Painting Aluminum Siding On Mobile Homes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Painting the aluminium siding on your mobile home can be a great way to upgrade its appearance and add an extra layer of protection. Aluminium siding has been used on mobile homes for over 60 years due to its affordability, lightweight, and durability. Before painting, it is important to thoroughly clean the exterior walls of your mobile home to ensure the paint adheres properly and does not blister or peel over time. This can be done using power washers, or a combination of power washing and scrubbing with vinegar to etch and give tooth to the metal. Once cleaned, you can use a paint sprayer, roller, or brush to apply the paint. It is recommended to use a good quality acrylic paint, as aluminium and oil do not mix well. If using exterior latex paint, it is recommended to use a metal primer with rust inhibitors.

How to paint a mobile home with aluminum siding

Preparation: wash, clean, sand, and prime the siding

Before painting aluminium siding on a mobile home, it is important to prepare the surface by washing, cleaning, sanding, and priming it. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and results in a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Firstly, thoroughly wash the siding to remove any dirt, grime, and chalking. Power washers are commonly used for this step, and some sources recommend an additional wash with pure vinegar to "etch" and give "tooth" to the metal. It is crucial to ensure that all chalking is removed, as it can cause paint blistering and peeling over time. If chalking is a significant issue, products like E-B, Zinsser Peel Stop, or XIM Peel Bond can be used to bond any residue before painting.

After washing, the siding should be cleaned and dried. This step involves scrubbing the surface with a suitable cleaner, such as TSP (trisodium phosphate), and then rinsing it thoroughly with water. Make sure to follow the safety instructions when using products like TSP, and wear protective gear. Once cleaned, allow the siding to dry completely overnight.

The next step is sanding. Sanding creates a rough surface that enhances paint adhesion. Use appropriate sandpaper or sanding tools to gently sand the siding, ensuring you cover all the areas to be painted. Remember to wear a mask and safety goggles during this process to avoid inhaling dust or debris.

Finally, priming the siding is essential to ensure the paint adheres well and the colour stays true. There are different opinions on whether to use a primer or not, but it is generally recommended, especially if you want a long-lasting finish. Choose a primer suitable for metal siding, such as Zinsser 123 water-based primer or Behr metal primer, which has rust preventatives and provides a smooth undercoat. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding to the painting stage.

Choose the right paint: acrylic, not oil-based

When it comes to painting the aluminium siding of your mobile home, it is crucial to choose the right type of paint. Acrylic paint is highly recommended for this purpose, while oil-based paint should be avoided.

Aluminium and oil do not mix well together. Oil-based paint may cause issues such as bubbling and peeling, compromising the overall appearance and longevity of the paint job. Therefore, opting for acrylic paint is a much safer and more effective choice.

Acrylic paint, specifically 100% acrylic latex paint, adheres well to aluminium siding and provides a durable and flexible finish. It is also available in a wide range of colours and sheens, including semi-gloss and satin, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic for your mobile home.

If you choose to use acrylic paint, it is important to properly prepare the surface before painting. This includes thoroughly cleaning the aluminium siding to remove any dirt, grime, or chalk residue. Power washing is often recommended for effective cleaning, and some also suggest an additional wash with pure vinegar to "etch" and provide a suitable surface for the paint to adhere to.

Additionally, when using acrylic paint, consider using a primer designed for metal surfaces, such as Zinsser 123 or Behr Metal Primer, to ensure better adhesion and a smoother finish. However, some sources mention that a primer may not be necessary if you use 100% acrylic paint and properly prepare the surface through cleaning and sanding.

Painting methods: brush, roller, or spray

Painting a mobile home with aluminium siding is a cost-effective way to refresh your home's look. Before painting, it is important to thoroughly clean the siding and address any issues like damage, mildew, or chalking.

There are several methods to paint aluminium siding on a mobile home. You can use a standard paintbrush, a roller, or spray paint. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on factors such as time, effort, and cost.

Painting with a brush and roller can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, especially for larger areas. However, it allows for precise paint application and can be quite effective for smaller mobile homes. This method typically takes about a week or less to complete and costs around $300 for the paint and supplies. If you are unable to do the job yourself, you can hire a local handyman or painting company, or enlist the help of family and friends.

Spray painting is a faster and more inexpensive option, typically costing around \$100 for materials. It usually takes about 2 to 3 days to complete. However, it requires a significant amount of paint—around 30 to 40 cans for a cohesive colour blend. It is important to order the spray paint cans ahead of time to ensure you have the same colour lot numbers. Spray painting is also dependent on good weather conditions, as it should not be done in windy, very cold, or very hot weather.

Some people choose to use a combination of methods. For example, one person mentioned using a roller and a brush to paint their mobile home, with the roller for larger areas and the brush for the underside of each slat.

Paint application: ensure smooth, even coats

Painting aluminium siding on a mobile home is a great way to upgrade its appearance and add a protective layer. To achieve a smooth and even finish, it is important to follow these steps for paint application:

Firstly, ensure that the surface is clean and dry. Power washing is an effective method to remove dirt, grime, and chalking. For metal siding, it is recommended to follow up with a power wash using pure vinegar. This process "etches" and gives "tooth" to the metal, providing a better surface for the paint to adhere to.

Once the surface is prepared, it's time to prime. Priming is not always necessary, especially if you are using 100% acrylic paint. However, if you are using exterior latex paint, a primer is highly recommended. Metal primers, such as Behr metal primer, Zinsser 123 water-based primer, or XIM Peel Bond, can provide a smooth undercoat and help prevent rust.

After priming, it's time to apply the paint. For aluminium siding, it is best to use acrylic paint rather than oil-based paint. Acrylic paint is flexible and suitable for exterior use. You can apply the paint with a roller, brush, or spray. If using a roller or brush, enlist the help of others as it can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. Spray painting is a faster and cheaper option, but it may require more cans of paint.

When using a spray, ensure the can is held 15-25 inches from the surface and make long, smooth strokes that barely overlap. Achieving a consistent flow will help prevent paint running and ensure even coverage. Whether using a spray or a roller/brush, always ensure you have enough paint of the same colour lot to complete the job and avoid colour inconsistencies.

Finally, allow the paint to dry thoroughly between coats. Depending on the paint type, you may need to apply two or more coats for full coverage and a smooth finish. Following these steps will help ensure a professional-looking paint job with smooth and even coats.

Drying time: leave overnight between coats

When painting aluminium siding on a mobile home, it is important to allow sufficient drying time between coats. While the exact drying time can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the type of paint used, it is generally recommended to leave the paint to dry overnight before applying the next coat.

Leaving the paint to dry overnight ensures that it has adequate time to cure and harden properly. This is crucial for achieving a durable and long-lasting finish. Applying the next coat too soon can result in smudging or uneven coverage, compromising the overall quality and appearance of the paint job.

During the drying process, it is important to protect the painted surface from any potential contaminants. This includes dust, debris, or insects that may land on the wet paint and create imperfections. If possible, cover the painted area with a protective tarp or netting to shield it from these elements.

Additionally, proper ventilation is essential during the drying process. Ensure that the area is well-ventilated by opening windows or doors, or using fans to promote airflow. This will help the paint dry faster and reduce the risk of any strong paint fumes.

By allowing the paint to dry overnight and following these considerations, you can ensure that each coat of paint is properly adhered and cured, resulting in a smooth and professional finish for your mobile home.

Frequently asked questions