Learn How To Easily Go Darker When Painting Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular, affordable exterior siding option for many homes. Overtime though, vinyl siding can start to look faded and worn. Painting your vinyl siding is an easy and budget-friendly way to give your home's exterior a fresh, updated look. Going with a darker shade when you paint can really transform the aesthetic. Darker colors lend a more sophisticated, elegant vibe. But painting vinyl siding darker does require some special considerations to get the best possible results.
We'll cover everything from choosing the right paint and prep work to weather conditions and maintenance. Follow these pro tips and you can easily take your vinyl siding from drab to dramatic with a gorgeous dark shade.
Should You Go Darker with Your Vinyl Siding?
Before diving into the how-to, let's first discuss whether going darker is the right choice for your home's vinyl siding. There are a few factors to weigh:
- Darker colors show dirt, dust, and flaws more easily than lighter shades. Expect to need to power wash more frequently.
- The darker the color, the more prone to fading and wear over time. Re-application may be needed more often.
- Dark surfaces absorb more heat from sunlight. This can warp siding and contribute to indoor heat gain.
- On the plus side, darker colors lend a more upscale, sophisticated look.
- Going darker can refresh old, faded vinyl siding and restore curb appeal.
In general, aim to go no more than two shades darker than the original. Drastic dark colors are risky. Focus on rich neutral earth tones like black, charcoal, dark brown, or dark green.
Consider Your Home's Architecture
The style and era of your home should guide color selection. For example, Craftsman style bungalows look best in darker, earthy hues. Colonials and ranch homes may suit lighter, more traditional colors. Don't overwhelm a vintage home with an overly modern black.
Energy Efficiency Impact
Darker surfaces absorb more solar radiation, increasing heat gain indoors. This can raise air conditioning costs. However, new dark-colored paints containing heat-reflective pigments can help mitigate this effect.
Choosing a Darker Paint Color for Vinyl Siding
Once you've decided to go darker, selecting the right color is key. Stay close to the original vinyl siding color. Jumping from tan to black, for example, is too drastic. Gradual, subtle darkening is best. Here are some tips for choosing:
| Color Tips | Examples |
|---|---|
| Neutral earth tones are easiest to pair | Brown, green, gray |
| Moderately dark, not black | Charcoal, espresso |
| Complement other trim colors | Deep green with cream trim |
View color chips in both sunlight and shade to get an accurate impression. Seeing swatches on the home is ideal. For drastic changes, consider getting a small test patch painted first.
Coordinate with Existing Scheme
Make sure to consider colors of other exterior elements like the roof, trim, and accents. The new darker vinyl siding color should complement the existing color scheme. Aim for an integrated, holistic look.
How Much Darker Can You Go?
As a rule of thumb, limit the darker shade to no more than two levels down on a color chip deck. Gradual darkening is recommended to avoid issues. Anything more risks warping or damage to the vinyl from excess heat absorption.
Preparing Vinyl Siding for Painting
Proper prep work ensures paint adheres well and resists chipping or peeling down the road. Here are the key steps:
- Wash siding thoroughly with a power washer. Let dry fully.
- Scuff sand using fine 120-150 grit sandpaper to rough up surface.
- Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.
- Apply bonding primer or vinyl etching solution.
Caution: Never paint vinyl siding that feels hot to the touch from direct sun exposure. Painting over heated vinyl can cause failure down the road.
Ensure a Clean, Dry Surface
Any dirt, debris, chalky areas, or mildew will prevent proper adhesion. Scrub siding well and rinse thoroughly. Let dry 24-48 hours before painting.
Scuff Up the Finish
Scoring the glossy vinyl finish with fine sandpaper gives the paint something to grip. Be sure to smooth over sanding marks before painting.
Prime Bare Spots
For any exposed raw vinyl areas, apply a PVC primer sealer first according to manufacturer directions to aid adhesion.
What Type of Paint to Use on Vinyl Siding
Not all paints are created equal when it comes to vinyl siding. Using a paint formulated especially for vinyl will offer the most durable and longest-lasting results. Here's what to look for:
- 100% acrylic or urethane binder
- Vinyl-safe formulation
- Satin or semi-gloss finish
- Top brands: Sherwin-Williams, Behr, Benjamin Moore
Pay a little extra for quality paint from a trusted brand designed for your application. The cost will be well worth it in longevity and performance.
Choose Acrylic or Urethane Paint
These resin types offer greater flexibility and adhesion power than cheaper latex paints. They expand and contract better with vinyl through temperature changes.
Select the Right Finish
Satin or semi-gloss sheens offer the best durability and allow for easy washing. Flat or matte finishes risk staining and can be hard to keep clean.
Paint Application Tips and Techniques
Follow these best practices when applying the paint for a professional quality outcome:
- Always follow manufacturer instructions for application and drying times.
- Apply paint in steady back and forth strokes overlapping slightly.
- Work methodically section by section for complete, even coverage.
- Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick one.
- Allow proper curing time between coats as directed.
Use high quality application tools - a soft brush for trim and edges and a medium nap roller for flat expanses. Take your time using proper technique for best results.
Get Complete, Consistent Coverage
Inconsistent coverage can lead to a blotchy, splotchy finish. Maintain a wet edge and overlap passes to prevent this. The color should look uniform once complete.
Thin, Multiple Coats Maximize Durability
Applying paint too thick creates problems like drips, uneven drying, and weak spots that can crack or peel. Multiple thinner coats is far better.
Ideal Weather Conditions for Painting Vinyl Siding
Weather and temperature impact paint application and drying. For best results, only paint in ideal conditions:
- Dry weather with zero chance of rain
- Low humidity - less than 85% humidity
- Temperatures between 50-90degF
- Avoid direct sunlight or high winds
Check the forecast and avoid days with precipitation, dense fog, or high winds which can ruin the paint finish. The surface should also be dry with no morning dew.
Beware Heat and Humidity
High heat causes paint to dry too quickly preventing proper adhesion. High humidity or fog will also negatively impact results. Ideal temps are 60-80degF.
Caring for Newly Painted Vinyl Siding
Once your vinyl siding paint job is complete, follow these maintenance practices to keep it looking fresh:
- Allow paint to cure fully before exposing to rain or sprinklers
- Clean gently with a soft brush and mild soap as needed
- Rinse well and avoid abrasive scrubbing
- Inspect annually for any cracks or paint failure
- Consider touch ups or recoating every 5-7 years
With proper prep, application, and care, your newly darkened vinyl siding will maintain its beautiful facelift for years before needing a refresh.
Let Paint Fully Cure Before Exposing to Elements
Resist running sprinklers nearby or using a power washer for at least several weeks after painting to allow paint to fully bond and seal.
Annual Inspections Catch Minor Issues Before Major
Closely inspect for any chips, cracks, blisters or other paint flaws annually. Quickly touch up spots as needed to avoid deterioration.
FAQs
Does vinyl siding need to be primed before painting?
For best results, yes - an adhesion promoting primer will help the new paint stick tightly to the vinyl siding long-term without peeling or chipping.
What kind of paint brush is best for vinyl siding?
Use a high-quality nylon or polyester bristle brush. Avoid hard bristle brushes that could scratch the siding surface.
Can you use spray paint on vinyl siding?
Yes, spray painting is an option but it can be trickier to get good coverage compared to rolling or brush painting. Always back-brush after spraying.
How long does painted vinyl siding last?
Typically 5-7 years before needing a recoat, depending on climate factors. Harsh sun and heat may shorten lifespan. Proper prep and paint selection maximizes durability.
Painting vinyl siding a darker shade provides a budget update that boosts home curb appeal. By selecting an ideal rich color that complements your existing scheme and following the preparation, paint selection, and application tips above, you can achieve stunning results.
Going dark requires some maintenance considerations but with periodic washing and inspections, your freshly painted vinyl siding will continue looking rich and beautiful for years before needing a refresh. Use this guide for a smooth, successful vinyl siding painting project from start to finish.