Can Vinyl Siding Be Painted?

Vinyl siding elicits strong opinions from homeowners. Supporters praise its energy efficiency and easy maintenance. Cleaning it with a hose is simple, and it usually doesn’t need repainting.

But what if you want to paint your siding? Maybe new siding is too expensive, or you’re not happy with the limited colors available. Can you repaint vinyl siding? The short answer is yes, but it’s complicated. Repainting can void warranties and cause issues like warping. Here’s what you need to know before you start.

Do You Need to Paint?

Homeowners choose vinyl siding for its convenience. One major advantage is that it doesn’t need repainting. Professional painting can cost thousands of dollars and needs to be repeated every three to seven years, depending on your local climate. That’s a big commitment.

If your siding has lost its original color, check your warranty for coverage on fading. Most manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty and may replace or reimburse you for significant color damage. The industry uses a scale called Hunter units to measure color intensity. A difference of four Hunter units indicates noticeable fading, but it’s still a subtle change.

If your warranty won’t cover replacement, if you inherited the siding, or if you simply want a new color, repainting is an option. But keep these points in mind:

• Warranties May Be Affected: Painting could void your warranty. Double-check the policy to ensure you’re not stuck with future damage or defects, especially if your siding is new.
• Dark Colors Can Cause Warping: Vinyl siding often comes in lighter colors for a reason. Darker shades absorb heat, which can make the panels warp or buckle. If you’re repainting, choose a color that matches or is lighter than the current one.

Choosing the Right Paint

If you decide painting is the way to go, use the correct type of paint. Choose exterior-rated latex urethane paint. No primer is needed.

Cleaning Your Siding

Proper cleaning is crucial for a smooth paint job. Most siding companies recommend mixing water, liquid detergent, and dry laundry detergent. Use a soft-bristled car washing brush and a garden hose to clean the area. Avoid power washers and bleach, as they can damage the siding.

Painting Your Siding

Once the siding is clean and dry, check the weather conditions before painting. Avoid extremely hot or windy days, as paint may not stick properly and can crack or flake over time. Ideal temperatures for painting vinyl siding range from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use a roller or sprayer for large areas and a brush for the trim and edges. Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Once your paint job is complete, relax and enjoy your refreshed siding. If you did it right, you won’t need to repaint for another ten years.

Modernize can connect you with a pro to help you take on your vinyl siding painting project with confidence.