Everything You Need to Know About Aluminum Siding Painter Services
When your home’s exterior starts to look dull or weathered, you might consider a complete overhaul. But before you jump into replacing your siding, there’s a more cost-effective solution worth exploring: hiring a professional aluminum siding painter.
Giving your aluminum siding a fresh coat of paint not only boosts curb appeal but also extends the life of your siding, saving you thousands of dollars in replacement costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know
about siding painters—how they work, why they matter, and how to get the best results for your home.
Why Hire an Aluminum Siding Painter?
Aluminum siding was a popular exterior finish choice for homes built between the 1940s and 1970s, and it’s still found on many homes today. Over time, though, exposure to weather conditions can cause fading, chalking, and general wear and tear. That’s where a professional aluminum siding painter comes in.
Painting your aluminum siding is:
- Cost-effective – It's significantly cheaper than installing vinyl siding or other replacements.
- Customizable – You can update your home’s appearance with modern
paint colors to suit your style.
- Protective – A fresh coat of exterior paint helps shield the metal from further corrosion and damage.
Can You Paint Aluminum Siding?
Yes, you absolutely can! In fact,
painting aluminum siding has become a popular home improvement option for homeowners looking to refresh the look of their home without a full siding replacement. However, it’s not as simple as grabbing a paintbrush and going at it. Proper preparation and technique are key for a long-lasting, flawless
paint job.
How to Paint Aluminum Siding: Key Steps Professionals Follow
If you’re considering a DIY approach or simply want to better understand what to expect from a professional aluminum siding painter, it's essential to learn the step-by-step process that ensures long-lasting results.
Painting aluminum siding is not just about applying a fresh coat—it’s about proper preparation, choosing the right products, and knowing the techniques that lead to a smooth, durable finish. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how the pros do it:
1. Assess the Siding's Condition
Before beginning, professionals thoroughly inspect the aluminum siding for signs of damage such as dents, corrosion, peeling paint, or mildew. If the siding is too damaged—beyond cosmetic issues—repainting may not be enough, and replacing the siding might be more cost-effective. However, if the surface is structurally sound, it’s a perfect candidate for repainting.
Pro Tip: Minor dents can be patched using automotive filler, which is then sanded smooth for a seamless look.
2. Thorough Cleaning: No Skipping This Step
One of the most critical parts of preparing aluminum siding for painting is cleaning it thoroughly. Dirt, chalky residue, mildew, and old paint particles can all prevent new paint from adhering properly.
Here’s how the pros do it:
- Pressure Washing: Using a pressure washer on a low to moderate setting helps remove loose grime and chalk without damaging the metal.
- Cleaning Solution: A mixture of
1 gallon of water, 1 cup of bleach, and 1/3 cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) is often applied using a soft brush or sprayer. This formula helps remove mold, mildew, and oxidation from the metal surface.
- Rinse Well: After scrubbing, the siding is thoroughly rinsed with clean water to remove any residue from cleaners.
Pro Tip: Allow the siding to dry completely—ideally for 24–48 hours—before moving to the next step.
3. Sanding the Surface
Once dry, painters lightly sand the aluminum to remove any remaining chalky residue and create a slightly rough surface that helps the primer adhere better. Sandpaper or sanding sponges with a grit between 80 and 120 are typically used.
Pro Tip: Don’t over-sand. The goal is to dull the finish, not remove layers of the siding.
4. Priming: The Foundation of a Long-Lasting Finish
A bonding primer specifically designed for metal surfaces is applied next. This step ensures that the aluminum siding paint will stick evenly and resist peeling. Most professionals prefer:
- Oil-based primers for superior durability and adhesion
- Acrylic latex bonding primers for eco-friendlier, low-VOC applications
Primer is usually applied with a sprayer for a uniform coat, though brushing and rolling are options for smaller areas or touch-ups.
Pro Tip: Choose a primer that is labeled “for metal” or “for aluminum” and ensure it’s compatible with your final paint choice.
5. Choosing the Right Paint
When it comes to aluminum siding house paint, pros don’t just grab any exterior paint off the shelf. They go for high-quality, 100% acrylic exterior paints that are:
Fade-resistant
- Flexible (to handle temperature fluctuations)
- Moisture-resistant
- Mildew-resistant
The paint finish also matters. Most pros recommend satin or eggshell finish, which offers the best balance of durability and aesthetic appeal—providing just enough sheen without highlighting imperfections.
Pro Tip: Avoid glossy finishes, which can reveal dents and uneven spots on metal siding.
6. Application: The Right Technique Makes All the Difference
Professional painters often use a paint sprayer to ensure a smooth, even coat over large siding surfaces. This avoids brush marks and roller lines. However, for trims, corners, and hard-to-reach areas, brushes or rollers may still be used.
Here’s what to expect:
Two coats are generally applied for full coverage and long-term durability.
Each coat is allowed to dry thoroughly—typically 4 to 6 hours depending on
weather conditions—before applying the next.
Painters work in moderate temperatures (50–85°F) and avoid high humidity or direct sunlight to ensure proper drying and adhesion.
Pro Tip: Painting during the spring or early fall typically provides ideal weather conditions—cool, dry, and less chance of rain.
7. Final Touches and Cleanup
After the final coat dries, pros inspect the siding for any missed spots, drips, or uneven textures. Touch-ups are made as necessary. Once satisfied, they clean up overspray, remove masking tape and drop cloths, and leave your property looking crisp and refreshed.
Pro Tip: Keep a small can of leftover paint for future touch-ups—especially useful if you notice minor dings or fading over time.
By following these professional-grade steps, you’ll not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also
extend the life of your siding—adding value and protection for years to come. Whether you decide to hire an expert or tackle it as a DIY project, the key lies in preparation, product quality, and careful application.
Should You Paint or Replace Aluminum Siding?
If your aluminum siding is structurally sound, painting is often the better option. Replacement is only necessary when there’s significant physical damage or rusting beyond repair.
Here’s a quick comparison:
In most cases, painting offers a cost-effective way to update and protect your home’s exterior without the high price tag of full replacement.
Signs It's Time to Repaint Your Aluminum Siding
- The original color has faded significantly.
- There are visible chalky residues when you rub your hand across the siding.
- You notice bubbling or peeling from an old
paint job.
- You simply want to update the style and paint colors of your home.
Tips for Homeowners: Working with a Professional Aluminum Siding Painter
Hiring a pro ensures you get optimal results with minimal stress. Here’s what to look for in a siding painter:
Experience specifically with
aluminum siding house paint projects.
- Knowledge of surface prep and metal-compatible paints.
- A portfolio of past work or customer references.
- Warranty options for labor and materials.
And always ask about the painter’s plan for preparing aluminum siding for painting—because good prep is what separates a job that lasts a year from one that lasts a decade.
Don’t Forget Vinyl: Can You Paint That Too?
Many homeowners wonder about the difference between painting aluminum and vinyl siding. While both can be painted, vinyl requires flexible paint that expands with the material. Aluminum, on the other hand, offers a more rigid surface that holds paint well when prepared correctly.
McCauley Construction: Crafting Quality Homes for Over 20 Years
By understanding the ins and outs of painting aluminum siding, you’re better equipped to make smart, budget-friendly decisions that preserve your home’s charm and function for years to come. Whether you’re tackling a full repaint or just exploring your options, a fresh coat can go a long way in breathing new life into your home’s exterior.
With more than two decades of experience, we are dedicated to enhancing the beauty, functionality, and value of your home with expert craftsmanship and unparalleled customer care. Whether you're considering painting your aluminum siding or tackling a complete exterior transformation, our team delivers results you’ll love—on time and on budget.
Contact McCauley Construction Services today for a free consultation and discover how we can make your home the standout on the block.