Vinyl siding has become a top priority for many homeowners looking to enhance their home’s aesthetics while reducing maintenance costs. One way to give your vinyl siding a makeover is a fresh coat of paint. So what is the best paint and primer to use?
A 100% acrylic paint is the best option for vinyl siding. It’s easy to apply, highly durable, and adheres well to the surface of vinyl siding. An acrylic primer should also be used to ensure a more even finish. Primers help seal the surface of vinyl siding, and they provide greater adhesion.
In this article, you will learn:
- The factors to consider when choosing paint for vinyl siding
- What finish is best
- What type of paint to use
- The best paint and primer for vinyl siding
4 Key Factors for Choosing the Perfect Paint
It’s important to take certain factors into consideration before beginning the painting process. (Be sure to refer to my comprehensive guide on painting vinyl siding for more information.) Here are the 4 key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Climate
Climate plays a significant role in determining the type of paint you choose for your vinyl siding. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions that include high humidity, intense heat, or freezing temperatures, you need paint that can withstand these conditions.
Paints that can resist ultraviolet rays, prevent fading, and prevent water retention are ideal for such areas.
2. Color
Choosing the right color for your vinyl siding is an essential factor to consider. Color enhances the home’s curb appeal, and you want to choose a color that complements your home’s exterior and blends well with the surrounding.
However, you need to avoid dark colors, which tend to absorb heat and may cause the siding to warp.
3. Paint Type
Vinyl siding doesn’t absorb paint well. Therefore, it’s necessary to use the right paint type. Vinyl-safe paints are better than regular latex house paint since they expand and contract with the changing temperature. It’s best to use paint specifically designed for vinyl siding to ensure the durability of the paint.
4. Paint Quality
The quality of paint is crucial in determining the longevity of your vinyl siding. Low-quality paint may require frequent repainting, leading to additional costs.
High-quality paint bonds well with the vinyl siding, preventing peeling and fading. Look for top-rated paint brands tailored for vinyl siding and read their reviews before purchasing.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic Paint
Pros
- Acrylic paint is highly durable and long-lasting, making it ideal for outdoor use
- It is available in a wide range of colors, allowing you to customize the look of your home
- Acrylic paint is resistant to fading and chalking, ensuring your home will maintain its fresh look for years
- It is easy to apply and can be used on new and old vinyl siding
Cons
- Acrylic paint can be more expensive than other types of paint, so it may not be the most cost-effective option
- It may not adhere well to older vinyl siding exposed to extreme temperatures or weathering over time
- If applied incorrectly, acrylic paint can cause warping or bulging in vinyl siding due to thermal expansion
- It is difficult to remove if you don’t like the color or want to change it later
Oil-based Paint
Pros
- Oil-based paints provide a more durable finish than latex paints, making them ideal for exterior surfaces
- They also offer better adhesion and resistance to fading, chalking, and peeling
- Oil-based paints can be used on various surfaces, including wood, metal, concrete, and masonry
Cons
- Oil-based paints take longer to dry than latex paints and require more time for cleanup
- They also tend to have a strong odor that can linger after the painting is complete
- Oil-based paints are more expensive than latex paints, so this may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget
- It can be harder to find since many countries have restricted the sale of oil-based paints due to environmental concerns
What Paint Finish Is Best?
When choosing the best paint finish for vinyl sidings, the ideal option is a satin finish. This finish strikes the perfect balance between durability and reflectivity, making it an excellent choice for surfaces constantly exposed to various environmental factors.
One of the main advantages of using a satin finish for vinyl sidings is that it provides great coverage, even in areas with high traffic. It also has a smooth, refined appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of the siding.
The surface is less prone to wear and tear, making it perfect for areas exposed to harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and other environmental factors.
Furthermore, a satin finish is relatively easy to clean and maintain, helping to keep your vinyl siding looking great for a longer period. This finish is also water-resistant and ideal for areas with high humidity levels.
The Best Paint and Primer for Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a plastic material that tends to expand and contract with temperature changes. If the wrong paint or primer is used, it may not adhere properly to the siding or crack and peel over time.
A high-quality vinyl primer will help the paint adhere better to the siding and minimize the risk of cracking or peeling. It is also important to choose a paint specifically designed for use on exterior surfaces, as this type of paint is formulated to withstand exposure to the elements, including sunlight, wind, and rain.
Spray paint is often recommended for painting vinyl siding because it provides a smooth, even application and bonds well with the surface.
In addition, spray paint is easier to apply than traditional brush-on paint, which can leave streaks and brush marks. Spray paint also dries quickly, ensuring that the surface is ready for a second coat or touch-ups in a short time.
Best Paint
Zinsser PermaWhite Exterior Satin Paint is the ultimate choice when painting vinyl siding. This low-odor formula paint offers long-lasting durability that makes it stand out from other alternatives in the market. Its self-priming property allows it to adhere to surfaces without sanding, making it time and energy-efficient.
One of the significant advantages of this paint is its coverage. With its ability to cover between 75-100 square feet per quart (7-9m2 per liter), you can complete your painting project faster and with ease.
Additionally, this paint has a quick drying time of only 30 minutes, making it perfect for individuals always on the go.
Best Primer
Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer is designed to adhere to all surfaces, including vinyl, without sanding. Its water-based formula ensures uniform sealing and exceptional stain-blocking resistance, making it an ideal choice for priming vinyl sidings.
One of the standout features of Bulls Eye 1-2-3 primer is its exceptional coverage. It can cover up to 100 sq. ft. (9m2) per can, providing a thick and even coat that ensures excellent adhesion to the siding.
Plus, it dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and requires only one hour of dry time before re-coating. This means that your vinyl siding will be ready for painting in no time.