Tools and Materials
Pricing and selection varies by location and online.
Inspect and Prepare the Surface
Before beginning your paint project, walk around your home to check on the condition of your vinyl siding.
Inspect for Damage
Addressing vinyl siding issues not only protects your home’s structural integrity but also preserves its curb appeal. Fortunately, many common repairs, like fixing holes or replacing cracked or loose panels, are simple enough for DIYers with basic tools and experience. Tackling these repairs yourself can save money and extend the life of your siding. For a step-by-step guide, check out our article: Repairing Siding on a House: Fixing and Replacing Vinyl Siding.
Cleaning the Siding
Cleaning vinyl siding before painting is a crucial step to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Choosing the right solution will help make cleaning easier. You can apply the cleaner with a sponge, pump sprayer or the soap setting on your pressure washer. Dish soap and water or a vinyl siding cleaner are good for normal dirt and grime. For mildew, a solution of 70% water and 30% white vinegar is best. For tough stains, an oxygen bleach is safer than chlorine bleach and won’t hurt any surrounding plants.
Working from top to bottom, apply the cleaner and let it work for five to ten minutes. Make sure that it doesn’t dry on the siding. Working again from top to bottom, rinse away the residue with a garden hose or your pressure washer. Let the surface dry at least 24 hours before painting to avoid peeling and poor adhesion.
Prep for Painting
Cover the areas you don’t want to be painted with plastic sheeting and painter’s tape or masking tape. This should include light fixtures, electrical panels, house numbers and mailboxes. You might also want to cover any plants and bushes to protect them from any paint drops or overspray.
Applying a coat of primer can help hide any stains and old paint, especially if you are going from a darker color to a lighter one. Use a paint roller or paint sprayer to apply the primer, working from top to bottom. Make sure the primer is dry before you start to paint.
You can skip using a primer when painting vinyl siding if you're using high-quality, vinyl-safe paint and not making a dramatic color change.
What Kind of Paint Should I Choose?
When painting vinyl siding, choosing the right paint is crucial to ensure durability, color retention, and proper adhesion. You should use 100% acrylic latex paint formulated for exterior use. Acrylic latex adheres well to vinyl and allows for flexibility as the siding expands and contracts with temperature changes. You should avoid oil-based paints as they tend to crack and peel as they’re too rigid.
Lighter colors are best because they reflect heat, helping prevent warping or buckling of the vinyl. If you want a darker shade, look for paints labeled as “vinyl-safe” or “vinyl-safe technology.” These are specially formulated to withstand higher surface temperatures.
Many paint manufacturers, including Valspar® and HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams, make vinyl-safe exterior paints. Look for labels like:
- HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams Weathershield® and Everlast™ Exterior Paint & Primer in One
- Valspar® Duramax®, SeasonFlex®, or Defense® Exterior Paint & Primer in One
Painting Your Vinyl Siding
For best results, apply paint when temperatures are between 50°F and 90°F, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent lap marks and uneven drying. Begin at the top of the wall and work your way down to maintain a consistent finish. Cut in around the edges and then into the middle area. A paint sprayer offers the most even coverage, but a roller or brush works well for smaller or detailed areas. Apply two thin coats, allowing each to dry fully before adding the next, to ensure durability and a smooth finish. Once painted, avoid washing or touching the siding for several days to allow the paint to fully cure.
Painting vinyl siding is an effective way to refresh your home’s exterior and give it a clean, updated look without the cost of replacement. With the right preparation and materials, you can achieve a durable, professional-looking finish that lasts for years. From choosing vinyl-safe paint to applying it correctly, Lowe’s can assist you through everything you need and advice to successfully paint your vinyl siding.