Bright colors
of flat paint tend to fade when exposed to ultraviolet light.
A painted finish can add color to ordinary aluminum siding; however, not all paints will produce the same results. Learn the difference between flat and satin paint before you settle on a choice, or you may end up with disappointing results. Condition the siding to improve its adhesive qualities or finish failure will result ,regardless of the paint you choose.
Prep Work
No type of paint will bond to aluminum siding unless it is conditioned prior to application. Before doing anything else, rinse the siding, using a pressure washer. Once the siding is washed, add a metal-etching base primer. Don't use plain latex or acrylic primers, or the painted finish will ultimately flake.
Flat Paint
Flat paint produces a dull finish that lacks sheen. This is a common choice because it produces less glare; however, the lack of sheen makes flat paint much more prone to staining. Even minor dirt stains are difficult to wash from flat painted finishes. Flat paint is also less resistant to moisture and tends to require repainting after a relatively short period of time. On the plus side, flat paint tends to hide flaws, such as gaps, cracks and fissures. This trait makes it a good candidate for old wood siding, which tends to have surface flaws.
Satin Paint
Satin paint provides aluminum siding with a colorful sheen. This relatively glossy coating makes satin finishes much more resistant to stains and far easier to clean. Satin paint is also much more resistant to moisture and won't harbor mildew and mold outbreaks as well as flat paint. Satin paint does tend to accentuate minor surface flaws; however, because aluminum siding is so durable, it tends to have few flaws. If the siding is marred with subtle dents, satin paint may make these stand out more.
Colors
Bright colors of flat paint tend to fade when exposed to consistent ultraviolet light. Dark colors tend to be more resilient. Satin paint will retain its original color much longer than flat paint regardless of the shade. Consider these factors when selecting a paint for your aluminum siding, or you may end up disappointed in the long-term results.
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