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What Paint Can You Use On Aluminum Siding? (How To)

Even though aluminum siding can last for many years, it can quickly start to look worn out, faded, and just not as nice as it once was. Before you commit to having new siding installed, why not consider painting the aluminum siding? Painting aluminum siding is a budget-friendly way to breathe new life into a drab exterior. 

One of the great things about aluminum siding is that you can use a wide array of different paints on this surface. However, the best choice for aluminum siding is acrylic latex paint designed for exterior use.

Orange paint of aluminum siding

This type of paint is designed to withstand the harsh elements that aluminum siding is subjected to on a regular basis. When you use the right type of paint for the job, it will hold up longer than if the wrong paint was used. This not only means saving you time from having to repaint the siding again in a few years, but it will also save you money. 

Can You Use Spray Paint To Paint Aluminum Siding?

Spray paint for aluminum siding

Most people consider spray paint as a way to save time when painting a surface. After all, you don’t even need a brush to apply spray paint. But is it a good choice for aluminum siding?

You can apply spray paint to aluminum siding, although the surface should be primed beforehand. It’s best to work in small batches at a time and to try to only work in shaded areas or before it gets too hot during the day.

This is because aluminum will start to warm up in the sun, which can cause the paint to set up much quicker and become too thick.

Can You Use Latex Paint To Paint Aluminum Siding?

Paintings for aluminum siding

Latex is a versatile paint that is also cost effective for most do-it-yourself projects. Not only is it readily available, but you can get latex paint with a virtually endless array of colors and hues. 

Latex paint is one of the most commonly used paints for a multitude of surfaces, including aluminum siding. In fact, the best choice for aluminum siding is acrylic latex paint for outdoor use. If going with this paint, select a flat or satin finish as it helps to hide imperfections in the siding.

Can You Use Acrylic Paint To Paint Aluminum Siding?

Paintings for aluminum siding

Acrylic and latex are two good options when trying to decide on what paint to use for aluminum siding. While both of these options are ideal, some professional paintings recommend acrylic over latex because acrylic contains chemicals that can hold up to weather better than latex. 

Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on November 2, 2022.

A 100% acrylic paint is one of the best choices for painting aluminum siding. Acrylic paint can properly contract and expand with the ever changing weather and temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for surfaces, such as aluminum siding, that will be exposed to the elements.

Can You Use Oil Based Paint To Paint Aluminum Siding?

Paintings for aluminum siding

If you take a stroll down the paint aisle of your local department store or hardware store, you are sure to see a slew of different paint types, including oil-based paint. While oil-based paint does have a time and place for when it should be used, aluminum siding is not one of them.

Oil-based paints should never be used on aluminum siding because the paint will cause the aluminum to corrode. Additionally, you shouldn’t use oil-based primers either. Instead, use exterior latex paint to paint or touch up your aluminum siding.

Can You Use Rustoleum To Paint Aluminum Siding?

Paintings for aluminum siding

Rustoleum is a trusted and well-known brand that has brought paints and protective coatings to the masses for over 100 years. Their products can be used on a wide array of surfaces, including aluminum siding.

You can use Rustoleum to paint aluminum siding, according to the Rustoleum website. They do recommend, however, only using Rustoleum paint that is made for exterior use as this can hold up to fading from exposure to the sun’s rays.

Do You Need A Primer For Aluminum Siding?

Paintings for aluminum siding

Primer is an important part of the painting process that some people overlook. What the primer does is create a foundation that allows the paint to adhere better to the surface. Primer also seals the surface you are painting, which results in a more vibrant color.

Not only should you use an acrylic primer before painting the aluminum siding, but the entire surface will need to be thoroughly cleaned, rinsed, and dried beforehand. This means washing the surface that will be painted and then applying the primer before beginning the painting process.

How To Paint Aluminum Siding Properly

confused man standing

While painting aluminum siding isn’t a difficult process, it does require specific steps in order to ensure the task is done properly. When completed the right way, the paint job will look amazing and will last for years to come.

Before starting the painting process, you will need to prep the surface. This means examining the siding for any damage and then repairing it before continuing. Additionally, look for mold and mildew as well, making sure to use a diluted bleach solution to remove the fungal growth from the siding.

Once all damaged and fungal growth has been addressed, you can start cleaning the aluminum siding thoroughly with TSP (Trisodium phosphate). TSP is a heavy duty cleaner that removes dirt and grease, and is often used in prepping surfaces before painting. Use a sponge to scrub the surface with the cleaning solution and then rinse clean with water. A garden hose or power washer works well for this part of the process. Let the aluminum siding dry completely before continuing.

Once the surface is dry, apply one coat of acrylic primer and let dry completely before continuing. When ready to continue, apply two top coats of the exterior acrylic paint. Make sure that each coat is completely dried before applying the next coat. 

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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on November 2, 2022.

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