If you’re getting tired of the look of your vinyl or aluminum siding, you don’t need to install new siding. Go ahead and paint it. For a small investment you can make it look like new or even change the color.
As in any painting job, the more attention you pay to surface prep, the better the finished product.
Vinyl Clean up any chalking, stains or dirt by cleaning the siding with a power washer or with a little elbow grease and warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly. If you encounter really stubborn stains, try a little bleach, rinsing well afterward. It should go without saying, but don’t use a wire brush or sandpaper, as you’ll damage the surface.
Use a good quality acrylic latex paint, but don’t choose a color that’s darker than your existing color. This can cause the surface of the siding to heat up too much, leading to warped panels.
Aluminum Before painting, make sure you remove any surface oxidation or blemishes by rubbing the area lightly with steel wool. Dull the surface where it’s glossy with steel wall or a TSP solution. If you have mildew buildup, remove it with bleach, and then wash by hand or with a power washer. Rinse well. Before painting, spot prime areas where you’ve exposed the bare aluminum.
Note: Use bleach or chemical cleaners only as necessary, and make sure you protect any foundation plantings below the area you’re working on.