Do I Have To Use Primer On Aluminum Siding

Some books and magazines on painting recommend that you prime aluminum siding and or paint over existing aluminum siding with water based primers.

Do i have to use primer on aluminum siding.

Most high quality paints will apply directly over aluminum siding without the need for a primer but make sure you read the manufacturer s recommendations on the can before you grab one off the shelf. All of the chalkiness must be washed and scrubbed off and any flaking paint removed. The most important thing is to clean the surface properly getting any chalk and dirt off of the surface. The siding could last indefinitely but it might not look good after being exposed to the elements for decades.

The problem is that there are quite possibly pinholes or cracks that are not visible to the naked eye where the old aluminum paint has worn off. Then paint with two coats of acrylic paint. Aluminum siding is known for its durability and its low need for maintenance. Once everything is clean and dry you re ready to apply your primer.

In a nutshell you need to start with a clean palette. This can spell disaster. Before you paint aluminum siding clean the surface thoroughly and prime the siding with one coat of acrylic primer. Steps for painting aluminum siding.

If the aluminum is outside use a power washer to remove all grit and grime that can stick to the aluminum surface. If you prefer an acrylic primer you may do so use. Painting aluminum siding faqs how long does paint last on aluminum siding. After you will want to use a water base primer for any raw aluminum and a quality 100 acrylic latex paint apply two coats.

With painter s tape and lengths of plastic sheeting protect items and areas adjacent to the siding. Remember that acrylic primer should only be used on acrylic paint. The key to painting aluminum siding is preparation and priming. Acrylic primers provide a stable base while sticking to metal and not reacting to any oxidation on the siding.

As long as the siding is clean you won t need to use a primer unless raw metal is exposed. You should not use latex primer because most of the time it contains ammonia. For truly greasy or dirty aluminum siding or other outdoor pieces use a commercial degreaser in the power washer or sprayed on the surface to ensure it is as clean as possible and ready to take on primer and paint. Aluminum siding paint typically lasts from five to 10 years and aluminum siding is easy to paint.

Finally since metal is such a good heat absorber avoid painting siding while it s getting direct sunlight. I prefer to use a pressure washer tsp and a nylon scrub brush for this.