Can You Paint The Siding On A House? (5 Things To Know)

Yes, you can paint the siding of your home, and we get asked about this a lot. However, to get great results, there are some specific steps you need to follow.

Here at McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we are here for home and commercial building owners. Whether you're looking for reliable information or quality service, we're here to help you every step of the way. In this blog post, we will discuss the viability of painting your house siding, the pros and cons, and five things you should know before getting started. 

Pros of Painting Siding

Here are the benefits of painting your home’s siding:

Budget Friendly

Painting siding is generally cheaper than completely replacing it, especially if the existing siding is in good condition. The cost of high-quality exterior paint, supplies, and labor (if hiring professionals) is typically lower than the expense of purchasing and installing new siding.

Refreshes Appearance

A fresh coat of paint can revamp the look of faded or weathered siding, enhancing your home's curb appeal without the need for a full siding replacement.

Extends Lifespan

Properly applied exterior paint can protect the siding from environmental factors (such as UV rays and moisture), potentially extending its lifespan by several years.

Cons of Painting Your Siding

Here are some drawbacks of painting the siding on your home:

Limited Lifespan

Even with high-quality paint and proper application, a siding paint job may only last 5-10 years before requiring repainting, depending on factors like climate conditions, sun exposure, and maintenance.

Preparation Required

Extensive preparation is critical for a successful and long-lasting siding paint job. It begins with repairing any damaged, warped, cracked, or loose siding boards to ensure a smooth, uniform surface. If the surface is not properly prepared or the paint is applied incorrectly, it can lead to peeling, bubbling, or other adhesion issues over time.

Not Suitable for Severely Damaged Siding

If the existing siding is warped, cracked, or in poor condition, painting may not be the best solution. In such cases, replacing the siding might be more cost-effective in the long run.

5 Things To Know Before Painting The Siding On A House

Before painting the siding on your home, here are five important things you should keep in mind: 

#1 Choose High-Quality Exterior Paints

When painting exterior siding, opt for top-quality 100% acrylic latex paints specifically formulated for outdoor use. Premium brands offer superior coverage, durability, and UV resistance compared to basic paints. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper surface preparation, application techniques, and drying times to ensure optimal results.

#2 Select Light, Reflective Colors

Most manufacturers recommend using lighter, more reflective shades on vinyl siding, as darker colors absorb more heat, potentially causing the siding to warp or expand excessively. Light neutrals like tans, grays, and pastels tend to be ideal choices that resist fading and cracking over time. Coordinate your siding color with your home's overall exterior palette, including the roof, trim, and landscaping. If you prefer a darker shade, look for specialty siding paints designed to withstand excessive heat buildup better on those surfaces.

#3 Ensure Your Siding Is Not Damaged  

Before painting vinyl siding, carefully inspect it for any damaged areas that need repair first. Look for warped, cracked, chipped, loose, or broken siding pieces and replace them as required. Painting over compromised surfaces will likely lead to further deterioration down the road and may even void the manufacturer's warranty. Only apply new paint once the existing siding is sound and smooth.

#4 DIY vs. Hiring An Expert

While a DIY approach can save money on labor costs, it requires a significant investment of time and skill to achieve professional-looking results. Hiring experienced painters may be the better choice, especially for larger homes or those with intricate details, as they have the expertise and equipment to tackle the job efficiently and correctly.

The duration of an exterior siding painting project largely depends on the size of the house and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. Professional painters can typically complete the job in just a few days, thanks to their experience and crew size. However, a solo homeowner taking the DIY approach may need over a week, especially for larger homes. 

Regardless of who does the work, suitable weather conditions are crucial. Aim for overcast days with mild temperatures and low humidity, as extreme heat, wind, or rain can prevent proper paint adhesion. Once painted, allow at least 24 hours of dry weather for the new paint to fully cure and adhere before any rainfall. 

Considering the significant time and effort involved, if you opt for a DIY approach, it's essential to plan and prepare meticulously, ensuring the availability of the required tools, materials, and safety equipment before starting the project.

#5 Assess The Age & Condition Of Your Existing Siding

The age and overall condition of your home's existing siding will play a significant role in determining whether painting is the best option. If the siding is relatively new and in good shape, a fresh coat of paint can revitalize its appearance and provide added protection. 

However, if the siding is old, severely weathered, or has multiple layers of previous paint, it may be more practical to consider a full siding replacement instead of painting. Applying new paint over excessively deteriorated surfaces will likely result in a subpar finish and potentially void any remaining warranties. 

Thoroughly inspecting the siding and consulting with a professional can help you decide if painting is a viable solution or if a more extensive renovation is necessary for optimal long-term performance and curb appeal.

How Much Does It Cost To Paint House Siding?

If you plan to paint your home's siding yourself, you'll need to acquire or rent the necessary tools and equipment. It's also crucial to consider safety precautions, especially when working at heights.

However, if you feel that a DIY painting project is not something you want to tackle, hiring professional painters is an option. The estimated cost for professional painting typically ranges from $1 to $4 per square foot. The cost can vary depending on the type of siding surface you need to be painted. Here's an approximate cost breakdown based on different siding materials:

Material	Approximated Cost (per square foot)
Brick	$1.40 - $4.20
Stucco	$1.50 - $4
Metal	$1.50 - $4
Wood	$1 - $3
Vinyl	$1 - $3
Concrete	$1.20 - $2.70

Remember that these are rough estimations, and the actual cost can be different depending on factors such as the complexity of the project, the condition of the existing surface, the quality of paint used, and the location. 

Also Read: How Much Does New Siding Cost? A Detailed Cost Breakdown

Call Us Today for Siding Services In Pittsburgh, PA

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we proudly stand as top-rated siding installers in Pittsburgh, PA. Let us assist you in selecting the ideal siding material and style that can complement the overall aesthetic of your home. Our team provides quality and custom siding services to fit your budgetary constraints.

Reach out to us at (412) 353-5660 to consult with our experts and discuss your project. Don't hesitate to request a free, no-obligation estimate today!