Painting aluminum siding

If your aluminum siding’s color is fading, has visible dents and scratches, or you simply want to update your home’s curb appeal, you have two options: replacing the siding or painting it. 

Each choice has pros and cons, but painting aluminum siding is more affordable and practical, especially if it is still in good structural shape.

Keep reading to find out how to paint aluminum siding and whether it’s worth it.

Can you paint aluminum siding?

Yes, you can paint aluminum siding because it has a stable aluminum oxide layer on its surface when exposed to air. This oxide layer is chemically inert and provides a naturally adhesive surface for coatings, including primers and paints.

Next you need to consider whether it makes sense to paint aluminum siding instead of replacing it altogether. When the siding structure is still intact, it's worth proceeding. Painting can be a significantly more cost-effective way to refresh the exterior if the siding is free from dents, corrosion, or severe warping.

The main trade off is that aluminum siding needs to be repainted every 7 to 10 years, depending on the climate and quality of the last paint job. Regular maintenance, like gently washing away dirt, mildew, or chalking, can help preserve the finish and keep the siding looking fresh for longer.

Is it worth painting aluminum siding?

Painting can be a smart, cost-effective way to refresh aluminum siding—especially if the siding is still structurally sound. While new siding can cost between $10,500 and $19,300 depending on your home’s size and materials, painting typically costs much less, ranging from $2,000 to $5,750.

However, it's also essential to factor in longevity. Aluminum siding needs to be repainted every 7 to 10 years. Replacement siding, especially with modern low-maintenance materials like vinyl or fiber cement, lasts up to 50 years before needing attention. So, although painting costs less upfront, replacement offers more value over time if you plan to stay in the home for decades.

Still, the value of painting goes beyond just appearance or short-term savings. A quality paint job helps to protect your siding. It can seal out moisture, block UV damage, and slow down the oxidation process that makes aluminum look dull and chalky.

That said, painting only makes sense if the siding is still structurally sound, if you're not ready to invest in a full replacement, or if you're preparing to sell your home and want to boost curb appeal without taking on a large renovation.

How to prep aluminum siding for paint

Prepping the siding is a crucial step before the actual painting. It helps the paint last longer and look smoother. Let’s look at all you need to do before painting.

Inspect the siding

Check for dents, cracks, warping, or other physical damage. Patch small dents with paintable exterior caulk, but larger damages require a panel replacement or professional repair.

Also, check for signs of chalking, the powdery residue that forms on the surface of aged aluminum when the original factory finish begins to break down. You can test for chalking by running your hand along the surface. If a white, powdery film comes off, you need to address that before painting.

In addition, if your home was built before 1978, test for lead-based paint. Lead can pose serious health risks, especially during sanding or scraping. You can buy a lead testing kit at a hardware store or, better yet, hire a professional to confirm. If lead is present, take all recommended precautions or leave the removal to professionals. 

Clean thoroughly

A dirty or chalky surface prevents the new paint from bonding properly, leading to bubbling, peeling, or premature wear. 

Two ways to clean aluminum siding are by hand scrubbing or pressure washing. Both work and have their benefits.

For instance, hand scrubbing gives you more control and lets you focus on small problem areas. It’s a good choice if your siding isn’t too dirty or you’re working on an older home where you want to be gentle. 

You’ll need a large bucket, a soft-bristle brush, and a mixture of one-third cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP), one quart of household bleach, and three quarts of water. Wear gloves and eye protection, and work in small sections. Dip the brush into the cleaning solution and scrub the siding from top to bottom. Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse each section thoroughly with clean water.

On the other hand, pressure washing is a good option if your siding is in good condition and you want to save time. You don’t need a cleaning solution or special soap. Simply use a wide spray tip and keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the surface. Spray at a downward angle so water doesn’t get forced behind the panels, and be careful not to use too much pressure to avoid damage. After washing, let the siding dry completely before you start painting.

Choosing the best paint for aluminum siding

100% acrylic and acrylic latex paint is considered the best paint for aluminum siding. Preference is usually given to acrylic latex because it combines the best features of acrylic and latex paints. 

Acrylic latex paint is water-based, which makes it easier to work with and faster to dry. It inherits excellent adhesion, color retention, and resistance to weather and UV damage from its acrylic side. Likewise, it gets easy application and cleanup from latex paint but avoids one of latex’s common issues, bubbling.  Hence, it forms a breathable, flexible film that allows moisture to escape while offering strong protection.

Another thing to consider when choosing the best paint for aluminum siding is to avoid high-gloss paints. While they may seem appealing for their sleek appearance, they highlight dents, dings, and surface irregularities often found on older aluminum siding.

Use a quality primer designed specifically for metal before applying paint. It helps the paint adhere more securely and allows the paint coat to last longer without peeling or flaking.

How to paint aluminum siding step by step

Following the proper steps when painting your aluminum siding makes all the difference. It ensures the paint sticks properly, looks even, and holds up against weather over time. These steps will help you do it right.

Apply primer

After the siding is clean and completely dry, it’s time to apply a coat of primer. Check the label on the primer to see if it needs to be thinned, as some need a small amount of water or thinner mixed in, while others go straight into the sprayer. Wear protective gear like goggles and a mask, and cover nearby plants, windows, and walkways with plastic or drop cloths.

Pour the primer into your sprayer and test the spray nozzle on a piece of cardboard or scrap material. Adjust the nozzle until you get a smooth, even mist. Hold the sprayer about 10 to 12 inches from the surface of the siding and move in steady, horizontal strokes. Work in sections, spraying from side to side, slightly overlapping each pass to avoid thin spots or streaks. Let the primer dry fully before painting.

Apply the paint

Apply the paint using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Spraying offers the smoothest finish and is the quickest option for large areas, but it takes more time to set up. Rolling is a solid middle ground—faster than brushing and easier to control than spraying. Brushing works best for smaller areas, edges, and trim.

For the best results, combine all three: spray or roll the main siding, then use a brush to cut in around edges and corners.

Start at the top and work your way down to avoid streaks. Apply the coat evenly and let it dry completely before applying the second. Drying time depends on the weather and the paint, but it’s usually safe to recoat after 2 to 3 hours. If the air is humid or the temperature is low, wait a little longer.

Watch for drips, especially around the edges and seams, and smooth them out immediately. Then, let the paint cure fully before washing or touching up the siding.

Maintaining your painted siding

A good aluminum siding house paint can last 7 to 10 years if the surface is prepped correctly and high-quality materials are used. Here’s how:

• Inspect your siding once a year, preferably in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. Look for any spots where the paint is peeling, fading, or chipping. Lightly sand the edges of the damaged paint, clean the surface, and apply primer and touch-up paint. For seamless touch-ups, use the same paint type and color as the existing coat.
• Once a year, gently wash the siding to remove dirt, mildew, and chalky buildup. A simple solution of water and mild soap works well, and you can apply it with a soft-bristle brush or a garden sprayer. 
• Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers, as these can damage the paint.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage away from the house. Leaks or clogs can cause moisture to run down the siding, which may lead to paint damage or mildew.

Final thoughts

If you have the time, the right tools, and a little patience, you can paint your aluminum siding as a DIY project. The key is to clean the surface thoroughly, use the right primer, and apply high-quality acrylic latex paint. It gives you control over the process and can save money on labor costs.

However, sometimes it makes more sense to call in a professional.

If your home is two stories or more, if the siding is damaged or badly oxidized, or if you're uncomfortable using a sprayer or working on tall ladders, hiring a pro is safer and more efficient. Professionals have commercial-grade tools and can deal with tricky areas without leaving uneven finishes or overspray.