Steps to Refinish Your Vinyl Siding: Choosing Your Color Is Crucial

Many homeowners believe that they have to replace vinyl siding after several years, as opposed to rejuvenating it, such as siding of wood or even aluminum. The truth is, this material will respond to refinishing, if it’s done correctly. But, you should make sure that you have all of the information and details that you need before starting on this task.

The first fact that you should understand about vinyl siding is that sunlight will fade the color as time passes. It might not be realistic to expect lifetime performance if you’ve had this same siding for many years. It’s also important to know that you have to use the right paint, and the right color if you want to get several more years of service from your siding. As with any painting project, it is absolutely essential to devote time to preparing the surface, though this might take a bit less time than wood, for example.

Clean, Dry, Color

Make sure you use a good cleaning product. There are some that are manufactured specifically for use in the preparation step, before paint is applied. You can also clean by hand or use a pressure washer, though this should be done with all of the required safety steps and protections. Mold and mildew can be removed with warm water and bleach, using a garden hose for this preparation step.

Make sure the vinyl surface is completely clean and dry before starting the painting process. As for choosing your new color, you must avoid using paint that is darker than the original, because this can absorb and trap the sun’s heat, causing the siding to warp. Thanks to technology advancements, paint manufacturers now offer a wider range of colors that won’t absorb heat and cause warping. This is an essential step, so take your time choosing your color. Talk to a painting professional, as well, before making your final decision.

Testing, Testing

Use one of the latest acrylic coatings so that the paint adheres as it should. In fact, you should start by putting some paint on a small spot – on all sides of the house to get the right effect of the sun, wind, and other weather features. Allow the test areas to dry for two or three days to make sure the result is what you need. Some of the information on testing paint and vinyl involves making marks on the test surface, then using clear tape (packing tape) pressed firmly on the marked surface.

You should see little or no film on the tape when you peel it off. If there’s a lot of paint, it’s time to reconsider your color and paint choice. If the siding is damaged or warped, it’s probably time to remove the old siding and replace it with another product, including new vinyl. But most homeowners have found that if the siding still looks good, except for the faded color, it can be restored or refinished. Of course, this is a less expensive option that should be pursued if at all possible. Refinishing vinyl siding is certainly possible. But you should be prepared to do it the right way.