What Color To Paint Window Sills? [4 Options Explored]

Choosing the various color schemes for your home can feel like an endless task. Are you wondering what the best colors are for the window sills inside and outside your house but don't know where to start? Is it better to choose a plain, neutral tone or something bright and vibrant?

Luckily, we've done extensive research into this topic and have some ideas to share.

If you need inspiration for your window sills, start by looking at the existing trim in your space. One of the easiest things to do here is to paint your window sills the same color.

Additionally, you can stick to a neutral hue, like white, beige, grey, or tan/brown. The key is not to draw too much attention to your window sill, as this can be an area where dirt and dust collect.

As we begin, we will cover all things window sills and discuss what colors work best for this space. Whether it's time for a remodel or you are building a brand new house, we're here to offer some help. With that said, let's get right into this post below!

What Color Should You Paint A Window Sill?

In general, experts recommend painting a window sill white or the same color as your trim. As we mentioned, using a neutral or matching hue can create a theme in your space.

Considering that a window sill shouldn't be the center of attention, colors like white, grey, beige, and brown/tan are perfect. However, keeping all the window sills in your home white is a great default option if you're indecisive.

Moreover, if you need to paint exterior sills, try to match them to your siding or trim. Even though going with wacky, vibrant tones can be a great concept, in theory, 9/10 times, it won't turn out cohesive.

You should also consider how much dust and dirt will collect on your window sill, which can impact the final color choice. The last thing you want is paint that will attract and showcase the debris in your house for everybody to see.

This will also come down to the paint finish, which we will cover later in this article.

Should A Window Sill Match The Trim?

Yes, it is generally a good idea to use the same color for your window sill as the trim. Typically, this can take the guessing out of your color palette and create a cohesive theme.

Furthermore, matching your window sills to the trim will work as camouflage, making them feel less stand-out in a room. As we said, the window sill is a fairly messy location, so the last thing you want to do is draw more attention to it.

You can also match your sills to the window frame if you have a slightly different hue, so there isn't one way to do this. Regardless, we recommend keeping it simple, neutral, and easy to clean.

Also, the less "bright" your window sills, the better, so keep that in mind while shopping.

Do Window Sills And Floors Need To Match?

No, you don't need to perfectly match your window sills and floors. Unlike the window frame, trim, and sills, the floor is its own entity.

Therefore, we don't believe you need to focus too much on those colors. However, you should try to make everything look cohesive, so if you have a warm floor, try to keep your sill a warmer tone.

On top of that, you can also keep your window sill an easy-to-match white, which is what most people do.

In general, it's best to be as plain as possible for the window area, regardless of the rest of your house's theming/aesthetic.

Should All Window Sills In A House Match?

Yes! It is a good idea to paint all your window sills the same color/finish. Like the window frames, you should choose one color and stick with it for the entirety of your home.

The same can be said about the doors, so if you're lost for ideas, paint them all white! As we mentioned above, grey, beige, and brown/tan are alternative hues for this space, so you don't need to choose white all the time.

With that said, if you have the trim in one room grey and beige in another, we recommend matching your sills to that given trim color.

Each room in your home may have its own theme, so try to work around that if you aren't keeping things the same throughout.

Additionally, you could try warmer or lighter shades of the same hue between the rooms in your space, although we don't see much point in doing this.

What Type Of Paint Do I Use For A Window Sill?

Now that you know what colors to use for the window sills throughout your home, you want to find the correct paint finish/formula.

According to experts, most common interior paints won't have enough body for the window sill. Instead, you need to use gloss or semi-gloss acrylic or latex enamel paint.

We recommend these options because they dry evenly and are easier to clean. Remember, the window sill can be a dirty, dusty spot, so you need to make upkeep as easy as possible.

Furthermore, most thick, slightly glossy paints will hold out for much longer than other options. If you have the paint you used for your trim, you could also consider using that for sills.

As long as the formula you use promises to be glossy, even, and durable, it should be perfect for the window area, including the sill.

Can I Paint A Window Sill Matte?

Although you can try using matte paint for a window sill, this may not be the best idea. Considering matte paints tend to trap dust, dirt, and debris, it can become a mess rather quickly.

Therefore, if you are a neat freak (or don't like dirt/dust everywhere), having your window sills attract it can be a nightmare come true.

Moreover, matte paints are not easy to wipe off. Imagine trying to clean a flat surface with a wet cloth. You're working against the grade, which can result in paint damage.

On top of that, matte paint rarely lasts as long as glossier finishes. That is because it doesn't fight traffic as well as shinier options and can become damaged if you rub it too hard.

So, if you're on the fence, we recommend finding a window sill paint with at least a satin or minimally glossy finish to keep your home cleaner and fresh-looking longer.

Majic Paints Diamond Hard Acrylic Enamel High Gloss Paint

This interior/exterior paint has an acrylic enamel formula, high gloss finish, works for trim and window areas, is low odor and non-flammable, and comes in various colors.

Follow this link to see it on Amazon.

How Do You Paint An Interior Window Sill?

For anyone ready to paint their window sills, this is easier than you'd think. To begin, you'll need:

• Drop cloth
• Spackle
• An angled paintbrush
• A sponge/rag
• Sandpaper
• White vinegar
• Painter's tape
• Primer (if needed)
• Semi-gloss paint

When you have all of the required materials:

1. Lay down your drop cloth and remove as much old paint as possible.
2. Fill any holes or uneven sections with a spackle and let it dry.
3. Grab your sandpaper and sand down any rough areas.
4. Clean the window area with a warm, soapy rag or sponge.
5. Tape around the window sill to avoid paint everywhere.
6. Use your paintbrush and prime the window sill entirely.
7. Grab your paint and apply it to the primed sill.
8. Remove your tape and allow the fresh paint to dry.

Of course, you may need to wait longer/shorter periods between the primer and paint depending on the formula, so keep that in mind.

Furthermore, if your semi-gloss paint has a built-in primer, we don't believe you need to use any additional product before applying it to your window sill.

What Color Should You Paint A Window Frame?

If you need help choosing a color for your window frame, it's generally best to match it to your sill and trim. However, if you have a more vibrant wall color, like blue or green, you may want to use the same color all the way to your window.

Doing this can continue your existing aesthetic while giving your window that "finished" look. If you paint a window frame white with beige walls, this can look good but will make the area stand out.

Again, that's not necessarily bad, so it comes down to your style.

This color choice will also depend on the type of windows you have; again, every home is different.

To Finish It Up

Finding the right color is essential if you need to redo your windows and want inspiration for a new build. From what we found, neutral tones like white, grey, beige, and even brown/tan can work.

In general, it's best to have your window sill be on the plainer side so it doesn't attract too much attention. Considering this area will collect dust and dirt, we recommend having your paint be easy to clean.

Specifically, a semi-gloss option will last the longest and be the easiest to maintain, so keep that in mind while shopping.

Regardless, find a window sill paint that works for your home, and don't forget to prime the area beforehand!

Made it to the end? Check out these helpful related home posts below!

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