Yes, you can paint vinyl siding. That’s good news. The bad news is that you need to take a few things into consideration first. Painting siding is a big job. Before you grab a brush and a bucket of paint, follow the 10 tips here.
If your siding is looking rough, make sure it doesn’t need to be replaced before you paint it. If it has some dings and scratches, you can renew it with paint.
Watch for these signs that it needs a full replacement:
Before you make any changes to your siding, check the manufacturer’s warranty. In some cases, making changes to the siding will void the warranty. If your siding is out of warranty or the warranty allows painting, you are good to go.
For the best results, start with siding that’s free from dust and grime. In a large bucket, mix the following to create a cleaning solution:
Use a soft cloth to apply this solution to your siding from top to bottom. This will wipe out dirt, germs, mildew, and stains.
Hose it down thoroughly to rinse it. Let your vinyl dry before you paint.
You should use acrylic exterior grade or latex urethane paint. Choose paint with a satin or eggshell finish to make it easier to clean.
Always paint vinyl in the shade or in the hours when the sun is not too strong. If the sun dries the paint too quickly, you can get streaks and lumps. Keep the paint wet as you work.
When it comes to color, most experts recommend using a color that’s a similar shade or a shade lighter than the vinyl’s current color. Using a darker color might cause the vinyl to warp. A dark color also destroys the insulating quality of your vinyl.
That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with boring colors. Several paint manufacturers now have paint collections specifically made for use on vinyl. You can find attractive, stylish colors in shades of blue, gray, green and taupe.
In most cases, you won’t need a primer. Begin with a single thin layer of paint. You can use brushes, rollers or a paint sprayer. Don’t forget to cut in the edges while you’re working.
Allow the first layer to dry almost completely before you apply the second coat. You should wait a full day after painting to ensure that both coats are completely dry.
Wood: Like all wooden surfaces, wooden siding takes well to paint or stain. If you choose to stain, make sure you use the same type of stain that the manufacturer originally used on the wood.
Steel: You can paint steel, but it’s important to remove rust stains first.
Stucco: Stucco isn’t technically siding. It’s a popular choice in some areas of the country. You can paint stucco.
Masonry: Brick and concrete are easy to paint. A good paint job will last for many years on masonry surfaces.
Your freshly-painted siding will look fresh and beautiful. If you use a good quality paint, your paint job could last up to 10 years.
If you’ve decided that you’d rather spring for new siding, or if you need to repair your siding before you paint it, give us a call. Last Call Exteriors has the knowledge and experience to help you make the right decision for your home.
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