Aluminum siding, thanks to its durability and low maintenance requirements, has remained a popular choice for dressing the exterior of homes for decades. Although it withstands the test of time more efficiently than some materials, like every home element, it isn’t invincible.
When the coating begins to fade or become chalky from oxidation, you may be wondering if you should paint the aluminum coating, what the best paint for aluminum siding is, or if you should replace it altogether.
Any work that involves the exterior of the entire house can be overwhelming. But there’s no need to worry—as long as you take care to follow the steps for such a big process, you will get the results you are looking for!
Aluminum Siding
Because aluminum siding is ideal for insulation and protection, is weatherproof and does not rot, it became popular in the 1940s. When vinyl became popular in the 1980s, aluminum siding was used less often in the home-building process.
However, there are still many homeowners who prefer it, and many older properties are still covered in aluminum. It is an attractive material that is recyclable.
What else is great about aluminum siding is that it doesn’t swell or contract in extreme weather conditions. So there is less of a risk of cracking and peeling if you have decided to paint. Another great feature is that it can take on any colour.
Though choosing a darker colour paint for aluminum siding in a climate with high sun exposure can absorb excess heat, the siding itself will not warp or buckle.
From many factories, aluminum siding often comes with a baked-on finish that may resemble wood or another material. Sometimes, as a home exterior, this finish gets worn all the way down until the metal is visible. As long as you scrape off any peeling paint that you may have previously applied and use a high-quality exterior metal primer. Then your painting aluminum siding before and after will be Instagram-worthy!
The Pros of Painting Aluminum Siding
Cost-Effective Revamp
Compared to replacing old and faded aluminum siding, painting is substantially less expensive. It’s a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your siding while revamping the aesthetics of your home.
Increased Home Value
A newly painted house can boost your home’s curb appeal, which can, in turn, increase its market value. The fresh, well-maintained appearance communicates care and diligence to potential buyers.
Prevents Leakage
High-quality paint forms a waterproof barrier between your siding and the elements. This can prevent water damage, stop leaks, and increase your siding’s overall durability.
The Cons of Painting Aluminum Siding
Regular Maintenance
Paint on aluminum siding can chip or peel over time due to weather conditions and wear. Hence, it requires occasional touch-ups and maintenance, adding to upkeep efforts.
Accuracy in Prep Work
Prepping aluminum siding for painting is vital. Incorrectly executed prep work, such as improper cleaning or primer application, can lead to poor paint adhesion and premature peeling.
Aluminum Siding Painting Process
The first stage of this process is often repaired. You may have already noticed a handful of little dings or scratches, but take another walk around the house and make note of every repair that is necessary. So you know what tools and materials you will need to get started.
In cases, where there are small holes and dents using some aluminum foil tape and caulk before proceeding may be all that is needed. For situations where a couple of panels are broken, you may be able to patch them with single shingles cut to the appropriate size.
By pushing these into place and nailing the edges, your damaged areas can look as good as new. But if the damage to your aluminum siding is extensive, then you may want to consider replacing it entirely or choosing a new kind of siding material.
The next step is usually the cleaning process. In most homes, a regular wash is all that is necessary. Soap and water solution or bleach and water solution, a soft bristle brush, and some elbow grease will be enough to remove cobwebs, bird droppings, and regular dirt and dust. Or you may have so much algae, mould, mildew, and moss that the siding has turned green!
In this case, a good power wash is the best prep before painting. In either case, using a garden hose or pressure washer will be the faster option. Remember to use whatever protective gear is necessary, and if you do choose to power wash. For safety, start on a lower setting to get used to the movement before using a higher one.
Aluminum Siding Colour
When it comes to choosing a paint colour, for brighter colours, it is recommended to use a white base coat, but for most colours, the exterior metal primer should be enough. The best paint for aluminum siding exteriors is something durable and attractive on metal shingles—acrylic latex-based. Once you are ready to paint, tape off any window trims and doors you want to be covered. Though painting with rollers and brushes is common, for jobs as large as painting the exterior of a house, using an airless sprayer is the most time-efficient.
This method will also use fewer buckets of paint if your technique is well-practiced. After two coats with dry time in between, a flat or matte finish is best for siding. This will hide any imperfections instead of embellishing them. Painted aluminum siding should last about five to ten years. Pressure washes about once a year for any home general maintenance will keep it in the best shape possible.
Painting Your Aluminum Siding
It can take anywhere from three days to a week in total. This depends on scheduling, weather, manpower, necessary repairs, the size of your home, and the season you are painting in. Whether you have questions or your research has you Googling “aluminum siding painters near me,” Home Painters Toronto is here for you!
Conclusion
In conclusion, painting aluminum siding is a viable, cost-effective option to give your home a much-needed facelift. With proper preparation, quality tools, and paint, you can transform your home’s exterior into a more visually pleasing and well-protected edifice. However, be prepared to invest some time and effort into maintenance to keep it looking its best. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult with professional aluminum siding painters to guide you through the process.
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