Vinyl siding's so durable, it's difficult to justify upgrading it just for a change in curb appeal. At least, that mindset has been our struggle. Exterior painting as an alternative to replacing is an approach we've encountered firsthand... and it looked so good, you'd never have known it wasn't the original vinyl color.
As economic pressure continues to delay big projects, home improvement experts offer a voice of understanding: “Homeowners are finding new ways to stretch their budgets by being proactive and creative," shares Angie Hicks, Co-Founder of Angi.
“Painting vinyl siding is a great way to refresh your home’s exterior without the cost of replacement," adds Chris Gurreri, Product Manager at Purdy. "When done correctly, it can give long-lasting results."
If you consider painting vinyl to be a shortcut, or a make-do that'll hold you over until you're ready to afford new siding, remember that surface prep, tools, and paint all matter. If you understand the steps and are choosing products designed for vinyl’s unique surface, you're on your way to improving your home's aesthetic.
1. Pick the Right Tools and Products
- Cleaning supplies: soft-bristled brush, wire brush, power washer, detergent, clean water, and/or packaged cleaning solution
- Low-grit sandpaper: choose 80-120 grit
- Mini paint rollers: Use a ½" nap for older or slightly textured siding
- Paint brushes: Use 2½" or 3" brushes for cutting in (the experts we spoke with specifically recommend the Purdy XL Series Brush with an Angled Sash)
- Accessories: Consider using a pail and an extension pole
When choosing paint, look for formulas made for hard-to-coat surfaces like vinyl. We were discussing the project with Dutch Boy, who shared that they had two options built specifically for this purpose:
- Maxbond® Plus Exterior Paint + Primer: It features Extreme Adhesion Technology for vinyl and aluminum, has excellent adhesion, weather resistance, and fade protection. It resists rain in just 1.5 hours to guard against unexpected showers.
- Pristine™ Exterior Paint + Primer: It has a super-premium finish that resists rain (within 1 hour!) and delivers a smooth, high-end appearance. It's Dutch Boy®’s most durable exterior coating.
Color selection also plays a big role in performance. “It’s best to choose a color that’s the same depth or lighter than the current color," notes Hedberg. "Darker colors absorb more heat, which can cause vinyl to warp. Dutch Boy Paints offers a wide range of curated exterior colors to help homeowners choose a look they’ll love.”
2. Clean the Surface and Check for Damage
Before anything else, clean, clean, clean.
“Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly," echoes Matt Hedberg, Product Manager at Dutch Boy® Paints. "Dirt, mildew or chalky residue can prevent the paint from adhering properly. A mix of mild detergent and water works well, and there are also a variety of pre-packaged cleaning products available that are specifically meant for cleaning siding."
He recommends using a power washer or scrubbing by hand with a soft brush. While you're working up close, notice if any panels are cracked or loose. You'll want to repair them before painting.
For stubborn areas, wire brush can help scrub debris (just like you'd use a metal scrubber for your dish pans).
Once it's clean, let the surface dry completely for 24-48 hours before painting.
3. Sand Glossy Areas
Paint doesn’t stick well to slick exterior surfaces.
“Lightly sand overly glossy spots to help paint adhere better with a sanding block or low grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface prior to painting,” notes Gurreri.
Focus on any shiny or slick sections so the paint has a rougher surface to grip.
4. Prime if Necessary
Priming isn’t mandatory, but it depends on the quality exterior paint you choose and the condition of your siding. Hedberg notes this specifically, and again recommends using a product like Dutch Boy Maxbond Plus Exterior, which is formulated with Extreme Adhesion Technology for hard-to-coat, non-porous surfaces like vinyl.
He adds, "However, if the type of siding is weathered, porous, or you're making a significant color change, a bonding primer may help ensure optimal coverage, durability and overall performance of your topcoat.”
A professional painter would use primer if:
- The siding is weathered or chalky
- You're switching from a dark color to a much lighter paint color
- The vinyl surface looks patchy after cleaning
5. Apply Paint (During the Right Weather Conditions)
Try to paint when it’s between 50°F and 85°F. Avoid direct sun, rain, or high humidity. These conditions help the paint stick properly and dry evenly.
Use the Marathon™ Jumbo Mini Roller for broad areas and a Purdy XL Series Brush with an Angled Sash for cutting in. For crisp lines around trim, the Purdy Clearcut® works well. Apply two thin coats instead of one thick one; this gives better coverage and lasts longer.
Pair your roller with the Purdy POLE+ to safely reach higher spots without overreaching or dragging out a ladder for every section.
6. Maintain the Finish
To keep it looking fresh, rinse the siding once a year to remove dirt and mold or mildew. And when we say rinse your house, we mean gently with a hose. Don't use a pressure washer during maintenance if you can help it.
Check for any peeling or fading every few years and touch up where needed.
FAQ
What's the cost of painting vinyl siding?
If you’re hiring a professional, expect to spend between $3,000 and $15,000 for an exterior paint job depending on the size of your home, how many gallons of paint are needed, and where you live. Yes, it can be more!
DIYers can often do it for under $1,000 if they already have some of the supplies.
Can I use a paint sprayer to paint vinyl siding?
While sprayers might seem faster, expert advice leans toward using specific rollers and brushes. The siding’s shape and texture make it hard to get even coverage with a sprayer, and overspray can create a mess on surrounding trim, windows, or landscaping. Gurreri recommends using tools like the Marathon Jumbo Mini Roller for broad sections and the Purdy XL Angled Sash Brush or Purdy Clearcut for trim and edges—both designed for better control and cleaner results on vinyl.
Can you paint vinyl siding any color?
No; Hedberg recommends sticking with a color that’s “the same depth or lighter than the original siding color." He warns that darker colors absorb more heat, which can cause vinyl to warp.
How long will the paint job last?
With quality materials and special prep, it can last 8 to 10 years or longer. Cleaning it regularly and doing minor touch-ups can extend that even more.
