Window Frame Colours: Ideas & Top Tips

• Posted by David Large
• 2 August 2023
• News

Key Takeaway: Choosing Your Window Frame Colour

What’s the best colour for window frames? There’s no universal “best” shade—the ideal colour depends on your home’s architecture, your local climate, and your personal design goals. The most popular window frame colours in 2025 are Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), Jet Black (RAL 9005), Agate Grey (RAL 7032), and sustainable earth tones for eco-conscious homes.

Why it matters: Your window frame colour impacts kerb appeal, affects how interior spaces feel, influences resale value, and will remain visible for 20-30+ years. Choosing the right shade requires balancing aesthetics, durability, and long-term design appeal.

Top trending options in 2025: Modern greys dominate UK properties, with Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) remaining the #1 choice for two consecutive years, followed by bold Jet Black (RAL 9005) for contemporary designs, warm-toned Agate Grey (RAL 7032) for traditional properties, and sustainable greens (Olive RAL 6006, Moss RAL 6005) for eco-focused builds.

What Are Window Frame Colours and Why Do They Matter?

Window frame colours are more than aesthetic choices—they’re design decisions that determine the visual character of your home’s exterior while influencing how interior spaces feel and function. Your window frames are visible from both inside and outside your property, making colour selection one of the most important decisions in home renovation.

Modern uPVC and aluminium frames offer extensive colour options, from classic whites to sophisticated blacks, natural wood-effects, and textured matte finishes. These durable frames maintain vibrant colours for decades without cracking, rotting, or fading like traditional painted timber. Unlike temporary design elements, window frames are permanent fixtures lasting 20-30+ years, making colour selection a significant investment requiring careful consideration.

Your chosen colour affects perceived home value, kerb appeal, how naturally lit your interior spaces appear, and whether your home coordinates cohesively with neighbouring properties. A well-chosen window frame colour enhances your property’s architectural character; a mismatched shade can detract from its appeal regardless of quality.

How to Choose the Right Window Frame Colour: 4 Essential Factors

Factor 1: Your Home’s Architectural Style

Different architectural styles suit different colours. Understanding your home’s era and design helps narrow options significantly.

• Traditional/Victorian homes: White (RAL 9016), Cream (RAL 9001), Dark Grey (RAL 7016), or Sage Green complement period properties beautifully
• Modern/Contemporary builds: Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), Jet Black (RAL 9005), Window Grey (RAL 7040), and slate finishes enhance minimalist architecture
• Red brick properties: Neutral earth tones, sage greens, and warm greys work harmoniously with warm brick tones
• Stone/heritage properties: White, light greys, natural wood-effects, and muted greens blend authentically with historic materials

Crown Windows has spent more than 20 years specialising in windows across Aylesbury and surrounding areas, helping thousands of clients coordinate their homes’ aesthetics with long-lasting, high-quality products.

Factor 2: Your Local Climate & Environment

Your location’s weather patterns affect window frame colour maintenance and durability.

• Hot climates: Light colours (White, Cream) reflect heat and light away from your home, keeping it cool. Dark colours absorb heat, potentially causing frame stress or cracking
• Coastal areas: Grey and dark finishes resist fading better than light colours when exposed to salt spray and UV rays
• UK climate: Consider rainfall, fog, and pollution effects. Darker colours hide dirt better and age gracefully; lighter shades show maintenance requirements more obviously
• High-UV areas: Light shades fade less noticeably than dark colours under prolonged sun exposure

Factor 3: Neighbouring Colours & Kerb Appeal

Your immediate neighbourhood influences which colours appear most appealing and maintain value.

• Observe neighbouring properties’ window colours—popular choices in your area indicate proven suitability
• Coordinate exterior colours for neighbourhood cohesion while expressing individual style
• Assess how your chosen colour will coordinate with front doors, render colours, and roof materials
• Properties with cohesive exterior design coordinate colours to create visual harmony

Factor 4: Durability & Maintenance Requirements

Different colours have different practical maintenance implications.

• Light colours (White, Cream, Light Grey): Show dirt, fingerprints, and dust more readily; require more frequent cleaning but hide UV fading better
• Dark colours (Black, Charcoal, Deep Grey): Hide dust and dirt better but fade more noticeably under intense UV exposure; show maintenance neglect less obviously
• Matte finishes: Hide dirt differently than glossy finishes; require different cleaning approaches
• Wood-effects: Textured finishes add visual interest; require specific maintenance products to preserve appearance

Project – White UPVC Bay & Casement Window Installation

Most Popular Window Frame Colours in 2025: Trending Shades & RAL Codes

1. Anthracite Grey – RAL 7016
   The UK’s #1 window frame choice for two consecutive years, Anthracite Grey offers sophistication without appearing as bold as black. This deep, charcoal-toned grey works beautifully with both modern and traditional properties, doesn’t show dirt easily, and provides versatile pairing with white render, cream walls, and red brick exteriors. Modern extensions and contemporary renovations frequently feature RAL 7016.
2. Jet Black – RAL 9005
   Modern, sophisticated, and dramatic, Jet Black creates strong contrast against light-coloured walls and suits large-format glazing, industrial architecture, and contemporary extensions. This bold choice signals premium design; however, it absorbs heat and requires well-lit spaces to avoid appearing heavy. Popular for homes prioritising statement aesthetics over subtle integration.
3. Agate Grey – RAL 7032
   Emerging as a top trend in 2025, Agate Grey offers a warmer alternative to Anthracite with subtle brown undertones. This shade suits heritage properties, Scandinavian designs, and homes preferring less dramatic contrast than pure Anthracite. It bridges traditional warmth with contemporary sophistication, making it increasingly popular for sustainability-focused builds.
4. Window Grey – RAL 7040
   This lighter grey offers a cleaner, airier alternative to Anthracite Grey. Perfect for contemporary builds prioritising minimalist aesthetics, RAL 7040 complements modern architecture while maintaining sophistication. It reflects light better than darker greys, making interiors feel more spacious.
5. Slate Grey – RAL 7015
   Industrial-inspired with versatile pairing potential, Slate Grey (RAL 7015) suits both traditional and modern homes. This medium-toned grey provides balance between dramatic impact and subtle integration, working well with diverse exterior colours.
6. Sustainable Earth Tones: Olive & Moss Green
   Growing eco-conscious building trends favour natural earth tones. Moss Green (RAL 6005) and Olive (RAL 6006) blend harmoniously with landscapes, particularly in countryside properties and eco-development projects. These colours represent environmental responsibility while offering warmth and natural connection.
7. Classic White – RAL 9016 & Cream – RAL 9001
   Timeless options that never fall out of favour, white and cream suit virtually any property style. White signifies cleanliness and spaciousness; cream offers warmth. Both remain universally appealing to diverse buyer demographics, making them smart choices for resale value consideration.
8. Wood-Effect & Natural Finishes
   Next-generation wood-decor finishes (Brushed Oak, Turner Oak, natural wood textures) offer warmth and depth without timber maintenance requirements. These textured, tactile finishes suit upscale residential properties, traditional settings, and homes prioritising natural aesthetics with modern durability.

How Window Frame Colours Affect Mood & Ambiance

Colours influence psychological responses and emotional atmospheres in surprising ways. Understanding colour psychology helps you choose shades that create desired feelings in your home.

• Warm colours (earthy browns, golden yellows, warm reds): Evoke comfort, warmth, and invitation. These colours increase energy and encourage sociability, making them ideal for living rooms, dining areas, and social spaces.
• Cool colours (blues, greens, soft greys): Promote calmness, focus, and tranquility. These shades reduce stress and encourage relaxation, perfect for bedrooms, home offices, and bathrooms.
• Neutral tones (white, cream, taupe, soft greys): Create spaciousness, clarity, and adaptability. Neutral shades work universally across room types and design styles, offering timeless appeal.
• Dark colours (black, charcoal, deep grey): Convey sophistication, elegance, and luxury. In well-lit spaces, dark frames create intimate, cosy atmospheres and add dramatic visual impact. They signal quality and attention to detail.

Window frames aren’t merely functional—they’re design elements influencing how you and guests feel within your spaces. Choosing colours aligned with your desired atmosphere enhances your home’s emotional appeal and personal satisfaction.

Why Natural Light Matters: How Sunlight Changes Window Frame Colours

Natural light dramatically affects how window frame colours appear throughout the day and across seasons.

• Light colours (White, Cream, Light Grey): Reflect natural light, making rooms feel more spacious and airier. These shades appear brighter and more vibrant under sunlight, enhancing morning illumination and maintaining brightness even on overcast days.
• Dark colours (Black, Anthracite, Deep Grey): Absorb light, creating cozier, more intimate atmospheres. These shades may appear different depending on time of day and weather conditions—deeper at dusk, lighter in bright afternoon sun.

Time-of-day effects: North-facing windows display cooler colour tones; south-facing windows enhance warmer perceptions. Morning light differs significantly from evening light, affecting colour appearance throughout the day.

Seasonal variations: Colours appear more vivid during bright summer months with intense daylight. Winter brings muted tones as daylight hours decrease and natural light becomes cooler and dimmer. Viewing colour samples at different seasons ensures accurate assessment.

UV exposure impact: Prolonged ultraviolet exposure can fade certain colours over time, particularly dark shades in high-sun areas. Testing colour samples under your specific lighting conditions before purchase prevents unexpected disappointment.

Dual-Colour Windows: Bold Exteriors, Bright Interiors

Modern window design allows different frame colours on interiors and exteriors, enabling homeowners to achieve dramatic kerb appeal while maintaining bright, spacious interiors.

Exterior options: Bold colours like Jet Black (RAL 9005), Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), or Slate Grey (RAL 7015) provide striking kerb appeal and contemporary sophistication.

Interior options: Bright whites (RAL 9016), creams (RAL 9001), or natural wood tones maintain light, airy interior spaces without overwhelming interiors with dark colours.

Popular combinations:

• Black exterior + White interior: Maximum contrast, premium aesthetic
• Anthracite exterior + Oak finish interior: Modern meets warmth
• Slate Grey exterior + Cream interior: Balanced sophistication

Benefits: Dual-colour frames let you achieve modern, dramatic exteriors without compromising interior brightness and spaciousness. This option suits contemporary extensions, urban properties, and homes with heritage interiors requiring light, neutral frames inside.

Crown Windows specialises in dual-colour frame installations, allowing clients the best of both worlds—bold exterior statements with bright, fresh interior environments.

5 Practical Steps to Test Window Frame Colours Before Purchase

Testing colours before committing prevents costly mistakes and ensures satisfaction with your final choice.

• Step 1: Request Physical Colour Samples
  Obtain actual frame samples from your manufacturer or showroom. View samples in your home’s natural lighting at morning, afternoon, and evening to assess appearance throughout the day. Hold samples against your exterior walls and interior décor to evaluate actual compatibility.
• Step 2: Digitally Edit Your Home Photos
  Use design tools (Photoshop, Canva, free online editors) to visualise how colours would appear on your specific property. Create digital mockups with multiple colour options and compare side-by-side. Share visualisations with family members for collaborative feedback.
• Step 3: Assess Neighbouring Properties
  Drive around your neighbourhood to observe similar colours in real-world context. Photograph homes featuring your preferred colours. Note which colours appear most appealing, age well, and maintain aesthetic value long-term.
• Step 4: Consider Interior-Exterior Coordination
  View colour samples both from inside and outside your home. Ensure your chosen exterior colour complements interior room décor and wall colours. Check how the colour appears against interior surfaces and furniture.
• Step 5: Consult Your Glazier or Designer
  Professional specialists offer invaluable guidance based on extensive experience. Access inspirational project galleries showcasing colours on similar properties. Expert insight ensures your colour choice suits your specific property, climate, and aesthetic goals.

Best Window Frame Colours for Different Home Styles

Matching colours to your home’s architectural style ensures aesthetic cohesion and lasting satisfaction.

• For Red Brick Victorian/Edwardian Homes:
  Best choices: White (RAL 9016), Cream (RAL 9001), Dark Grey (RAL 7016). These neutral tones let architectural features shine without competing with warm brick tones. Avoid bright, vibrant colours that clash with period character.
• For Modern Render/Concrete Homes:
  Best choices: Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), Jet Black (RAL 9005), Window Grey (RAL 7040). Clean, contemporary colours enhance minimalist architecture. Consider accent colours (sage green, slate blue) for design expression.
• For Stone & Period Properties:
  Best choices: White, Light Grey, natural wood tones, muted greens. Check conservation area requirements before colour selection, as some areas require specific colours for heritage preservation.
• For Countryside/Rural Homes:
  Best choices: Natural earth tones (Olive Green RAL 6006, Browns, Creams). Wood-effect finishes provide farmhouse aesthetics. These colours blend harmoniously with natural surroundings and rural landscapes.
• For Contemporary Extensions:
  Best choices: Anthracite Grey exterior + White interior (dual-colour) or pure Jet Black for maximum impact. Modern colours define architectural statements and create visual distinction from original properties.

How Window Frame Colours Affect Home Resale Value & Kerb Appeal

Window frame colour influences perceived property value and buyer appeal significantly.

Neutral colours command higher resale value: White, Cream, and Grey appeal to broader buyer demographics. Most homebuyers prefer safe, universally-appealing shades, making neutral colours smart long-term investments.

Bold colours risky for resale: While aesthetically pleasing to current owners, non-traditional colours (bright reds, purples, blues) may deter potential buyers. Properties must appeal to majority preferences for optimal resale positioning.

Kerb appeal directly impacts first impressions: Quality, well-maintained window frames in cohesive colours significantly increase perceived property value. Professional-looking exteriors signal property care and attention to detail.

Investment perspective: Modern neutral colours (Anthracite Grey) appeal to contemporary buyers while working with both traditional and new construction. These shades offer best balance of personal satisfaction and resale security.

Maintenance visibility: Well-maintained frames in sophisticated colours (Jet Black, Deep Grey) signal property pride and careful ownership. Properties with coordinated window colours and matching doors/render command 3-5% higher asking prices in UK markets.

The Best Window Colour For Your Home

Crown Windows has designed and installed thousands of coloured frames for windows and conservatories across Milton Keynes and surrounding areas. As specialists in double glazing with 20+ years experience, our highly experienced team guides homeowners through every stage from concept to completion.

Ready to choose your perfect window frame colour? Contact Crown Windows today to book your free design consultation. Our team will help you navigate colour selection with confidence, access our inspirational project gallery, and ensure your chosen shade perfectly complements your home for decades to come.