Can You Paint Metal Siding? A Step-by-Step Guide

Metal siding, whether aluminum or steel, can be a durable and low-maintenance option for your home’s exterior. But you might wonder, can you paint metal siding like you would wood or vinyl siding? Yes! Even the toughest metal siding can benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Need help learning how to paint yours? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started painting metal siding.

Key takeaways: painting metal siding 

• Painting metal siding can enhance the appearance of your home’s exterior and provide additional protection against weather.

• It is cheaper to paint your metal siding rather than replace it.

• You should use paint with rust-inhibiting properties to prevent corrosion and rust from forming on your painted metal siding.

Pros and cons of painting metal siding

Unlike some other types of siding, you don’t have to paint metal siding. But there are several advantages to doing so. For one, painting metal siding can dramatically enhance the appearance of your home, allowing you to update its look and potentially increase property value. You can choose from various metal siding paint colors to match your style or complement your surroundings. It is also more affordable to change or customize your home’s exterior by painting your metal siding rather than replacing it.

A fresh coat of paint on metal siding provides additional protection against weather-related damage. It can help shield the metal from rust, corrosion, and UV damage, extending the lifespan of the siding.

Of course, there are some disadvantages to painting metal siding, too. When painted, your exterior may require more regular maintenance to keep it looking its best and avoid damage. This includes periodic cleaning and touching up any chips or scratches to prevent rust from forming.

Preparing metal siding for paint 

Before you can paint your metal siding, it is crucial that you complete some prep work first. Start by cleaning your siding to remove any dirt, dust, or other debris that may interfere with your paint job. Next, check the siding for any signs of rust or corrosion. Use a wire brush or a sanding pad to remove loose rust and flaking paint. For severe rust, consider using a rust remover or rust-inhibiting primer. You should also repair any dents or holes in the siding at this point. These steps are crucial for achieving a smooth paint finish and preventing your work from needing to be redone sooner.

How to choose the right paint for metal siding

Choosing the right paint for metal siding is essential. In most cases, acrylic latex paint is the best option for metal siding due to its flexibility, durability, and resistance to UV rays. It adheres well to metal surfaces and can handle fluctuations in temperature. Regarding the paint finish, many professionals recommend a satin finish over something matte because it is easier to clean and less prone to stains. You should also consider going lighter with the color of your paint, as darker colors on the exterior of your home tend to absorb more heat and can weather your metal siding. The final factor to remember when choosing the right paint for your metal siding is to get paint with rust-inhibiting properties, especially if you had previous rust issues.

How to paint metal siding

Step one: Apply a primer

After you have cleaned and made any necessary repairs to your metal siding, you should apply a primer before you start painting. Choose a primer that is specifically formulated for metal surfaces and contains rust-inhibiting properties. Apply a thin layer to the entire exterior and then wait for it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step two: Apply your first layer of paint

Once your primer is dry, you are now ready to paint. Using a brush, roller, or sprayer, apply a thin, even coat of your chosen paint over the entire metal siding. Then let it dry.

Step three: Apply additional layers as needed

You can apply as many layers of paint as you want to achieve your desired color and ensure a solid color with no streaks. However, it is crucial that you wait for each layer of paint to dry fully before adding another layer.

Step four: Apply a top coat

To enhance the longevity of your work, it is advised that you apply a weather-resistant latex top coat designed for exterior siding as your last step. This will ensure that your color lasts, help prevent the paint from chipping or peeling, and protect against the formation of rust. Also, allow time for your top coat to dry fully.

How to care for painted metal siding

Painted metal siding requires additional care to avoid problems and keep it looking its best. One of the most important care tips involves regular cleaning. You should clean the siding at least once a year, using a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft-bristled brush or a sponge. A pressure washer can also work if you’re dealing with a larger area, but make sure you set the pressure to a moderate or low level to avoid damaging the paint on your siding or the siding itself. Also, if your metal siding is exposed to heavy pollution, dust, or other contaminants, you may need to clean it more often than just once a year.

Remember to regularly inspect your painted metal siding, too. If you notice peeling or flaking paint, address it promptly by sanding the affected areas, applying a primer, and repainting. If there is rust, you can sand down minor spots, apply your primer, and repaint as well. But if you’re dealing with severe rust, you might want to consult a professional about repairs.

Replacing vs. painting metal siding

The main factor to remember when considering whether to replace or paint your metal siding is cost. Replacing your entire siding can be expensive, and painting is a much cheaper option upfront. But paint can only do so much. If your metal siding is generally in good condition but looks worn, painting might be sufficient enough to refresh its appearance. On the other hand, if your siding has significant rust, dents, or structural issues, it might be a better choice to replace it altogether in order to ensure a longer lifespan and save you more money later on.

Painting metal siding: the bottom line

Overall, painting metal siding can be an inexpensive way to upgrade your home’s exterior and protect it from the elements. So, if you’ve been yearning for a change, pop that can of paint!

Frequently asked questions

Acrylic latex paint is the best option when painting exterior metal siding because it is flexible, durable, and easy to apply and clean. You should also choose a rust-inhibiting paint, including additives that help prevent rust and corrosion.

Painted metal siding that is well-maintained and was painted using high-quality materials can last around 15 to 30 years. However, certain weather conditions, such as humidity, sunlight, snow, or rain, may cause the paint to fade or peel. So, some experts recommend repainting your metal siding every five years to ensure your exterior’s appearance is up to par.

Yes, you can paint over oxidized metal siding, but careful preparation is required to ensure the paint adheres properly and performs well. You should scrub and clean the siding to remove all oxidation or rust. If you’re dealing with more severe rust, you may need to use a rust remover product.

You can brush paint metal siding. Brushes are preferred in areas where you need more precision and control. However, brush painting your metal siding can be time consuming, so experts recommend using a handheld paint sprayer for this project. This tool will cover a larger area and provide a smoother finish, though it may be more challenging for those who have not used a sprayer before.