Do I Have To Use Primer On Aluminum Siding

Once everything is clean and dry you re ready to apply your primer.

Do i have to use primer on aluminum siding.

You should not use latex primer because most of the time it contains ammonia. After you will want to use a water base primer for any raw aluminum and a quality 100 acrylic latex paint apply two coats. The siding could last indefinitely but it might not look good after being exposed to the elements for decades. Some books and magazines on painting recommend that you prime aluminum siding and or paint over existing aluminum siding with water based primers.

Aluminum siding paint typically lasts from five to 10 years and aluminum siding is easy to paint. Aluminum siding is known for its durability and its low need for maintenance. The most important thing is to clean the surface properly getting any chalk and dirt off of the surface. In this video toh expert shares his tips and demonstrates how you clean and prepare the surface for painting.

Steps for painting aluminum siding. In a nutshell you need to start with a clean palette. Then paint with two coats of acrylic paint. Finally since metal is such a good heat absorber avoid painting siding while it s getting direct sunlight.

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. If the aluminum is outside use a power washer to remove all grit and grime that can stick to the aluminum surface. 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. I prefer to use a pressure washer tsp and a nylon scrub brush for this.

Then apply two coats of a 100 acrylic latex paint by whichever application method you prefer. Acrylic primers provide a stable base while sticking to metal and not reacting to any oxidation on the siding. With painter s tape and lengths of plastic sheeting protect items and areas adjacent to the siding. Once you have completed the paint job remember to remove the tape.

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. The key to painting aluminum siding is preparation and priming. All of the chalkiness must be washed and scrubbed off and any flaking paint removed. Before you paint aluminum siding clean the surface thoroughly and prime the siding with one coat of acrylic primer.

Remember that acrylic primer should only be used on acrylic paint. If you prefer an acrylic primer you may do so use.