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Specialist in self-adhesive window frame foil
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Guide · Wrap it yourself in 7 steps

Wrapping window frames inside and out: guide in 7 steps

Faded, scratched or peeling foil on your window frame can be renewed yourself with self-adhesive repair foil – without replacing the windows. This guide shows you step by step how to wrap uPVC windows – outside and inside, including aluminium profiles – with foil from RENOLIT and Continental: from preparation and bubble-free application to a clean edge.

Wrapping window frames: self-adhesive window frame foil is pressed onto the uPVC profile with a felt squeegee
Application from 15 °C · final adhesion after 24 h The adhesive is repositionable – small corrections are possible while applying.
Application +15 to +45 °C
Repositionable adhesive
With video guide
Film samples from €0.99

What you need to wrap window frames

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Tools for wrapping window frames

Tip
Fensterrahmen ohne Blasen folieren
Squeegee with felt edge – film squeegee – wrap window frames without damaging the film

Regular price: €4.99
Tip
Professional felt squeegee – apply window film without air bubbles
Professional felt squeegee – apply window film without air bubbles

Regular price: €4.99
Fensterrahmenfolie sauber schneiden
Large aluminium cutter knife – for precise film applications

Regular price: €4.99
Paint scraper 50mm, with 2K soft handle, remove old film from window frame
Paint scraper 50mm, with 2K soft handle, remove old film from window frame

Regular price: €16.07
folierte Fensterrahmen reinigen beschichtete Oberflaechen_Professional Cleaner for RENOLIT EXOFOL coated surfaces
RENOLIT window frame cleaner for foiled window surfaces

Regular price: €24.99
Video

Video: wrapping window frames

The video shows the key steps – from applying the film to trimming the edges.

Step 1 of 7

Step 1: Identify the decor and match the colour

Before you start, compare the desired decor with the existing window frame foil – colour, grain and gloss level. If you are unsure about the colour, order a film sample for €0.99 or a colour fan.

Tip: If the colour differs slightly, re-wrap a larger connected area – for example the whole sash instead of just one profile section. The result will look more even.
Step 2 of 7

Step 2: Prepare the surface

  • Mask undamaged profile areas with a piece of repair film to protect them.
  • Completely remove old, damaged film with the paint scraper or a sander.
  • Even if the old film is still intact, its surface texture must be removed so that the surface is smooth and free of pores.
  • In the window corners, use the squeegee with felt edge so that nothing gets damaged.
  • Smooth the transitions to the profile with sandpaper (grit 120 → 220 → 400).

This step is not needed for unfoiled elements.

Important: Residue and unevenness cause bubbles under the new film.
The transition to the profile is smoothed with sandpaperDamaged film on a uPVC window before the repairOld window frame foil is removed with the paint scraperThe film texture is sanded off to obtain a smooth surfaceProfile surface after removing the old film
The window frame is cleaned before wrappingCleaned, grease-free profile surface before applying the film
Step 3 of 7

Step 3: Clean

  • The surface must be free of dust, grease and silicone.
  • Recommended: clean with the RENOLIT window frame cleaner.
  • Then warm the surface with the hot air gun and let it dry off.
Step 4 of 7

Step 4: Cut the film

  • Small pieces are easier to handle – the film comes on convenient rolls.
  • Cut the film at least 2 cm larger than the bonding surface.
  • The edges are trimmed precisely after application.
The film is pressed onto the window frame without bubbles using the felt squeegeeThe backing paper of the self-adhesive film is peeled off
Step 5 of 7

Step 5: Apply the film

  • Preheat the surface to approx. 30–40 °C. Not every substrate is heat-resistant – check beforehand.
  • Peel off the backing paper gradually, starting at one corner.
  • Press the film on without bubbles using the felt squeegee – from the inside outwards.
  • If air gets trapped, carefully lift the film and apply it again.

The adhesive is repositionable and reaches final adhesion after 24 hours.

Step 6 of 7

Step 6: Finish the edges

  • Warm the edges slightly.
  • Fold the film over and trim it flush with the utility knife .
  • A clean cut edge prevents the film from coming loose in bad weather.
Wrapped edge on the window profileExcess film is trimmed at the profile edge with the utility knife
Finished wrapped corner on a uPVC windowThe film is fitted to a rounded corner of the window frameCorner after folding over the film
Step 7 of 7

Step 7: Finish the corners

  • For round or shaped corners, warm the film, fit it and fold it over.
  • Trim off the excess cleanly.
  • If necessary, touch up with a touch-up pen in the matching colour.
Is it worth it?

Wrapping uPVC windows: when is it worth it?

Wrapping pays off when the windows work properly but no longer look good – inside and out. Typical reasons:

  • white uPVC frames have yellowed from UV exposure
  • the old foil on the weather side is faded, cracked or peeling
  • scratches, pry marks or damage from unsuitable cleaners
  • a new colour, for example to match a new facade or front door

What the foil can do

It gives uPVC and aluminium frames a new surface in over 250 decors and covers yellowing, scratches and discolouration – without replacement and without building work. For wrapping window frames on the outside, use the UV-resistant, weatherproof self-adhesive exterior foil.

What the foil cannot do

It does not fix functional defects. Leaking seals, warped sashes, faulty fittings or broken profiles must be repaired first. Smooth deep dents and uneven areas beforehand, otherwise they show through the foil.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes when wrapping window frames

Bubbles under the film

Usually caused by residue, unevenness or remaining film texture. Sand the surface smooth and clean it thoroughly beforehand, and press the film on from the inside outwards.

Film comes loose at the edges

The edge was not warmed or not trimmed flush. Warm the edges slightly, fold the film over and trim it cleanly with the utility knife.

Applied in the cold

Below 15 °C the adhesive bonds less well. Warm the surface and film to 30–40 °C with the hot air gun and allow 24 hours for final adhesion.

Costs

How much does it cost to wrap window frames?

If you wrap the frames yourself, you only pay for the material. The price of the repair film depends on the film width and running metres and is shown with each item. Film is cut to length by the metre, from 3 or 5 metres depending on the width. Add the one-off cost of the tools from our accessories.

Measure the developed width of the profile – i.e. the area the film covers including the fold-over, not just the visible face – and add up the lengths of all profile sides. Allow generously for corners, overhang and waste.

How to calculate the quantity

  • Measure the profile width and choose the matching roll (100, 180, 200, 500 or 1000 mm)
  • Add up the lengths of all profile sides of frame and sash
  • Allow at least 2 cm overhang per piece
  • Not sure about the decor? Order a film sample for €0.99 first

Example calculation

Window 1.23 × 1.48 m: outer frame approx. 5.4 m plus sash approx. 5 m – about 11 running metres including waste. In 100 mm width (e.g. RENOLIT anthracite grey 7016 at €8.32 per metre) that is about €92 of material, in 200 mm width (€12.40 per metre) about €136. Prices vary by decor, as of 09/2026.

Having it done

No time or tools? Have your window frames wrapped

We do not offer a wrapping service ourselves. However, we know installers who apply our films professionally. Tell us where your property is located – we will be happy to name an installer near you.

This information helps us

  • Postcode and town of the property
  • Number of windows and doors
  • Desired decor, if known
  • Photos of the windows – ideally including damaged areas
Questions and answers

Frequently asked questions about wrapping window frames

Is it worth wrapping window frames?

Yes, if the windows work properly and only the surface is yellowed, faded or scratched. Material for a standard window costs about €90 to €140 depending on profile width – a fraction of a new window.

Can uPVC windows be wrapped retrospectively?

Yes. The foil is applied directly to the installed frames; the window stays in place. The surface must be smooth and clean, and any old foil texture must be removed first.

Can I wrap window frames on the outside?

Yes. The RENOLIT and Continental foils are exterior foils, UV-resistant and weatherproof, and are also used outdoors by the window industry. Outside, work in dry weather and not in direct sunlight. More about exterior foil.

Can I wrap window frames myself?

Yes. The self-adhesive window frame foil is pressed onto the profile contour with a squeegee or felt and is also suitable for DIYers. What matters is a smooth, clean surface and the right temperature.

Can I apply new film over the old film?

Yes, if the old film is intact. Its surface texture must be removed first so that no air is trapped – otherwise bubbles form in sunlight.

At what temperature can I apply the film?

Ideally between +15 and +45 °C. Below 15 °C, the surface and film must be warmed more with the hot air gun. Final adhesion is reached after approx. 24 hours.

What should I use to clean the window frame before wrapping?

We recommend the RENOLIT window frame cleaner. The surface must be free of dust, grease and silicone and must dry off before the film is applied.

Can I also wrap aluminium windows and front doors?

Yes. The film adheres to smooth, painted metal surfaces as well as to uPVC – including front doors, window sills and garage doors.

How should I store leftover film?

At room temperature (18–22 °C) and 50–70 % humidity. The maximum storage time is 12 months after delivery.

Legal notice

Our technical information is based on internal experience and is provided as non-binding guidance. Users must check the suitability for their specific application themselves. We accept no liability for processing outside our control.

Technical questions and advice

Mr Makowski
Email: info@makopan.de
Phone: +49 2942 5808224
Phone support in German, English and Polish.

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