Can You Paint Vinyl Siding? Pros & Cons

For those looking for economical options, Vinyl siding can be ideal for homeowners for an inexpensive, low maintenance construction finish for a long time. But over time even the most durable constructions, just like vinyl, can lose their touch, fade and even become out of style. Therefore, if your home appears old and outdated, you might have started asking can you paint vinyl siding? Yes. In fact, if you use the right techniques and products, the outcome can be great. However, before you paint or consider hiring someone to paint for you, there are many pros and cons of painting vinyl that you must consider. Consideration of the cons and pros will most certainly lead to a successful outcome that will be a long lasting, great vinyl paint job that elevates the value and curb appeal of your home.

What Is Vinyl Siding and Is It Even Paintable? 

Vinyl siding construction consists of polyvinyl chloride or PVC which is a weather, moisture and pest resistant plastic. This construction is then dyed colored as the hue is incorporated within. This is also a reason for the construction’s longevity as the shade is within the construction. Unlike paint, the shade will not chip or peel. Over a long period, UV light from the sun may cause fading or discoloration. Even though vinyl siding doesn’t require replacement for purely cosmetic reasons, many people do choose to repaint it because it makes the customer’s home appear more lively while avoiding the cost associated with full siding replacement. Vinyl siding/modern acrylic and urethane paints have been specifically designed to bond with vinyl’s surface to provide remarkable adhesion and pliability. They expand and contract with vinyl siding to help eliminate the cracking/peeling that typically occurs with the painting of siding materials.

Benefits of Painting Vinyl Siding

Generally, painting vinyl siding makes more sense than replacement, especially if the siding remains structurally sound. Here are the most important benefits of paint vinyl siding:

Economic Reversal

$10,000 to $20,000 is a rough estimate of the cost to replace vinyl siding on a home. Painting vinyl siding on the other hand is within the range of $2,000 to $4,000. If the siding is structurally sound and the only concern is the outward aesthetic, painting vinyl siding is the more cost-effective option.

Aesthetic Versatility

With painting, you have the option of completely transforming the color scheme of your home. If you want to modernize a beige exterior, for example, you could choose a sleek charcoal gray and stark white would brighten an outdated brown facade from brown to crisp white. You have an endless combination of choices. A paint job can make your home reflect your style.

Extended Lifespan

A vinyl exterior can be painted to add an additional layer of protection against ultraviolet rays and other elements. This protective covering, along with the quality vinyl paint, will defend against color fading and cracking while maintaining the vinyl siding, and greatly extending its life. 

Eco-Friendly Option

Choosing to repaint siding instead of replacing it would keep vinyl siding from going to the landfill. This reduces waste and maximizes the life of modern materials while economically conscious homeowners would appreciate the other side of the coin. 

The Drawbacks of Painting Vinyl Siding

Even with the many advantages, painting vinyl siding is not always the ideal solution. It’s important to consider the drawbacks.

Limitations of Color

Not all colors are appropriate for vinyl siding. The darker colors absorb more heat which may cause the vinyl siding to expand and even warp. It is advisable to use lighter shades or colors that are close to the original color. Although “vinyl-safe” paints are made for vinyl siding, there will still be issues if you decide to paint it darker.  

Surface Preparation

Vinyl may be low-maintenance, but it still requires thorough preparation if you plan to paint. It is important to remember that dirt, chalky residue, mildew, and oxidation all need to be removed before any painting is to be done. It may also be necessary to pressure wash and use a mild detergent or cleaning solution. Poor paint adhesion and peeling will happen if this step is skipped or done poorly.

Temporary Nature of Paint

There will be little down time for vinyl surfaces that receive a high quality paint. Plan on a vinyl surface to receive painting or maintenance every 7 to 10 years. New vinyl siding, on the other hand, can last 20 years or more before significant fading occurs.

Warranty Issues 

Painting your vinyl siding may void the manufacturer’s warranty, especially if you use the incorrect paint or color. It’s best to look over your siding warranty or contact the manufacturer to ensure the right steps are taken before any action is taken. 

Need for Professional Skills 

Although some homeowners paint as a DIY cover organic project, exterior vinyl demands a high level of precision. Poor technique, overspray, or uneven coats may lead to a patchy look as well as shorter lasting quality. This is why hiring an experienced vinyl painter may be the best decision even if it does escalate the price. 

Best Practices for Painting Vinyl Siding 

If you decide to paint for whatever reason, best practices must be observed to guarantee quality and durability.

• Thoroughly Clean: This involves removing dirt, mildew, and chalky oxidation which can be effectively done by power washing. Although, ensure it is done under low pressure to avoid damaging the panels. 
• Inspect for Damage: Before paint can be applied, any cracked, warped, or loose siding must be replaced or repaired as paint will not cover up any physical flaws. 
• Select the right paint: It is polymer safe to use 100 percent acrylic latex paint. This is because it will be vinyl safe and will effectively adhere as well as withstand fading.
• Prime if Needed: Most modern paints for vinyl don’t require priming, but if your siding is severely faded or chalky, applying a bonding primer can improve results.  
• Paint in Ideal Conditions: Do not paint in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. For optimal curing conditions, choose mild, dry weather between 50°F and 85°F.  
• Apply Even Coats: For a consistent finish, use a sprayer and, if necessary, light back-rolling to provide uniform coverage.  

By following these, you may obtain a finish that looks like new siding, but without the expense of putting new siding on.  

When Not to Paint Vinyl Siding  

 Painting is not always the right answer. If your siding is cracked, warped, brittle, or pulling away from the structure, a fresh coat of paint won’t solve underlying issues. In such cases, replacement is the better option to ensure your home remains weatherproof and structurally sound. In the case that the siding is extremely old or low quality siding is made of thin gauge vinyl then the painting may not properly bond or could highlight problematic areas. Assessments from trained siding professionals can explain whether your siding can be painted or if it would be the more cost-effective route to replace siding completely.  

Is painting vinyl siding worth it or not?  

For people focused on saving their home and avoiding thousands on exterior replacement while getting the added flexibility to design their home, painting is a fantastic option. Removing old vinyl siding to replace with new could lead to more environmental waste as old material is simply tossed. Other benefits include protecting siding from exposure to the elements and weathering and extending the life of the siding while simultaneously improving the aesthetic. The difference between a successful and non-successful job is the lack of appropriate preparation, proper paint selection and lack of quality work. In Calgary, Edmonton or other similar areas with extreme weather, it is important to consider the use of light or reflective colors and flexible vinyl safe paints to minimize the chances of warping and cracking.  

Conclusion

It is a clearly rewarding option if the siding is in good condition and the property owner is looking for a change aesthetically. However, if the siding is damaged, brittle or aged; replacing it would make more sense from a long term point of view.Painting makes old vinyl more attractive and can tremendously enhance a property’s appearance at a minimal cost compared to replacement. Still, the decision to paint requires careful consideration. Understanding the trade-offs, using the right materials, and following the correct procedures are essential for a successful vinyl siding paint job.  Paint vinyl siding can enhance the appearance of a home and can even increase the lifespan of the siding. With a proper technique and an appropriate approach, one can confirm the siding can still be beautiful and fully functional for years to come.