Omar Khalid
Painting the plastic siding on a house is a great way to refresh its exterior look and boost its curb appeal. It can also help protect the siding from harsh weather conditions. However, it is important to note that painting vinyl siding may void the manufacturer's warranty, and the siding will need to be repainted every five to ten years. The process of painting plastic siding involves several steps, including choosing the right paint, preparing the surface by cleaning and priming, and then applying the paint. The cost of painting a house's exterior can vary depending on factors such as location, the number of coats, and whether one chooses to hire a professional painter.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | On average, it costs $4,000 to paint a 2,000-square-foot home. Costs vary by location, number of coats, the age of the siding, and whether you paint it yourself or hire a professional painter. |
| Siding Preparation | The siding should be washed and dried prior to painting. If it’s dirty, paint will stick to the dirt and grime and be unable to adhere to the siding. |
| Paint Selection | Use a 100% acrylic paint or a mix of urethane and acrylic resins. If the paint color is darker than the current vinyl color, no priming is needed. If not, a surface primer is recommended. |
| Climate and Neighborhood | Cooler colors lead to less heat gain. Many communities have regulations and restrictions dictating paint colors. |
| Siding Maintenance | Vinyl siding is relatively maintenance-free. However, the color can fade over time due to sun exposure. |
| Paint Application | Use rollers or brushes. Work quickly and try to blend your strokes or rolls so that they’re not noticeable. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning the siding
Before painting plastic siding on a house, it is important to clean the siding thoroughly. This is a critical step in achieving a professional-quality paint job. The goal is to remove all mould, mildew, dirt, grease, chalky buildup, and debris from the surface.
To clean the siding, start by mixing a cleaning solution. You can use a general-purpose cleaner or create your own solution by mixing one-third cup of powdered laundry detergent (such as Tide) and two-thirds cup of powdered household cleaner (such as Spic and Span or Super Washing Soda) with one gallon of water. If mould and mildew are present, add one quart of liquid laundry bleach to your solution. Stir the solution well in a bucket.
Next, use a cloth, a soft-bristled brush, a sponge, or a car-washing brush with a handle that attaches to a hose to scrub the siding. Work from the bottom up, and thoroughly rinse each section immediately after scrubbing. Be sure to direct the water stream downward to prevent getting water behind the siding.
If you choose to use a pressure washer or power washer, be careful not to force water behind the vinyl panels. Check with the vinyl manufacturer's maintenance instructions first, and always be mindful of the direction in which the pressure washer is aimed.
Once you have scrubbed and rinsed the siding, allow enough time for it to dry completely before applying any paint or primer. This is an important step, as paint will stick to dirt and grime if the surface is not properly cleaned, which can cause blemishes in the cured paint.
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Choosing the right paint
Paint Type
Select a paint that is specifically designed for vinyl or plastic siding. Some recommended paint types include:
- Acrylic paint: Acrylic paint offers superior adhesion, making it easy to apply and ensuring long-lasting results.
- Urethane and acrylic resins mix: This type of paint provides excellent adhesion to vinyl siding.
- Latex urethane for exterior use: This type of paint can withstand expansion and contraction at different temperatures without cracking.
Colour
The colour choice is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for practical ones. Here are some considerations:
- Lighter colours: Choosing a lighter colour or the same colour as the current siding is recommended. Darker colours absorb more heat, which can lead to warping and maintenance issues.
- Cooler colours: If you live in a warm climate, consider cooler colours to reduce heat gain and keep your home cooler.
- Neighbourhood restrictions: Some communities have regulations that dictate or limit paint colours, so be sure to check before deciding.
- Fixed features: Consider the colours of your roof, brick, or stone facade and choose a paint colour that complements them.
- Modern look: If you're aiming for a modern look, rich neutrals often work better than pastels.
Primer
The use of primer depends on the condition of your siding and the paint manufacturer's recommendations. If the siding is pitted, worn, or severely weathered, a primer may be necessary to ensure proper adhesion. However, be sure to choose a paint that is formulated to stick to the primer.
Cost
Consider your budget when choosing paint. While it's important to select a quality paint, you don't need to choose the most expensive option. Compare prices and look for options that offer a good balance between quality and cost-effectiveness.
Prep Work
Keep in mind that painting vinyl siding requires proper prep work for the paint to adhere well. This includes thoroughly cleaning the siding to remove any dirt, mildew, or grime. Pressure washing or hand scrubbing with a cleaning solution are effective methods to ensure a clean surface.
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Using a primer
If you decide to use a primer, it's crucial to ensure that the paint you choose is formulated to adhere to it. Paint sticks to the layer directly beneath it, so compatibility between the primer and paint is essential. This compatibility will ensure that your paint job has better adhesion and lasts longer.
When applying the primer, start by cleaning the siding thoroughly. Use a cleaning solution to remove any mildew, dirt, or debris. You can scrub the siding with a wire brush or use a power washer for more convenience. Just be careful not to force water behind the vinyl panels if using a pressure washer or hose. Once the siding is clean, let it dry completely before proceeding.
After the siding is clean and dry, apply the primer evenly to the surface. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. This step will create a uniform base for your paint to adhere to. Once the primer is dry, you can move on to the next step of applying your chosen paint colour.
By following these instructions, you'll ensure that your primer is applied correctly and effectively, setting the foundation for a successful paint job on your plastic siding.
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Painting technique
Painting plastic siding on a house is a manageable task that can give your home's exterior a new look. Here are some painting techniques to help you get started:
Cleaning and Preparation:
Before painting, it is critical to thoroughly clean the siding to ensure a professional-quality finish. Mix a cleaning solution containing 1/3 cup of powdered laundry detergent, 2/3 cup of general-purpose household cleaner, and 2/3 cup of oxygen bleach for each gallon of water. Use a soft-bristled brush or a sponge to scrub the siding and remove all dirt, mildew, grease, and chalkiness. Rinse each section immediately after scrubbing with clean water from a hose, directing the water stream downward to prevent water from getting behind the siding. Alternatively, you can use a pressure washer for a more efficient clean, but be cautious of the direction in which it is aimed to avoid water infiltration. Ensure the siding is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Primer Application:
The use of primer is subject to different schools of thought. Some professionals use it in almost every project, while others use it only when warranted by the condition of the siding. If your siding exhibits pitting, severe weathering, or other signs of deterioration, a primer is recommended. Consult the paint manufacturer to ensure that the paint you choose will adhere to the primer. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
Paint Selection and Application:
When selecting paint, opt for a mix of urethane and acrylic resins, specifically 100% acrylic paint, as it provides the best adhesion. Choose a paint colour that is the same as or lighter than the current colour of your siding, as darker colours can cause the siding to absorb more heat, leading to potential warping and maintenance issues. Additionally, ensure the paint is vinyl-safe and suitable for exterior use, such as latex urethane.
On the day of painting, cover nearby plants, air conditioning units, and any other objects you want to protect from paint with tarps. Remove shutters and exterior decorations that may hinder your progress. Use rollers or brushes for paint application, starting at the top and working your way down. Work quickly and blend your strokes or rolls to achieve a seamless finish.
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Maintenance
Painting plastic siding on a house is a fairly manageable task that can be tackled with the right tools and preparation. However, it is important to note that painting your siding will require regular maintenance and upkeep. Here are some key considerations for maintaining your painted plastic siding:
- Regular Cleaning: Keep your siding looking fresh by regularly cleaning it with a non-abrasive cleaner or a homemade cleaning solution. Remove any dirt, mildew, or grime that may build up over time. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a power washer for more effectiveness.
- Paint Choice: Choose a paint specifically designed for exterior use on vinyl siding, such as latex urethane or a mix of urethane and acrylic resins. Avoid using dark colours as they can cause the siding to absorb more heat, leading to potential warping and maintenance issues.
- Climate Considerations: The lifespan of your paint job will depend on your local climate. Harsher climates, including extreme heat and storms, can shorten the lifespan of your siding and paint. Repainting may be necessary every 5 to 10 years.
- Warranty Concerns: Painting your vinyl siding may void the manufacturer's warranty. Check with the manufacturer before proceeding with any painting projects.
- Preparation: Proper preparation is key to maintaining the quality of your painted siding. Ensure the surface is thoroughly cleaned, dried, and primed before applying paint. Mask off any areas you do not want to be painted with plastic sheets or painter's tape.
- Neighbourhood Restrictions: Be mindful of any community regulations or homeowners' association rules that may dictate or limit paint colours in your neighbourhood.
By following these maintenance tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your painted plastic siding looks its best and lasts for many years.
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Frequently asked questions
Painting vinyl siding is an affordable and easy way to refresh the look of your home's exterior and boost its curb appeal. It can also help protect your siding from harsh weather conditions. However, it's important to note that painting your siding will void the manufacturer's warranty, and you will have to repaint it every five to ten years.
Basing the colour choice on the home's style can help. Many paint makers offer historically accurate collections of colours for specific house styles. For example, Sherwin-Williams offers exterior colour palettes for Queen Anne, Craftsman, Georgian, and Suburban Modern styles of homes. Another way to choose an exterior siding colour is to consider the home's other exterior features, such as the roof colour, and any brick or stone that is part of the facade.
You should use a paint that is a mix of urethane and acrylic resins on vinyl siding as it will adhere better than any other type of paint. Specifically, use 100% acrylic paint as it provides the best adhesion, helping it stick to the siding for easier application and longer-lasting results.
First, clean your siding of any mildew, dirt, or debris. You can scrub it with a wire brush or use a power washer to make the job easier. Then, use a general-purpose cleaner and make sure the surface is dry before applying paint or primer. If your paint colour is darker than your current vinyl colour, no priming is needed. If not, or if the surface is pitted or worn, a surface primer is recommended for the best results. Choose a dry day to paint and cover anything you don't want to get paint on.
