Can You Change the Color of Vinyl Siding Without Replacing the Siding?

Color Choice

• Drastic color changes will not work if you are painting vinyl siding. It is best to stick within a few shades of the original color. The one time this rule does not apply is if the original color is white. This gives you a little more leeway in terms of the colors you can choose. Keep in mind that most vinyl-safe paint is in muted colors, so if you are looking for a vibrant change, paint will not be the best option for you.

Preparing the Vinyl for Paint

• The vinyl siding must be properly prepared in order for the paint to adhere. It will need to be cleaned thoroughly with a dye-free dish soap. Use large sponges and scrub off any stubborn dirt. The vinyl siding must be given enough time to dry properly -- at least one day. Do not pressure wash the vinyl -- this will water log the siding and the area behind it. If you notice any mildew on the siding, it must be cleaned off with oxygen bleach.

Choosing the Right Type of Paint

• You cannot use regular exterior latex paint, either water- or oil-based, to paint your vinyl siding. This type of paint will not adhere properly to the surface. Only use vinyl-safe paint that specifically states that it is for use on siding. This step will save you a lot of headaches, not to mention money. Vinyl-safe paint will not buckle the siding, another common problem with other types of paint.

Tips for Success

• Vinyl siding is incredibly heat sensitive. It should never be painted on a hot, sunny day. Ideally, you should paint your siding on a day when it is overcast and somewhat cool -- below 72 degrees Fahrenheitif at all possible. Painting vinyl siding in windy conditions is not recommended either. This will disturb the surface of the paint and you will not have an attractive finished result. You can use a regular paint roller and a brush, but you should not use a paint sprayer to paint your siding.