply paint directly to the exterior of the PVC, it’s likely to smear or run off. This important step will help the paint adhere to the PVC pipe. Select a sandpaper with a grit of 220 or higher, but avoid using an electric sander, which could wear down the pipe too quickly causing flat spots.
• Note, scotch bright style pads are available in 220 grit, which may be easier to use than flat 220 paper. If buying a scotch bright style pad, ensure the grit is close to 220.
Lightly scour the entire exterior of the pipe. You can sand in all directions, move up and down the pipe, while ensuring you curve around the pipe. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the PVC. You may need to replace the sandpaper frequently during the process, as the waxy outer coating of the pipe can build up on the paper.
Clean the pipe
Once you’ve sanded the PVC, it will be covered in a layer of dust. This needs to be removed before you begin painting. Wearing rubber gloves, dampen a clean cloth with acetone and wipe the entire surface of the pipe. Allow it to dry 20-30 minutes before you apply paint.
How to Paint PVC Pipe
Using spray paint:
1. Apply the First Coat
Choose a plastic-rated spray paint in the color of your choice. Plastic rated paint includes additives that provide a better bond to polyvinyl chloride. Shake well, then begin spraying, making slow, steady passes across the pipe. Instead of trying to heavily coat the PVC on the first pass, use a lighter touch to avoid drips.
2. Apply Additional Coats
Wait 20 to 30 minutes, then repeat the process of spraying and drying until you achieve the desired color.
3. Allow to Fully Dry
Once you’ve completed your paint coatings, allow your PVC to dry and cure for at least 24 hours before you use it. In applications where the PVC could be scratched easily, consider waiting up to a week before working with it.
If painting already installed piping, ensure you block off the area or mark out the location so no damage will occur to fresh paint.
Hand Painting:
1. Prime the Pipe
When painting by hand, a primer is recommended. Choose a plastic-rated primer in matte white and use a brush to paint in long, smooth strokes from one end of the PVC to the other. Apply a single coat and allow it to dry completely before adding color.
2. Add Paint
Apply paint in the same way as the primer, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next. It may take several coats to achieve your desired shade.
3. Allow to Fully Dry
Once the painting is complete, allow it to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours until you use it in your project.
How to Ensure Your Paint Will Last
Be Sure to Sand Your Pipe
The slick outer surface of PVC makes it very difficult for paint to adhere on its own. If you opt not to sand, you may find that the paint smears easily or slides right off. Sanding creates a rough surface on the exterior of the PVC and gives the paint something to adhere to.
Coat with Acetone
Sanding PVC creates a large amount of dust and debris on the outside of the pipe. If you immediately begin to paint, you may notice a sandy or clumping texture on the pipe. Wiping the pipe with acetone will remove the dust and help create a smooth finish.
Use a Paint that Adheres to Plastic/Polyvinyl Chloride
Not all paints are designed for painting plastic. Be sure to select a paint that is plastic-rated so it can adhere to the PVC properly. Fortunately, you’ll find several options at your local hardware store.
Consider Using a Primer
When you apply a primer coat before painting, you’ll provide an additional texture for the paint to adhere to. Primer also has better bonding agents, made to adhere to a wider range of surfaces.
Alternative Options for Painting
Paint isn’t the only way to add some color to your project. You can purchase PVC piping & fittings in a variety of bright primary colors (sometimes called furniture fittings).
Whether you want to make your own patio furniture or you plan to update the look of your industrial loft, you can easily add color to your PVC piping with some time, prep and materials.