Aluminum siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, weather resistance, and easy maintenance. However, after years of exposure to the elements, the paint on aluminum siding can start to deteriorate leaving your home looking rundown and faded. So what paint and primer is best?
Acrylic paints are the best choice for aluminum siding as they tend to be more flexible than other types of paint. Additionally, a self-etching primer should always be used before painting aluminum siding. This will help ensure that the new paint adheres to the siding correctly. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 4 factors to consider when choosing paint for aluminum siding
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for aluminum siding
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Aluminum Siding
1. Quality of Paint
Choose a high-quality paint that will adhere well to the aluminum siding and provide long-lasting protection. A high-quality paint will resist fading, blistering, and peeling.
Though high-quality paint may come with a premium price, it is a long-term investment that will save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent paint jobs.
2. Type of Paint
Choosing the right paint for aluminum siding is essential. There are a few different types of paint available, including latex, oil-based, and acrylic.
Each type of paint has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know which one will work best for your specific needs. Their level of adhesion, durability, and glossiness can help you determine which one is the best option.
3. Paint Finish
The finish of the paint is another factor to consider. Different finishes can change the look of your siding and can even have an impact on the durability of the paint. The higher the gloss level, the more durable and scratch-resistant the paint will be.
4. Application Method
It’s important to choose the right application method when painting aluminum siding. The most popular methods are spray, roller, and brush.
If you decide to use a sprayer, make sure it’s specifically designed for painting metal surfaces. Rollers or brushes can also be used for larger areas and provide better coverage than spray paint.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion and stabilizers. It is water-soluble and very stable, making it an ideal choice for aluminum siding.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to fading, cracking, and peeling
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- Can be applied over existing coatings without sanding or priming
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- Not as resistant to chipping as other paints
- Can be difficult to apply in cold weather conditions
- Requires multiple coats for full coverage
Latex Paint
Latex paint is a water-based paint made of pigments, binders, and water-based liquids. It is commonly used for interior projects due to its durability and non-toxic properties.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Non-toxic
- Durable
- Flexible
- Low odor
Cons
- May require multiple coats for full coverage
- Not as resistant to fading or chalking as other paints
What Paint Finish Is Best?
For painting aluminum siding, the best paint finish options are either gloss or semi-gloss. This is because aluminum sidings are exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as sun, rain, wind, and snow.
A high-gloss finish is ideal for aluminum siding as it provides a shiny, reflective surface that is easy to clean and maintain. Not only does it give a sleek appearance, but it also prevents dirt and grime from sticking to the surface, making it easier to keep the siding looking new.
On the other hand, a semi-gloss paint finish is an excellent choice for those looking for a paint finish that strikes a balance between gloss and matte finishes. It offers a subtle sheen that is not as reflective as a gloss finish but provides more shine than a matte finish.
Additionally, semi-gloss paint has higher moisture resistance, ensuring that the aluminum siding remains protected against harsh weather elements.
The Best Paint and Primer for Aluminum Siding
Best Paint
Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew-Proof Exterior Paint is the ultimate solution for homeowners looking to paint their aluminum siding. This paint is specifically formulated to resist mold and mildew growth for up to 5 years, making it ideal for use on exterior surfaces.
Furthermore, the paint is designed to provide a durable and long-lasting finish for up to 15 years, ensuring that you won’t need to repaint your siding anytime soon.
Additionally, this paint is self-priming, which means you can apply it directly to the surface without the need for sanding or other preparatory work.
Not only is this paint resistant to mold and mildew growth, but it is also fade-resistant and able to resist dirt and moisture. This makes it the perfect choice for use in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall.
One of the best things about the Zinsser Perma-White paint is that it is tintable to any off-white, pastel, or medium earth-tone color, giving you the flexibility to choose the perfect color for your home’s exterior.
Best Primer
Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Latex Aluminum Primer is an excellent choice for homeowners or professionals looking to paint aluminum siding. This specially formulated primer provides superior adhesion and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long-lasting finish that will withstand the elements for years to come.
The water-based acrylic formula is easy to apply and provides a protective coating that prevents rust and other types of corrosion from damaging the surface underneath.
It dries quickly, usually within 1-2 hours, and covers up to 55-90 square feet (5-8m²) of surface area, depending on the condition of the aluminum.
One of the standout features of this primer is its ability to create a strong bond between the aluminum and the topcoat. This ensures that the topcoat adheres firmly to the surface, creating a durable finish that is resistant to peeling and flaking over time.
In addition to its excellent performance characteristics, Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Latex Aluminum Primer also offers a flat gray finish that can be easily covered with a wide variety of topcoats.
This makes it an ideal choice for painting aluminum siding, as it allows homeowners to achieve their desired color and finish without sacrificing the durability and protection offered by the primer.