Painting Aluminum Siding
Updated: Mar. 31, 2021Can aluminum siding be painted?
If your aluminum siding has developed a chalky residue or is faded, stained or just plain the wrong color, fear not. You can paint it. Here's how to prepare the surface and choose your paint.
Tips for painting aluminum siding
Can you paint aluminum siding?
Have you ever wondered if you can paint aluminum siding? The key to painting aluminum siding is to get it really clean and to use 100-percent acrylic latex paint. Check the label to be sure it’s recommended for metal siding. Expect to pay the premium for good paint.
The best way to get this siding clean is to power wash it. Or you could wash it by hand with TSP or a similar product (available at home centers and paint stores) and rinse it thoroughly. As long as the siding is clean, you won’t need to use a primer unless raw metal is exposed. Finally, since metal is such a good heat absorber, avoid painting siding while it’s getting direct sunlight.
Painting Aluminum Siding FAQs
How long does paint last on aluminum siding?
Aluminum siding paint typically lasts from five to 10 years and aluminum siding is easy to paint.
How much does aluminum siding paint cost?
One gallon of paint typically covers between 250-400 square feet but you’ll need to know how many coats of paint you’ll need to apply to estimate how many gallons of paint you need.
What is the best paint for aluminum siding?
As mentioned before, 100 percent acrylic latex paint is the best paint to use to paint aluminum siding.
Required Tools for this how to paint aluminum siding project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Garden hose
- Paint tray
- Paintbrush
- Power washer
