Pros & Cons of Painting vs. Replacing the Siding

When you purchase your new siding, it’s gleaming and pristine. With weather and time, it can begin to look a bit lackluster. Replacing siding is costly but painting is messy. You can paint siding as an option. Here are the pros and cons of painting versus replacing siding.

Painting siding vs. replacing

Changing the color of your home with a new coating of paint will make a drastic change in your curb appeal. Both options will give you the results you are hoping for. The difference is a conundrum for homeowners looking to appease their exterior and their wallets. 

Factors to consider

Age of Siding

Siding is put in place to protect your home. Regardless of the aesthetic of the siding, this is the primary purpose for it. If it’s in bad shape or on the older side, painting siding may not be recommended. A coat of paint might make the siding look better, but if it’s not protecting your substrate, you may have wasted your time and money. Holes, cracks, loose pieces and any other signs of failure should be addressed with repairs or replacements to avoid costly repairs to the home under the siding due to moisture intrusion.

Costs

In many cases, it makes more financial sense to paint. If your siding is in decent structural shape but just faded or discolored, painting is a good option. This can reduce the waste and cost of updating the exterior of your home significantly. For example, the national average to paint a home is $3-5,000. New vinyl siding can cost upwards of $6,000 for 1,500 square feet of coverage.

Curb Appeal

A new coating of paint on your home can increase your curb appeal if you are getting ready for a sale soon. Beyond just making your exterior more maintained and appealing, you can expect to increase your home’s value by 2-5%. You’ll be looking at recouping about 80% of the cost of the painting.

Cons to Painting Siding

Warranties

If your siding is still under a warranty from the manufacturer, oftentimes painting will void any warranties. Therefore if you have discoloration or injury to the siding, it’s best to consider replacing it through the warranty program.

Life Expectation

Siding is expected to last 20-40 years depending on climate, precipitation and care. Paint won’t last nearly as long. If you are looking for a short term beautification, painting is a great option. For the long haul, replacement will last much longer while holding its luster.

Step-by-step guide to siding painting:

1. Condition
   Your siding should be in good condition prior to painting. Repairs and maintenance must be done regularly to keep the siding looking good without cracks, chips, dents or other imperfections.
2. Cleaning
   The siding will be pressure washed and spot cleaned where necessary. This clears away any debris or oils that could cause an adherence issue with new paint.
3. Priming
   If priming is necessary, our painters will apply an even coating. Priming can be used for a number of reasons but it only necessary particular times.
4. Paint Selection
   Choosing a proper paint and color is important to the outcome of your siding painting. Similar colors are recommended so that there is less risk of cracking and peeling. Work with your painters to determine the best options for your specific situation.
5. Painting
   Painting the home is more difficult than it might seem. There is a big risk of making unforgiving mistakes.
6. Maintenance
   Maintenance is crucial to keeping your siding in good condition. Touch ups are sometimes necessary, and an annual power washing is a good move. Be sure not to use too much PSI because you could peel the paint right off.

If you’re ready to paint your siding, learn more here. Schedule an estimate appointment with us today.