Before you tackle your next siding painting project, there are a few things you need to know. This article will cover the costs of siding paint, how to prep your home for painting, and vinyl siding paint colors.
After reading this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle your next siding painting project with ease. And before you get started, make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions first to ensure that you don’t void the warranty on your siding.
Cost of siding paint
Choosing the right siding paint for your home is crucial to maintaining its aesthetic appeal. While some people spend thousands of dollars replacing the siding on their house, others choose to save money by painting their homes themselves. There are many factors that affect the cost of siding paint. The condition of the siding, if it is in poor condition, will influence the price.
Some homes built before 1978 may have lead paint on their siding, which will need to be removed before the painter can start work. This toxic material will increase the cost of the project. Lead paint testing is required if your home has lead paint, and if you choose to remove it yourself, it will cost you between $1,500 and $2,500.
Problems with siding paint
There are several problems with siding paint. It’s not uncommon to find chalky patches and uneven surfaces. The problem usually is due to paint that’s too thick or not formulated properly for exterior use. Poorly applied paint may be chalky and have to be removed before it can be repainted.
Power washing or scrubbing with a cleaning solution containing trisodium phosphate and then rinsing it off with clean water is effective. If the paint is on brick, a professional cleaning contractor may be required. A chalky, dripping look is an obvious sign of paint failure.
Preparation for siding painting
Before you can paint your siding, you must prepare the area properly. First, clean your siding thoroughly. Clean siding is the best substrate for paint to adhere. Clean your siding with a power washer.
Set the pressure to low and wash the siding in overlapping strokes from top to bottom. Use a mild detergent to clean stubborn dirt. If you’re painting your entire house, you can use a specialized scrubbing brush.
Vinyl siding paint colors
Before you start painting your vinyl siding, you must clean it thoroughly to remove any stains, mildew, or chalking. Cleaners should be made of a mixture of 1/3 cup of laundry detergent, 2/3 cup powder house cleaner, and one-quarter cup of oxygen bleach. This solution should be applied by hand from lower to higher siding panels.
Be sure to rinse well afterward to avoid getting water under the vinyl. The next step is applying paint. You can use a brush to apply the paint, or you can use spray equipment.
Steel siding paint colors
Steel siding can be painted many different colors, depending on the appearance desired. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight, while darker shades absorb more heat. For urban areas, choose a matte or textured finish. Common colors include Matte Black, Midnight Gray, Vintage, and Black Ore Matte.
Lighter shades are preferred for mild to moderate climates. The following colors are examples of popular steel siding paint colors:
Aluminum siding paint colors
Painting the exterior of your home can be a challenge, but there are some great options for aluminum siding. You can choose any color, including bright, saturated colors. While you might have to paint over a metal primer if the color you want is too vibrant, you can also apply a flat or matte finish paint.
The sheen of paint is equal to its color, so you can avoid using gloss-enhancing paints, as they may not look as good on your home’s exterior.
Wood siding paint colors
If you’ve recently decided to paint your house, you’ve probably asked yourself some questions. Choosing the right exterior paint for wood siding is essential for both appearance and protection.
While most types of wood siding accept 100% solid acrylic latex emulsion paint, you will need to apply primer to bare wood before applying the paint. You should avoid using alkyd oil based paints, since they tend to dry out too quickly and cause the siding to fade.