Paint can last many years on vinyl siding, depending on factors like the paint quality, surface preparation, climate and weather, sun exposure, application technique and maintenance. Adequate surface prep combined with regular cleaning and maintenance can significantly impact the lifespan of the topcoat.
How to Paint Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding offers impressive durability and low maintenance, making it a popular choice for homeowners. But you may be wondering, can you paint vinyl siding? Applying a fresh coat of paint can work wonders by delivering a revamped look to your home and an added layer of protection from the elements. The key to success with this DIY project is choosing the right products and proper surface preparation, which is where Sherwin-Williams can help! This comprehensive guide touches on the benefits of completing this project, tips and tricks to achieve results you love, detailed instructions and answers to frequently asked questions.
Painting Vinyl Siding: Key Considerations
Pros & Cons of Painting Vinyl Siding
Painting vinyl siding has several benefits, starting with the chance to revitalize your home's exterior and boost curb appeal. You can also pick a color that suits your preferences, whether that's a sophisticated neutral or a head-turning hue.
It's also important to consider the drawbacks of this project. First, you'll want to check with your siding manufacturer if painting it will void any remaining warranty. The manufacturer can also offer product-specific pointers to ensure a quality paint job. Lastly, consider the project's difficulty and cost to ensure it fits your timeframe and budget.
Vinyl Siding Paint Colors
Another crucial piece of the puzzle is selecting the right vinyl siding paint colors. For example, painting vinyl with any color darker than the original shade can cause warping and other defects. However, you can bypass this stipulation and relieve worry by selecting from Sherwin-Williams vinyl siding paint colors. We offer a wide range of VinylSafe® Colors that are uniquely formulated to resist warping and buckling - including an array of bold, dark colors!
Instructions for Painting Vinyl Siding
Step 1
Prep Vinyl Siding for Paint
Understanding how to prep vinyl siding for paint is essential, as it will allow the topcoat to adhere as intended. Start by cleaning the siding with Simple Green House and Siding Cleaner, a powerful formula designed to remove built-up pollutants, dirt and grime. Following label directions, you can use this cleaning solution manually or in a pressure washer. Then, rinse the cleaner with a hose and let the siding dry.
Tip: Creating a clean surface before applying paint is a universal rule, but it's particularly imperative when painting vinyl siding. Your home's siding continually gathers dust, dirt, pollutants and other natural grime that requires deep cleaning to remove. That's why we recommend using Simple Green House and Siding Cleaner.
Step 2
Place Painter's Tape & Plastic Sheeting
Once the siding has dried fully from cleaning, it's time to place painter's tape around the areas you want to protect from paint. We recommend putting painter's tape around windows, shutters, electrical outlets and decorative fixtures. It's also good to cover nearby shrubs and other greenery with plastic sheeting to protect them from paint drips and spills.
Step 3
Paint Vinyl Siding
Now, it's time to start painting your vinyl siding with a paint sprayer, roller or brush! We recommend using our best paint for exterior siding: Emerald® Exterior Acrylic Latex. This high-quality exterior paint-and-primer-in-one offers impressive adhesion, hide and durability, all crucial features for vinyl siding. Plus, this paint is available in our VinylSafe® Colors!
Thanks to the exceptional adhesion properties of Emerald® Exterior Acrylic Latex, it's not required to prime vinyl siding that's in sound condition. Instead, apply two coats of paint on new, bare siding or one coat on previously painted siding.
Tip: A paint sprayer will cover the most area quicker than other application methods. However, you can also stick with the manual method, using a roller for large, flat areas and a paintbrush for more detailed areas.
Step 4
Clean Up & Appreciate Your Work
After you've applied the final coat of paint, remove the painter's tape while the topcoat is still wet for crisp lines. Once you've cleaned up your supplies and uncovered your plants, take a moment to admire the breathtaking new look of your vinyl siding!
Tip: Remember to clean your paintbrushes and roller covers for future use. Learn how with this helpful article!
Colors We Used
Like what you see? Here are the shades we used for this project.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Project Supplies
Vinyl Siding PainT
Sprayers, Rollers & brushes
FAQs
You can remove dried paint from vinyl siding by scrubbing the area with warm, soapy water or using a chemical paint remover designed for vinyl siding. Remember to test removing paint from vinyl siding in an inconspicuous area before continuing to the larger, more noticeable areas.
More Vinyl Siding Paint Colors
Here are some popular colors we love for this project.
