Anthracite grey has become a popular choice for UPVC windows and doors across the UK. Its dark, modern appearance works well with brick, render, stone and contemporary exterior finishes.
If your existing UPVC windows are still in good condition, you do not necessarily need to replace them to achieve the anthracite grey look.
Professional UPVC spraying can transform white, brown or dated frames into RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey, often at a much lower cost than replacing the complete windows and doors.
Quick answer: Yes, white UPVC windows and doors can be sprayed anthracite grey. The existing surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared before a specialist coating is applied. When professionally sprayed, the result can provide a smooth, durable finish that dramatically changes the appearance of your property.
RAL 7016 is officially known as Anthracite Grey.
It is part of the RAL colour system, which is widely used across construction, manufacturing, decorating and industrial coatings to identify consistent colours.
Anthracite Grey is a deep, dark grey that can appear slightly different depending on the lighting, surface texture and level of gloss.
It works particularly well alongside:
If you are considering RAL 7016, it is always worth viewing a physical colour sample before making your final decision because colours displayed on phones and computer screens are not always accurate.
You can also view our RAL colour chart or read our guide to the best UPVC paint colours.
Yes.
RAL 7016 is the RAL colour code for Anthracite Grey.
However, two anthracite grey surfaces can sometimes appear slightly different.
This can happen because of differences in:
For example, an anthracite grey foiled window with a woodgrain texture may look slightly different next to a smooth sprayed RAL 7016 window even though the colour is intended to be the same.
For the closest possible match, compare physical samples next to the existing window, door or garage door.
Anthracite Grey is not the only dark grey available.
Some homeowners compare several RAL shades before deciding.
| RAL Code | Colour | Appearance Compared With RAL 7016 |
|---|---|---|
| RAL 7016 | Anthracite Grey | Deep, modern dark grey |
| RAL 7015 | Slate Grey | Slightly lighter grey |
| RAL 7021 | Black Grey | Darker and closer to black |
| RAL 7039 | Quartz Grey | Softer and warmer grey |
| RAL 9005 | Jet Black | True black |
If you want a modern dark-grey appearance without going completely black, RAL 7016 is often a strong option.
Yes.
White UPVC windows can be professionally sprayed anthracite grey without replacing the frames.
The process involves preparing the existing UPVC surface so that the new coating can properly bond to it.
The glass, rubber seals, walls and surrounding areas are protected before the colour is sprayed onto the frames.
This means you can completely change the exterior appearance of your property while keeping the existing windows.
Professional spraying is particularly suitable when the windows are structurally sound but the existing colour looks dated.
Yes.
Brown, cream and other coloured UPVC frames can usually also be sprayed.
The preparation process is particularly important when changing from a darker existing colour because the new coating must provide even and consistent coverage.
A professional sprayer will inspect the surface before starting to make sure it is suitable for coating.
Yes.
Many homeowners choose to spray only the exterior of their UPVC windows.
For example, you could have:
Outside: RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey
Inside: Original white UPVC
This allows you to modernise the outside of your property without changing the appearance of the rooms inside.
You can also choose to spray both sides if you want the same colour internally and externally.
If you have recently installed new anthracite grey windows or doors and want your older UPVC to match, there are a few things to check.
Many factory-produced coloured windows use a foil finish rather than paint.
Foiled windows can also have a woodgrain texture.
A professionally sprayed finish is generally smooth, so the colour may be very close while the surface texture is slightly different.
Before spraying, check whether the existing window or door is:
Your sprayer can then recommend the closest suitable finish.
Whenever possible, compare a physical sample against the existing window rather than relying on photographs.
The finish can make a noticeable difference to the final appearance.
UPVC coatings are available in different sheen levels depending on the coating system being used.
Common options can include:
A satin or semi-matt finish is often chosen for modern exterior UPVC because it gives a clean appearance without excessive shine.
If you are trying to match existing windows or doors, the finish should be considered alongside the RAL colour.
Dark surfaces generally absorb more heat from sunlight than lighter colours.
This means anthracite grey UPVC can become warmer than white UPVC when exposed to strong direct sunlight.
UPVC naturally expands and contracts as temperatures change, so it is worth discussing particularly sunny elevations with your sprayer.
South-facing and west-facing windows can receive strong sunlight for long periods during warmer weather.
Depending on the coating system and application, specialist formulations may be recommended for darker colours.
A professional sprayer should be able to explain which coating system is appropriate for your property.
It is possible to buy RAL 7016 UPVC paint and aerosol products.
DIY spraying may be suitable for small objects or minor repairs, but spraying complete windows and doors can be more difficult than it first appears.
The preparation is one of the most important parts of the job.
The surface normally needs to be:
Glass, seals, handles, hinges and surrounding brickwork must also be protected.
When aerosols or unsuitable equipment are used on large surfaces, it can be difficult to achieve consistent coverage.
Problems can include:
Weather conditions also need to be suitable during application.
If you are considering doing the work yourself, read our guide: Can you spray UPVC yourself?.
You can also read our guide explaining what spray paint to use on UPVC.
Professional UPVC spraying involves much more than simply applying paint to the frames.
Proper preparation helps create a cleaner finish and allows the coating to bond correctly.
The existing windows and doors are checked to make sure the surfaces are suitable for spraying.
Damaged or severely deteriorated frames may need repair or replacement instead.
The chosen RAL colour and finish are confirmed before work begins.
For anthracite grey, this will normally be RAL 7016.
The UPVC is thoroughly cleaned to remove:
Good preparation is essential for a professional finish.
The surface is prepared so that the specialist coating can properly adhere to the UPVC.
The exact preparation method depends on the coating system being used.
Areas that are not being sprayed are carefully protected.
These can include:
Professional masking helps produce clean edges and prevents overspray.
A specialist coating suitable for UPVC is sprayed evenly across the prepared surfaces.
The number of coats and application method depend on the particular coating system and manufacturer requirements.
Once the coating has been applied, it needs time to cure.
The masking can then be removed carefully.
The finished frames are inspected to check:
Once complete, the original white or coloured windows can look completely different.
Anthracite grey is not limited to UPVC windows.
The same colour can be used across several exterior surfaces, depending on the material and coating system.
Examples include:
Using the same RAL colour across several exterior features can create a more consistent appearance.
Spraying existing UPVC windows can dramatically change the exterior appearance of a property.
Instead of replacing perfectly functional white frames simply because of their colour, spraying allows you to retain the existing windows while giving them a modern finish.
RAL 7016 works particularly well when combined with modern doors, grey rooflines and contemporary exterior improvements.
Front and back doors can also be sprayed RAL 7016.
An anthracite grey UPVC door can create a more modern entrance without replacing the entire door.
Doors can often be sprayed together with the windows so that the colour remains consistent across the property.
Garage doors are another popular surface to coordinate with RAL 7016 windows.
If the garage door is a different colour, it can stand out after the windows have been changed.
Spraying the garage door in the same anthracite grey can help create a consistent exterior colour scheme.
The cost of spraying UPVC depends on the size and complexity of the job rather than simply the colour chosen.
Factors that can affect the price include:
Anthracite grey is a standard RAL colour, so the main cost normally comes from the amount of preparation and spraying involved.
If you want an accurate price, the easiest option is usually to send photographs of the windows and doors you want sprayed.
We can then assess the property and provide a quotation based on the actual work required.
For more information, read our UPVC spraying cost guide and our guide to UPVC window painting costs.
If your existing windows are in good condition, spraying can be considerably more economical than replacing the entire window system simply to change its colour.
When you replace windows, you are paying for:
With spraying, the existing window remains in place.
The work is focused on changing the appearance rather than replacing the complete unit.
However, spraying should not be used to hide genuine window problems.
Spraying usually makes sense when the windows are functioning correctly and you mainly want to update their appearance.
Spraying changes the appearance of the windows.
It cannot repair failed glazing, damaged frames or mechanical problems.
Read more in our guide: Does UPVC spraying work? An honest answer.
The lifespan of a sprayed finish depends heavily on:
A specialist exterior UPVC coating is designed to withstand outdoor conditions and UV exposure.
Correct preparation is particularly important because even a good coating can fail if it is applied to an improperly prepared surface.
For more information, read our guide: How long does spray painting UPVC windows last?.
Quality exterior coatings are designed to resist UV exposure and weathering.
However, every exterior surface is exposed to sunlight, rain, dirt and changing temperatures.
Over many years, some gradual weathering is normal.
The quality of the coating and the preparation work both influence how well the finish performs over time.
Read more in our guide: Is spray paint UV resistant?.
Sprayed UPVC is generally straightforward to maintain.
For normal cleaning:
Avoid abrasive pads, harsh solvents and aggressive chemical cleaners unless the coating manufacturer specifically states that they are safe.
Pressure washers should also be used carefully around seals, joints and recently coated surfaces.
RAL 7016 works with many different property styles, but the best colour ultimately depends on the building.
Anthracite grey can look particularly effective on:
It can also create an attractive contrast against light render or stone.
For traditional properties, some homeowners prefer softer greys or heritage colours instead.
Viewing a colour sample against your property's brickwork or render can make the decision much easier.
Yes.
One of the advantages of using the RAL system is that the same colour reference can be specified across several surfaces.
For example, you could choose RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey for:
This can create a more coordinated appearance across the property.
The exact appearance can still vary slightly depending on the material, surface texture and sheen level, so samples are useful when matching new and existing products.
One of the biggest benefits of RAL 7016 spraying is how much it can change the appearance of an existing property.
White UPVC can sometimes stand out strongly against modern exterior finishes.
Changing the frames to anthracite grey can create a darker, more contemporary appearance without replacing the complete windows.
A typical transformation may involve:
Before: White UPVC windows and doors
After: RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey
Existing frames: Retained
Glass: Retained
Main change: Exterior colour and appearance
Adding genuine before-and-after photographs from completed projects is one of the best ways to see whether anthracite grey would suit your own home.
Suggested image alt text:White UPVC windows sprayed anthracite grey RAL 7016 before and after
Yes. RAL 7016 is officially named Anthracite Grey within the RAL colour system.
Yes. Existing white UPVC can normally be professionally prepared and sprayed RAL 7016 without replacing the complete windows.
Yes. Many homeowners keep the inside of their windows white while changing only the exterior to anthracite grey.
Yes. Brown, cream and other coloured UPVC surfaces can often be sprayed, provided they are suitable for coating.
In most cases, UPVC windows are sprayed while they remain installed. The surrounding glass, walls, seals and other surfaces are masked and protected.
Yes. UPVC and suitable composite doors can often be sprayed anthracite grey to match the windows.
Yes. Suitable garage doors can also be sprayed RAL 7016 so they coordinate with the windows and doors.
No. RAL 7016 is a very dark grey, but it is noticeably different from a true black such as RAL 9005.
The difference may appear more or less noticeable depending on the light.
It can work very well with red brick because the dark grey provides a strong contrast against warmer brick tones.
However, colour choice is personal, so viewing a sample against the property is recommended.
Yes. Anthracite grey is commonly paired with white, cream and light-grey render because the darker frames create contrast.
Exterior coatings are designed to withstand UV exposure and weather conditions, although gradual weathering can occur over many years.
The quality of the coating and preparation both affect durability.
A professionally applied specialist coating can provide a long-lasting finish when the surface has been correctly prepared and maintained.
The expected lifespan will depend on the coating system, property exposure and maintenance.
It depends on the condition of the windows.
If the windows are functioning correctly and you simply want a different colour, spraying may be a more economical option.
If the windows are damaged, badly warped or inefficient, replacement may be more appropriate.
DIY UPVC paints are available, but achieving a consistent professional finish across complete windows requires careful preparation, masking and spraying equipment.
Read our full guide to spraying UPVC yourself.
If your existing UPVC windows and doors are still in good condition but you want a more modern appearance, spraying them RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey could completely transform the exterior of your property.
Instead of replacing perfectly usable frames, professional spraying allows you to change their colour while keeping the existing windows in place.
We can spray windows, doors, garage doors and other suitable exterior surfaces to create a coordinated finish.
If you are considering anthracite grey, send us photographs of your existing UPVC and we can provide a free, no-obligation quote.
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