Know Painting Vinyl Siding Tips and Advice

Painting vinyl siding is not an easy task.. Vinyl siding has a very high expansion/contraction coefficient, which implies that its elasticity is high and expands (for instance, when it is exposed to sunlight) but can also contract considerably (as in darkness). This elasticity compels traditional exterior paints to fail; the constant back and forth motion weakened the bond between the paint and the siding.

Two decades have passed since the vinyl siding with new construction began. The scientific discoveries today have enabled vinyl siding to be totally maintenance free. Painting vinyl siding is an excellent way to make it appear new. Talk to a professional who will be able to tell you the painting cost and then get started with painting vinyl siding.

The key to painting vinyl siding

Before you paint, start cleaning the mildew and dirt that has accumulated over the years. Using a power washer is a very efficient way to accomplish this. After you have cleaned, you need to rinse thoroughly; this is necessary for the paint to adhere to the surface. You can get help from the various cleaners that are available at the local hardware stores.

Refrain from painting vinyl siding under the direct rays of the sun; better results are obtained by painting in an overcast weather.

The paint will last well if you choose a high-grade acrylic latex paint, which has the best bonding capability for vinyl siding. This kind of paint expands and contracts with vinyl and thus does not crack.

It is advisable to apply two coats of paint; this offers excellent adhesion and the flexibility that is required on vinyl siding. This will also resist fading and peeling for a longer period of time.

The main advantage of painting vinyl siding is to get a new color scheme. In your neighborhood, perhaps all the houses are made of similarly-colored vinyl siding. This could be your chance to make your house stand out with a thoughtful change in exterior paint décor.

Take care that the new color is lighter than the original color. Vinyl siding is manufactured for resisting specific levels of heat. If you choose a color that is too dark, it will absorb more heat; this, in turn, could cause siding to be warped or buckled.