Can You Paint Vinyl Siding? What Works, What Warps, and How It Is Done
Yes, vinyl siding can be painted, as long as the paint is made for vinyl and the color is no darker than the paint maker allows. Dark colors absorb more heat, and vinyl softens and moves with heat; a color that is too dark can make panels bow and buckle on sunny walls.
Why People Paint Vinyl
Vinyl fades over the years, especially on south and west walls, and a faded or dated color is the main reason. Painting costs less than replacing the siding and lets you change the color, which many HOAs around Matthews allow with approval.
The Heat Problem
Vinyl siding is installed loose on its nails so it can expand and contract. Its original color was chosen so the panels stay within a temperature range. Paint that absorbs much more heat than the original color pushes the vinyl past that range, and panels can warp. That is why paint makers publish vinyl-safe color collections, often based on a measure of how much light a color reflects. Pick from those lists, not from a general fan deck.
As a rule, staying the same lightness or going lighter is safe; going darker needs a color from the maker's vinyl-safe list.
Prep
- Wash thoroughly. Vinyl collects dirt, pollen and mildew, especially on north walls. Wash with a cleaner, a soft brush and a low-pressure rinse, and let it dry.
- Check the panels. Loose, cracked or wavy panels should be fixed or replaced first; paint will not hide them.
- Spot-prime where needed. Most vinyl-safe acrylics bond directly to clean vinyl. Heavy chalk or patched areas may need a primer recommended by the paint maker.
- Protect trim and windows. Vinyl windows and trim are usually left their original color or painted with the same vinyl-safe product.
Application
Two thin coats of a 100% acrylic vinyl-safe paint, applied within the label temperature range and out of direct midday sun, give the best result. Spraying with back-rolling works well on lap siding; brushes are used at edges and corners.
How Long It Lasts
Painted vinyl usually needs repainting on a cycle similar to wood siding, roughly 7 to 10 years in this climate, sooner on the sunniest sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will painting vinyl siding void its warranty?
It can. Check the siding warranty before painting; many older homes are past their warranty period anyway.
Can I paint vinyl siding a dark color?
Only with a color from the paint maker's vinyl-safe list.
Do I need primer on vinyl siding?
Usually not on clean, sound vinyl with a vinyl-safe acrylic. Follow the paint maker's instructions.
Does my HOA need to approve painting vinyl siding?
Almost always for a color change. Get approval in writing first.
Thinking About Painting Vinyl?
We check the siding, the color and the HOA rules before quoting. See exterior painting or contact us.