Aluminum gutters are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. However, over time, they can begin to look faded and worn. Painting can give them a fresh and new appearance. But what kind of paint and primer is best?
The best paint for painting aluminum gutters is high-quality exterior acrylic paint. This type of paint is durable and waterproof. An acrylic bonding primer should also be used before applying the paint. This primer helps ensure that the paint adheres properly and won’t peel off in a short period.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 4 factors to consider when choosing paint for aluminum gutters
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for aluminum gutters
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Aluminum Gutters
1. Type of Paint
The first factor to consider when choosing paint for aluminum gutters is the type of paint. Different kinds of paint can be used for different purposes. Choose a paint that is designed for outdoor use so that it can withstand the elements.
2. Environment-Friendly Paints
Many paint brands are eco-friendly and low-VOC (volatile organic compound). These paints are a better option if you have children or pets or are worried about the impact of the surrounding environment.
They produce fewer offensive fumes, have a better curing time, and are almost odorless. Before purchasing, always look out for the paint labels and choose the one that suits your needs.
3. Durability
The durability of the paint is also an important factor to consider when choosing paint for your aluminum gutters. Your gutters are constantly exposed to climatic changes, including rain, sunlight, and wind. Ensure that the paint you choose for your gutters is durable and can withstand the harshest of weather conditions for your area.
Choose a paint that has a long lifespan so that you don’t have to paint your gutters frequently. Some paints come with a warranty or a guarantee of the years the paint should last. Look for such assurance from the paint brands.
4. Color and Aesthetic Appeal
The color and aesthetic appeal is the last factor to consider when choosing paint for your aluminum gutters.
Your gutters should match the style of your home, so choose a shade that complements the exterior of your house. Before buying, always test out a few samples on a hidden part of your gutter to make sure you are satisfied with the shade.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic
Acrylic paint is a water-based paint made from pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion. It’s typically an exterior-grade paint designed to withstand various weather conditions when used on aluminum gutters.
Pros
- Low VOCs
- Quick drying
- Easy clean-up
- Resistant to cracking
- Wide color range
Cons
- Less durability
- Multiple coats needed
- Surface preparation required
- Adhesion challenges
- Weather sensitivity
Enamel
Enamel paints are made with either a high-quality, solvent-based resin or water-based latex. Solvent-based enamel paints deliver a smooth, hard finish that creates a traditionally glossy look.
On the other hand, water-based enamel paints provide a less toxic alternative, easier clean up, and less odor, while still delivering a durable finish.
Pros
- High durability
- Excellent adhesion
- Smooth finish
- Weather-resistant
- Prevents debris build-up
Cons
- Slow drying
- Strong fumes
- Difficult clean-up
- Surface preparation required
- Possible chipping over time
What Paint Finish Is Best?
When considering what paint finish is best for painting aluminum gutters, it largely depends on the desired appearance and level of maintenance. Satin and semi-gloss are both popular choices, but each has its own set of pros and cons.
Satin finishes have a low sheen and are commonly used for exterior trim and woodwork. They provide a smooth, subtle look that is easy to maintain and touch up. Satin finishes hide imperfections and are less likely to show brushstrokes or roller marks.
Semi-gloss finishes, on the other hand, have a greater luster and are more reflective. They are often used for high-traffic areas like doors and cabinets because they are more durable and easier to clean. Semi-gloss finishes also retain better color and are less likely to fade or peel.
It’s important to consider the conditions that the gutters will be exposed to. A satin finish may be suitable if the gutters are largely shielded from direct sunlight and harsh weather.
A semi-gloss finish may be better if the gutters are exposed to the elements and subject to a lot of wear and tear.
The Best Paint and Primer for Aluminum Gutters
Best Paint
Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic-Latex is an excellent choice for painting aluminum gutters. Its PermaLast Technology provides superior durability and a thicker coating than ordinary latex paint, ensuring long-lasting protection from cracking, peeling, and blistering.
This paint also offers flash rust resistance, minimizes nail head rusting, and better tannin bleed resistance than conventional latex paints. Additionally, its self-priming formula allows for one coat application on repaints and two coats on unpainted surfaces, saving time and effort.
Durability is not the only benefit of this paint. It can also be applied at low temperatures down to 35°F (2°C), providing flexibility for painting in colder weather conditions.
Furthermore, it is available in various finishes, including flat, satin, gloss, and low luster, so you can choose the perfect look for your gutters.
Best Primer
Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Primer is exceptional for painting aluminum gutters. The primer’s acrylic formula allows maximum adhesion to the gutter’s slick surface.
It creates a tough, durable surface that can withstand the elements of both interior and exterior settings.
One advantage of this primer is that it seals stains, graffiti, and tannin bleed. This feature is beneficial when dealing with old aluminum gutters that have accumulated rust, corrosion, and other unsightly marks. The primer creates a smooth and consistent surface that is ready for painting.
It is also mold and mildew resistant, providing a protective barrier against the growth of these organisms. This feature is especially important when painting outside gutters where moisture is prevalent.
Another significant benefit of this primer is its ability to inhibit rust, making it an ideal choice for new metal gutters. It creates a protective barrier that prevents rust from penetrating the surface of the metal.
One of the best things about this primer is how quickly it dries. It can be sanded and painted over in as little as an hour, enabling a fast-turnaround project. The primer’s excellent flow and leveling promote a smooth finish, allowing for a high-quality paint job.