How to Wrap a Window with Vinyl

Once you have installed new vinyl windows, you can wrap window ledges and exterior frames made of wood in gleaming vinyl. Your whole window exterior will match, adding style and value to your home. Follow these tips below to wrap your windows with vinyl. Be sure you purchase vinyl-coated window wrap, not painted aluminum, to ensure a waterproof finish.

Step 1: Measure the Window Edges to be Covered

Measure all the window ledges and frames you want to cover in vinyl wrap, and add 1 inch to each for overlap and secure fit. Measure the width of the frame and ledges in order to select the best width of vinyl wrap. It comes in 2-inch and 3-inch widths. If you have several wide window ledges to cover, purchase vinyl wrap in both widths.

Step 2: Purchase the Vinyl Wrap and Tools You Need

Purchase the vinyl wrap, a coil dispenser, and any of the other installation tools you need at a reputable hardware, home supply or building supply store. The vinyl wrap should come with a limited warranty and directions for installation. Many building supply centers also carry vinyl wrap in a wide range of colors, to coordinate with your brick, siding and trim. Often the vinyl wrap will be embossed with a woodgrain finish.

Step 3: Clean and Sand the Wood Surfaces

Wash the wood surfaces and sand them to remove old paint chips and splinters. It is important to provide the smoothest possible surface on which to install the vinyl wrap, for a snug, watertight fit.

Step 4: Prepare the Wrap for Installation

Slip the coil of vinyl wrap onto the coil dispenser. Measure the length you wish to install. Each side of the window must be wrapped separately. Cut the length of vinyl wrap off the coil. Bend the flat wrap into a U-shape along its entire length, and press it up against the frame or ledge.

Step 5: Attach the Vinyl Wrap

Secure the curved piece of vinyl wrap to the wood with industrial staples, just a few inches at a time. Press down hard on the wrap to eliminate bubbles and gaps. Once you have stapled the vinyl wrap down on both edges, fasten both ends down with finishing nails.

Step 6: Finishing the Last Piece on a Window

Ensure the last piece of vinyl wrap you install on the window overlaps the first by about 1 inch. Secure this end snugly with staples and finishing nails.

Step 7: Caulk the Vinyl Wrap for Watertightness

Using firm, steady pressure on the caulking gun, apply a bead of silicone caulking all around the newly wrapped window frame and ledge. Spread the caulking out slightly with the narrow putty knife. Ensure there are no bubbles or gaps, and that the edge of the vinyl wrap is well coated with the caulking. White opaque caulking is easier to paint over than clear caulking.