Successfully Repaint Your Vinyl House Siding in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Difficulties of Painting Vinyl
Painting vinyl siding is difficult for several different reasons. Vinyl has a very high coefficient of expansion and contraction. Exposure to sunlight, then periods of darkness cause the vinyl to significantly expand and contract from temperature differences. In the past, exterior paints were unsuccessful because the paint-siding bond wore down from the movement.

Another problem with vinyl siding is that it absorbs a great amount of heat. Minnesota has periods of warm weather and if the siding gets too hot, it can warp or damage paint. To avoid distortion, many vinyl products are offered in lighter colors. Manufacturers highly recommend that you paint the vinyl siding no darker than its current shade because repainting it too dark of a color can damage it.

For example, light beige siding can be repainted light green, blue or tan. Use color cards at a paint store in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area as a guide. If your vinyl siding is white, it may damage to siding to paint it darker. If your siding has been damaged or you want a different color than white, it may be necessary to replace the siding. For free estimates from Minneapolis siding contractors, click here.

New exterior paints are now available that have been formulated to adhere to vinyl siding. The best paints are latex with a blend of urethane and acrylic resins because they can endure the movement of vinyl siding without cracking. They have been so successful that the paint manufacturers offer a long term warranty as long as you follow the instructions on the label. Buying a high quality paint that lasts 20 years will save you time and money than using a cheaper paint that will quickly wear out.

Steps to a Successful Paint Job

1. Prepare the area. Clean the siding with soapy water or a power washer to remove dirt and mildew. Be sure the siding is dry for the best paint bond. For more information about cleaning your siding, click here.

2. Work in cool weather. Contrary to popular belief, hot sunny weather is not the best time to paint your house in Minnesota. Paint on overcast days when there is no sunlight so the paint can dry and form a stronger bond with the vinyl siding.

3. Finish what you start. Never paint a section of vinyl siding unless you can finish it. If you repeatedly start and stop painting an area, the siding will look spotty rather than smooth and neat. Apply two coats of paint for the best durability.

4. Clean the brushes. Always wash out your brushes and rollers after each use if need you to take a break. You could put the brush into a plastic bag for a short time to keep the air from drying it out but don’t leave in it the bag over night.

Siding Repairs
If the Minnesota sunlight has warped or buckled your vinyl siding, simply repainting it will fix the problem. It would be best the area repaired or have new siding put in to improve the appearance of your house. You may want to choose a lighter color of vinyl so the siding doesn’t absorb as much heat and damage it.

Also, if your vinyl siding looks too worn and shabby for repainting, you can make it look better by having new siding put on. The life expectancy of vinyl siding is between 20 to 30 years, so it will need to be replaced eventually. We can help you find the best siding contractor for you. Our contractors have passed a background check and have met state licensing and insurance requirements. Click Here For Up to 4 Free Estimates for Siding Contractors in the Minneapolis, Minnesota Area.