In this guide, I’ll show you which siding types accept paint, which ones don’t, and the exact steps to get professional results. You’ll learn the common mistakes that waste money and time.
Why trust me? I’ve painted over 300 homes in the past decade. From vinyl to wood to fiber cement, I’ve seen what works and what fails.
Here’s what you’ll learn: paintable siding types, step-by-step instructions, cost comparisons, and tips for hiring a pro or going DIY.
After reading this, you’ll know exactly how to paint your siding properly.
What Types of Siding Can Be Painted?
Most siding materials accept paint well. But some require special techniques, while others should be left alone.
Here’s what works and what doesn’t:
1. Painting Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding paints extremely well. I used to think vinyl couldn’t be painted. That’s an old myth.
Modern acrylic latex paints stick to vinyl like glue. The secret is proper prep work and choosing lighter colors than your existing siding.
Why lighter colors? Dark paint absorbs heat and can warp vinyl. Stick to colors with a Light Reflectance Value of 55 or higher.
Your vinyl siding will look new for 10-15 years with quality paint.
2. Painting Wood Siding
Wood siding is a painter’s dream.
It accepts paint naturally and holds it well. Cedar, pine, or engineered wood all work great with paint. I always recommend primer first, especially going from dark to light colors.
The prep work takes time, but the results are worth it.
3. Painting Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding loves paint.
Most fiber cement comes pre-primed from the factory. This makes your job easier.
James Hardie and similar products are designed to be painted. The manufacturer recommends repainting every 15 years to maintain the warranty.
Use 100% acrylic latex paint for best results.
4. Painting Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding can be painted, but it needs special attention.
The challenge? Paint doesn’t naturally stick to aluminum’s smooth surface.
Here’s what works: Clean thoroughly with TSP (trisodium phosphate). Use a high-quality bonding primer. Apply two coats of acrylic latex paint.
Skip the cheap paint here. Quality matters more with aluminum than any other siding type.
5. Siding Types You Shouldn’t Paint
Some materials fight paint no matter what you do.
Avoid painting these:
Brick siding – Paint traps moisture and damages the brick over time.
Natural stone – Same issue as brick. The paint will eventually peel and look terrible.
Stucco with texture issues – If your stucco is cracking or has moisture problems, paint won’t fix the underlying issues.
Brand new siding – Wait at least 60 days before painting new siding. It needs time to cure.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Paint House Siding
Ready to tackle this project? Here’s my proven process.
Step 1: Inspect & Repair
Walk around your house with a notepad.
Look for loose boards, gaps in caulk, or damaged areas. Fix these issues first. Paint won’t hide structural problems.
Common repairs needed: Loose siding boards. Cracked caulk around windows. Small holes from nails or screws. Rotted wood sections.
Don’t skip this step. I’ve seen paint jobs ruined by underlying problems.
Step 2: Clean Thoroughly
Dirty siding equals peeling paint. Power washing works best for most siding types.
But be careful with the pressure settings: Vinyl needs low pressure (1500 PSI max). Wood needs medium pressure (2000 PSI). Fiber cement can handle medium to high pressure (2500 PSI).
Let everything dry completely. This usually takes 24-48 hours. Can’t power wash? Scrub by hand with a TSP solution and a stiff brush.
Step 3: Prep the Surface
This step separates amateur jobs from professional results.
Scrape loose paint with a paint scraper. Don’t try to remove all old paint unless it’s peeling badly. Sand glossy surfaces lightly with 120-grit sandpaper. This helps the new paint stick.
Prime bare spots with a high-quality bonding primer. Don’t skip primer on raw wood or metal. Protect plants and walkways with plastic sheeting or canvas drop cloths.
Step 4: Choose the Right Paint
Paint quality matters more than brand names.
Look for these features: 100% acrylic latex formula. Paint and primer in one (for most projects). Mildew resistance. UV protection.
Sheen recommendations: Satin finish for most siding. Semi-gloss for trim and doors. Flat finish only on textured surfaces.
Color tip: Test your color on a small, hidden section first. Colors look different in various lighting conditions.
Step 5: Apply Paint Properly
Weather matters. Paint when temperatures are between 50-85°F with low humidity. Start at the top and work your way down. This prevents drip marks on freshly painted sections.
Brush vs. spray vs. roller: Brush gives best control, takes longest. The roller offers good coverage, medium speed. Spray is fastest but requires more skill.
Apply thin, even coats. Two thin coats beat one thick coat every time. Work in sections to maintain a wet edge. This prevents lap marks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Siding
I’ve seen these mistakes cost homeowners thousands in do-overs.
- Skipping surface prep – The most expensive mistake you can make. Clean, repair, and prime properly.
- Using cheap paint – Bargain paint looks bargain. Spend extra money on quality paint and primer.
- Painting in bad weather – Rain, high humidity, or extreme temperatures ruin paint jobs.
- Rushing the process – Each coat needs proper drying time. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Ignoring manufacturer instructions – Every paint is slightly different. Read the label.
- Overloading the brush or roller – Less paint per stroke gives better coverage and fewer drips.
How Long Does Painted Siding Last?
Quality paint jobs last surprisingly long.
Typical lifespans: Vinyl siding lasts 10-15 years. Wood siding lasts 8-12 years. Fiber cement lasts 12-18 years. Aluminum siding lasts 10-14 years.
Factors that affect longevity: Paint quality. Surface preparation. Weather exposure. Maintenance.
Extend your paint’s life with annual washing and touch-ups as needed.
Benefits of Painting Siding Instead of Replacing
- Costs 60-80% less than replacement ($2-4 vs $8-15 per square foot)
- Saves weeks of time – painting takes days, not months of construction
- Keeps old siding out of landfills and reduces waste
- Gives unlimited color choices instead of limited manufacturer options
- No permits or major disruption to your daily life
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
| Cost | $1-2 per sq ft (materials only) | $2-4 per sq ft (labor + materials) |
| Time | Several weekends | 3-5 days typically |
| Skill Required | Basic painting experience helpful | Expert techniques guaranteed |
| Equipment | You buy or rent tools | All tools included |
| Warranty | None on labor | Usually 2-5 year warranty |
| Best For | Single-story homes, good condition siding | Multi-story homes, extensive repairs needed |
Conclusion
Can you paint siding on a house? Absolutely. I’ve shown you exactly how to do it right.
The key is proper preparation and choosing quality materials. Don’t rush the process. Take time with cleaning, repairs, and priming.
Your home deserves better than faded, worn siding. A fresh coat of paint protects your investment and improves curb appeal instantly.
I’ve painted hundreds of homes using these exact methods. The results speak for themselves.
Ready to get started? Pick a small test area first. Perfect your technique there. Then tackle the rest with confidence.
Your neighbors will ask who did the work. That’s when you’ll know you succeeded.
Stop staring at that tired siding. Grab your brushes and change your home this weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will paint void my siding warranty?
Most siding warranties allow painting after the initial curing period. Check your specific warranty terms, but painting typically doesn’t void coverage for manufacturing defects.
Can I paint over existing paint on siding?
Yes, you can paint over existing paint if it’s in good condition. Remove any loose or peeling paint first, then clean and prime as needed before applying new paint.
What happens if I paint vinyl siding a darker color?
Dark colors can cause vinyl siding to warp from heat absorption. Stick to colors with a Light Reflectance Value of 55 or higher to prevent damage.
How much does it cost to paint house siding yourself?
DIY siding painting typically costs $1-2 per square foot for materials only. A 1,500 square foot home would cost roughly $1,500-3,000 in paint and supplies.
Should I use a brush, roller, or spray gun on siding?
Each method works well depending on your skill level and time constraints. Brushes give the best control, rollers offer good speed and coverage, while spray guns are fastest but require more experience.
