Vinyl siding is a perfect solution if you're searching for a low-maintenance and resistant method for outdoor facade preparation. However, is it that easy to paint over it in order to refresh its look? Check how to do it right.
Even though we usually associate the siding with the American suburbs, it's a popular solution worldwide due to various benefits. Contrarily to the painted facades, the siding doesn't need a general makeover every few years. That means neither scraping and sanding nor costly investments in good-quality paints. How is that possible? Vinyl is much more resistant to the changing conditions that can significantly influence the state of the facade - like UV radiation, humidity, and wind.
Nevertheless, some consider painting vinyl siding anyway - not out of necessity but because they'd like to provide their exterior walls with a new touch. Is it possible to paint it, and what can be the outcomes? We've prepared some tips to make it easier for you. But before, let's take a closer look at the benefits of siding.
Vinyl siding - what are its advantages?
One of the most appreciated advantages of vinyl siding is affordability. It's relatively cheap to do a general makeover with this method. Additionally, it's cost-effective in the long-term since it doesn't need the restoration like the painted facades. If you choose vinyl siding, you don't have to worry about the cracks, flaking paint, and the rapid loss of colour. Yes - the colour of the vinyl siding can also fade with time, but this process is significantly slower than in the case of regular paint.
Let's not forget about the extra isolation it guarantees. In the end, it's an additional layer, so it should help you with keeping the warmth inside and not letting the heat in. It's an advantage in any geographical sphere, regardless of if you use any heating or not.
How to paint the vinyl siding?
Painting the vinyl siding is that much different from any other makeover that includes paint. However, make sure to have some aspects in mind to avoid an impermanent effect.
#1 Choose the right products
If you select any regular paint, the level of adhesion may be too low. How to ensure that the coating sticks to the siding well? Make sure it contains acrylic and urethane resins. With these, you don't have to worry about the durability of the coating.
#2 Clean the siding
Skipping this step may result in a lower level of adhesion as well. Thorough cleaning will help you to remove the dust, sediment, mold, and other unwanted particles. Siding is known for its row-based structure that can facilitate the accumulation of dirt. And that will make the coating adhere less. Don't just use water - the best is to add some detergent in order to clean the siding properly. Even if you don't see all these particles at first glance, they're probably still there!
#3 Apply two layers of paint
One won't be enough, and more than two will be too much. A thin, nice coating is what you need. With two layers, you will have the color you wanted - bold and with no clearance. An important tip: always paint the vinyl siding when the weather is good. Any precipitation can ruin the effect and interrupt your work. In addition, it shouldn't be too cold or too hot. Low temperatures slow down the drying of the paint, while the high ones speed it up what makes painting more difficult.
Disadvantages of painting the vinyl siding
Painting the vinyl sanding can be a great way to give your exterior walls a nice new look. Nevertheless, note that once you do it, it will adopt the features of the regular painted wall. That said, you should expect some cracks and flaking after a few years - even if you choose high-quality products. So, once you paint the siding, you'll probably have to repeat this process once in a while. You could also remove the paint layer entirely - but it can be a time-consuming process. To avoid disappointing results, it's better to pass this task to a professional team of painters in London or in any other city that you live in.
By painting the vinyl siding, you can bring back the vivid colours and refresh the looks of your exterior walls. If you remember about the tips listed above, you'll surely succeed!
