I am getting ready to paint the exterior of my house, which is finished with aluminum siding. What’s the best way to clean the siding to prep it and should I prime before painting if the color I’m putting on is darker than the original paint? What other tips can you give me to make this project easier?
Signed, Hoping for an Easy Way
A: Dear Hoping for an Easy Way,
While aluminum siding can be very durable, there are a few things you need to know about working with it, as well as maintaining it.
Before starting, be sure to adequately “pad” your ladder in order to reduce the chance of denting or scratching your siding. Additionally, always adjust your ladder’s height so that the “touch” point is directly under the bottom edge. You do not want to have to repair a dent!
When cleaning, I do not recommend using a pressure washer on aluminum siding, unless you are a very experienced operator. You will want to hand wash your home using warm, soapy water and then rinse with a garden hose. You can also use a product called TSP and water if you like, just be sure to wet and then cover any plants that are located in the affected area (remove cover once washing has been completed). If your siding has a chalky substance on it, you will want to remove it entirely. Using a buffing pad works well here but be sure to let siding thoroughly dry before priming.
For paint you will want to use a 100% acrylic primer and paint. Some of the brands that make paints for aluminum siding are Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore and Glidden. There are others, so check around. I highly recommend using a sprayer to apply the paint, although it can be brushed on as well. If you chose to spray, be very careful about any overspray, as it can create collateral damage in a hurry. When painting, choose a time when there is not a lot of prolonged sunshine — a non-threatening cloudy day works best.
If your siding is showing signs of wear (denting, etc.), I would recommend staying away from the glossier finishes, as they will show more of what you will want to conceal.
Be sure to keep trees and shrubs pruned back away from your siding, as aluminum tends to scratch easily. You will also want to make sure that all of your aluminum corners are securely attached to your house. And finally, when painting a house always start at the top and work your way down. Apply a generous coat each time as you will want to avoid having to place a ladder up against your siding as much as possible.
Get it done before cold weather sets in. Good luck!
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his newly adopted white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.