Much like the rest of your home’s exterior, your aluminum painting will fade. Here are some great tips for repainting all of it!
Eventually, your home’s exterior may start to fade due to exposure to the elements. Anything from snow and rain to regular rays of sunlight can leave your home vulnerable to siding damage, which can open the floodgates to moisture and other issues. However, if you have aluminum siding, you can avoid some of this thanks to its rust resistance, inability to rot, and how well it stands up to fire or insects. Aluminum siding will, like any other kind of siding, begin to fade, though. Many people opt to paint their aluminum siding to restore its beauty and vibrancy. If you choose to go that route, just consider these tips before you get started.
Clean First
Before you start, you want to clean the surface first. Sometimes aluminum siding can develop a chalky film that must be removed before you can do anything else. Otherwise, your new coat of paint isn’t going to stick. If the siding isn’t chalking, you still want to clean the surface, remove any dirt or mold, and leave it as spotless as possible. If you’re dealing with extremely dirty aluminum siding, consider deploying a power washer at the lowest setting while standing 6-8 feet away.
Surface Prep
If you’re painting over a surface that isn’t straight from the factory, meaning it isn’t the original finish, you may have to check for loose or peeling paint. Scrape any of that off and sand any edges smooth before you apply paint. It’s important that you prep the surface, including popping out any dents or replacing any sections that are damaged.
Apply Metal Primer
Using a proper layer of primer is essential if you want your paint to go on smooth. It’s also important to prevent mildew or oxidation while creating a surface that’s perfect for applying paint. Many people recommend oil-based primers (rather than latex) when working with aluminum siding. However, whatever option you choose, let it dry for at least 48 hours before you apply paint.
Use the Right Paint
When choosing the right paint for aluminum siding, exterior acrylic latex paint is your best bet. Just avoid an overly glossy finish. Otherwise, it will draw attention to dents or other imperfections in your siding. Satin or eggshell are good options and are also easier to clean. Like your primer, let the paint dry for 48 hours between coats.
NEW LOCATIONS! VISIT US HERE AND EXPLORE!
We’ve moved from the Dobbin Road location to our new, roomy location just down the road:
Columbia Paint and Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer: 6822 Oak Hall Lane, Suite C2, Columbia MD 21045 phone number: 443-319-4001
Expect the same one-stop shopping for all your decorating needs. We are a full-service Benjamin Moore dealer offering the best quality decorating products at the best prices around. We have ample paint and paint supplies, wallcoverings, custom window treatments, fabrics, and now, NEW flooring selections from Kaleen Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Tile samples. And, of course, the same excellent customer service, knowledge, and customer satisfaction that you’ve come to expect.
ANNOUNCING OUR SECOND LOCATION:
Clarksville Paint & Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
12447 Clarksville Pike, Suite 1A, Clarksville, MD