The worst part of painting windows is the painstaking process of carefully coating the frame without accidentally getting paint on the glass panes. Until recently, the best solution was to apply painter’s tape to the glass—a particularly time-consuming undertaking. However, one recent product is making the process much simpler.

With liquid masking tape, painting around glass windows has never been easier. Learn how to use liquid masking tape to save time and effort when painting windows.

What Is Liquid Masking Tape?

Liquid masking tape is a product that can be painted onto a glass surface, then peeled off after it dries—taking any paint on top of it with it. It works by permanently adhering to the wood surfaces, while easily peeling from smooth glass.

Using liquid masking tape to paint windows saves significant time and ensures a better finished look than you’ll normally get with painter’s tape.

How to Use Liquid Masking Tape on Windows

Once you use liquid masking tape on windows, you’ll likely never go back to the traditional taping method. Here’s how to do it:

Apply the product: Clean and dry the windows thoroughly, removing any debris, grease, or oily residue. Use a paintbrush to apply the liquid masking tape to the windows. Don’t worry if you get some on the wood, as it will permanently adhere to the wood beneath the paint. If you’re spraying the windows, cover the entire glass surface with liquid masking tape. If you’re brushing, simply cover the edges of the glass. Let the product dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most liquid masking products turn clean once they’re dry.

Paint the windows: Paint the windows as normal, allowing the paint to overflow onto the liquid masking area to ensure full coverage of the wood. Unless otherwise specified by the instructions on your liquid masking product, let the paint dry before attempting to remove the liquid masking tape.

Score, peel, and scrape: Score the edges of the window to cut through the paint and liquid masking tape. This ensures the liquid masking tape leaves a crisp edge. Slowly peel the liquid masking tape from the window, pulling the paint with it. If you’re having trouble getting started, use a razor blade to lift up the edge of the liquid masking tape. Scrape any remaining residue of paint or liquid masking tape from the window using a razor blade.

Tips for Using Liquid Masking Tape Effectively

As the steps above show, using liquid masking tape to paint windows is a fairly straightforward process. However, here are some tips for effectively using liquid masking tape to ensure your success and prevent damage to your windows.

Always score the edges: While you may be tempted to peel the liquid masking tape without scoring the edges, you shouldn’t skip this step. Doing so could result in the liquid masking tape peeling from the wood, pulling your paint with it.

Only paint smooth glass: Liquid masking tape doesn’t work well on glass surfaces that aren’t perfectly smooth. If you can’t safely scrape it using a utility knife, don’t apply liquid masking tape to it.

Let the product fully dry: While you may be tempted to start painting right away, be sure to let the liquid masking tape fully dry before painting over it.

Apply a thick layer of liquid masking tape: Applying too thin of a layer of liquid masking tape can result in uneven coverage, which will compromise the product’s ability to peel away cleanly. In some cases, it may be beneficial to apply a second coat of liquid masking tape after the first layer dries.

Always use a brand-new razor blade: Before scraping the glass, make sure you install a brand-new razor blade to your scraper. Using an old blade can scratch the glass.

Don’t skimp on the coverage: Don’t be afraid to thoroughly coat the glass. The more protection you add with the liquid masking tape, the quicker and easier it is to paint the windows.