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Painting aluminum siding can breathe new life into your home’s exterior, improving its appearance and lifespan. While the process requires some effort, it’s a cost-effective way to refresh your home’s look without the expense of replacing the siding. This Old House painting contractor, Jim Clark, demonstrates the proper techniques for cleaning and preparing aluminum siding for painting.
Preparing To Paint Aluminum Siding
Proper preparation involves inspecting the siding, gathering necessary materials, and cleaning the surface thoroughly.
Inspecting the Siding
Start by examining your aluminum siding for any signs of damage, mildew, or chalking–powdery paint pigment.
- Look for dents, scratches, or loose panels that may need repair
- Check for areas of mildew, which appear as dark spots or streaks
- Test for chalking by rubbing the surface with a dark cloth
- Cover nearby bushes and ground with drop cloths
If you notice any of these issues, address them before painting. Repairing damaged areas and treating mildew will ensure a better paint finish and longer-lasting results.
Gathering Materials
To paint aluminum siding, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Acrylic primer specifically designed for metal surfaces
- High-quality acrylic exterior paint
- Paint brushes and rollers
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate (TSP), and water
- Pressure washer or abrasive sponges
- Ladder
- Disposable gloves and safety goggles
Testing for Lead Paint
Before you begin any work on older siding, you must test for the presence of lead paint. Using a simple lead test kit can identify this hazardous substance. If lead is present, contact a licensed lead abatement specialist before proceeding with your project.
Safety Precautions
Working with chemicals can be hazardous, so follow proper safety guidelines. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves and goggles. Use a mask to avoid inhaling dust and fumes, especially when sanding. Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated.
Cleaning the Aluminum Siding
Depending on the size of your project and the tools available, you can use several methods to clean aluminum siding.
Creating a Cleaning Solution
To clean your aluminum siding effectively, mix the following in a bucket:
- 1 cup chlorine bleach
- 1 cup TSP
- 1 gallon of water
Wear gloves and safety goggles when handling this solution, as it contains strong chemicals.
Manual Cleaning Method
For smaller areas or if you prefer a more hands-on approach:
- Dip an abrasive sponge into the cleaning solution
- Scrub the siding in a circular motion, working from bottom to top
- Rinse the cleaned area thoroughly with a garden hose
- Repeat the process until all siding is clean
Pressure Washer Method
For larger areas or to save time, a pressure washer can be an effective tool. Use the correct nozzle and angle the spray downward to avoid forcing water behind the siding:
- Connect the pressure washer to a garden hose
- Attach a fan-spray tip to the washer’s wand
- Fill the washer’s reservoir with the cleaning solution
- Start at the bottom of the siding and work your way up, spraying at a downward angle
- Keep the spray nozzle moving to avoid damaging the siding
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water, again working from bottom to top
Alternative Cleaning Methods
For stubborn areas or to remove old paint, consider a random-orbit sander. A sander provides thorough cleaning, which aids in achieving a smooth and tacky paint surface:
- Attach the sander to a wet/dry vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter
- Use a 100-grit abrasive disk on the sander
- Gently sand the surface, being careful not to damage the siding
- Vacuum up any dust or debris as you work
Dealing with Mildew
Mildew can be a persistent issue with aluminum siding. If you encounter mildew spots:
- Apply a mildew-resistant cleaner to the affected areas
- Scrub gently to remove the mildew
- Rinse thoroughly to prevent recurrence
Priming and Painting Aluminum Siding
You can begin the painting process once your siding is clean and dry.
Choosing the Right Paint
Acrylic paint is the best choice for aluminum siding. It adheres well to metal surfaces and provides excellent durability. Choose a high-quality exterior acrylic paint in your desired color. Avoid oil-based paints, as they don’t perform as well on aluminum.
Priming the Surface
Applying a primer assists paint adhesion and longevity. Primer helps to create a uniform base for the paint, ensuring it adheres properly and lasts longer. Make sure to cover all areas evenly with these steps:
- Select an acrylic primer specifically designed for metal surfaces
- Apply the primer using a brush or roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Allow the primer to dry completely before painting
Painting Techniques
To achieve the best results when painting aluminum siding, remember to paint on a day with mild temperatures and low humidity for the best results. Extreme temperatures can affect paint adherence and drying time. Keep these techniques in mind:
- Start at the top of the house and work your way down
- Use a brush to cut in around windows, doors, and corners
- Apply paint with a roller for larger areas, using long, smooth strokes
- Apply two thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat
- Allow adequate drying time between coats
Choosing the Right Tools
Select high-quality brushes and rollers designed for exterior use. A wide brush can help cut around edges, and a roller can quickly cover larger surfaces.
Maintaining Painted Aluminum Siding
To keep your newly painted aluminum siding looking its best:
- Wash the siding annually with a mild detergent solution
- Inspect for any chips or peeling paint and touch up as needed
- Trim bushes and trees away from the siding to prevent scratches
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip away paint
Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your paint job and keep your home looking fresh.
Touching Up
Touch-ups might be necessary over time to maintain a pristine appearance. Keep some leftover paint for easy touch-ups.
Reapplying Paint
Depending on wear and tear, a fresh coat of paint every 5–10 years can keep your home looking newly painted. Regularly inspect your siding for signs of wear, such as fading or peeling, and address these issues promptly.