How Do You Fix Peeling Paint on Aluminum Siding?

Compared to wood siding, aluminum siding requires a little maintenance. That’s why it became so popular in the first place. But if you encounter an issue of peeling paint from your aluminum siding, don’t worry a bit. If you have the right tools and guidance, this is not going to be a daunting task for you.

How Do You Fix Peeling Paint on Aluminum Siding?

There are plenty of reasons for aluminum being the most popular siding material. Before aluminum became so popular, wood used to be the best choice for this specific task. But after world war II, aluminum was cheaper, affordable and available with ease. 

On the other hand, siding made with aluminum didn’t require a lot of maintenance the way wood siding did. Due to its insulating properties and weather protection, no other metal was nearly as suitable as aluminum was at that time. Though vinyl siding has snatched away the popularity in today’s market.

Even then if your house has aluminum siding and it looks old, it does not mean that you have to change the siding or replace it with vinyl siding right away. With a little care and effort, your old aluminum siding can do a great job. 

Step 1: Preparation

Before painting your aluminum siding, you need to remove any dented or damaged section you have. With aluminum, you always get some advantage with such repair works. You can follow these simple steps mentioned down below:

Step 1: You have to draw a square around the part that you want to remove.

Step 2: Cut the section you have drawn with tin snips and a utility knife.

Step 3: Cut the replacement patch to size in a way that the replacement patch is 3 inches larger than the required section. And apply silicone caulk on the back of the patch.

Step 4: Press the patch on the required area by tucking the patch’s top on the back of the row of siding.

Step 5: Remove the extra silicon by using your finger and smoothen the repaired area.

The next essential preparation before painting the aluminum siding is cleaning the peeling paint. A clean surface will help the primer and the paint to stick to the siding. Also, you are going to have a smoother finish.

For cleaning purposes, you can use a dedicated cleaner for aluminum siding. But a mixture of TSP (trisodium phosphate) will work just fine. Follow the instruction mentioned on the TSP package for the best outcome. 

If you have a smaller house, you can do the cleaning by hand using a scrub brush or sponge. But if the house is big, try a pressure washer to save some time and effort. While cleaning with the pressure washer or power washer, be sure that you are using a low-pressure tip and direct the water stream downwards to the point.

If you point the water spray upward, the water may go behind the siding. And remember to remove the rust or any other aluminum oxidation before painting.

Another great way to clean the peeling paint is an orbital sander. Though an orbital sander might take a longer time than the power washer does, but it is more efficient. The orbital sander has a disc with a couple of holes that sucks the dust through the hose to the vacuum. 

With the orbital sander, you can clean almost all of the paint and that is a good option if your house is small. But for a bigger house, the pressure washer might be the best option for you.

Step 2: Applying the first coat of primer

The primer applying process might take only a few seconds per square foot. While applying remember to apply from only one direction, either right to left or left to right. This will make the process more efficient and maximize the drying time as well.

You can use a paint roller to apply the paint evenly. The timing of the painting is important as the rain or dust can hamper the process.

After the first coat of primer has dried, apply the second coat of primer. As primer may take more or less 4 hours to dry, you have to determine the painting plan accordingly.

Step 3: Paint the aluminum siding

Make sure to paint in the same direction your siding has. For example, if your siding is horizontal, paint from left to right or right to left. And if your siding is vertical, paint up to down.

Step 4: Apply the second coat of paint

Take a break of about two hours to start applying the second coat of paint. This is an opportunity for you to fix any kind of mistakes that may have occurred during the first coat of paint. 

Finally, when it is done, wait for the siding to dry and then check if you have missed any spot.

Required Apparatus 

Painter’s Tape and Plastic Sheets

While painting it is crucial to use painter’s tape and plastic sheets where it is needed. You don’t want to put paint on your car or some of your tools. But remember to remove the tape right after you have finished the painting. You don’t want them forever there.

Synthetic Fiber Brushes

If you are working with acrylic exterior paint, synthetic fiber brushes are the best option you have got.

Paint Rollers

With the paint rollers, you will be able to maximize the coverage of the surface area.

Plastic Paint Buckets

A paint bucket is essential for you during the process when you will be using the ladder to paint the upper side of the siding.

Plastic Paint Trays

Large plastic paint trays are important when you are using a paint roller.

Drop Cloths

Using drop cloths will help you keep the area safe. So make sure you have one of them.

Ladder

To paint the upper side of the siding, you must have a ladder. This is one of the most crucial tools that you must have.

Primer

Before painting, applying primer is important as it will cover the porous surface and make the surface smoother for painting

Exterior Paint

For exterior paint, we will recommend acrylic paint. And for color options, try to avoid the darker colors, as they absorb more heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you paint the aluminum siding by yourself?

Ans: Even if you have never done this before, you can go along. If you have the right tools and guidance, it will not be a matter.

Q: How long does paint last on aluminum siding?

Ans: If the painting is done correctly, you can expect it to last 5 to 10 years. And with proper maintenance, the painting will last up to 40 years.

Q: How long does it take to paint aluminum siding?

Ans: For an average-sized house, it might take 3 days. One for the preparation, one for priming, and the rest for exterior paint.

Conclusion

There are many factors that work behind peeling off the paint from the aluminum siding. The key to fixing the peeling paint and apply a new one is cleaning and priming. If you have done the cleaning and priming correctly, you are going to have a nice finishing that is going to last long.

Restoring your home’s aesthetics doesn’t have to be daunting with the right understanding of how to manage painting aluminum siding. This process includes preparing the surface, removing paint peeling and using the most latex paint that adheres well to aluminum surfaces. Fixing paint drips and ensuring a smooth and even application is equally crucial for a flawless finish.

To maintain your paint job’s longevity, it’s essential to regularly inspect your aluminum siding and address any issues immediately. With the correct treatment, most latex paint can withstand different weather conditions and minimize the chances of peeling or chipping. Thus, when done properly, you can avoid having to repeat aluminum siding painting frequently, saving you both time and money.

In the end, the durability and the new look that your aluminum siding will possess after painting is largely dependent on the steps you take. If the process seems overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. The beauty of your home is worth the investment and effort. As we always say, a stitch in time saves nine, so address any signs of paint peeling on aluminum siding promptly.