Painting Your Aluminum Siding Without Breaking the Bank
Is your aluminum siding looking a little worn, and you’re wondering how much it’ll cost to bring it back to life?
Or maybe you’re thinking about whether you should hire a professional or take on the project yourself.
If you’re in Ann Arbor and contemplating repainting your home’s aluminum siding, this guide will break down the costs, factors that affect pricing, and how to decide between DIY or hiring a pro.
We’ll dive into everything you need to know, from cost per square foot to paint types and labor.
If you’re ready to give your home a fresh new look, fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to schedule your free estimate.
Otherwise, keep reading to find out what exterior painting steps to take and how much you’ll need to invest to get that fresh, lasting look for your home.
How Much Does It Cost to Paint Aluminum Siding?
One of the biggest questions Ann Arbor homeowners have when considering repainting their aluminum siding is how much it will cost.
The cost to paint aluminum siding depends on several factors, such as the size of your home, the condition of the siding, and whether you choose to hire a professional painting company.
Here, we’ll break down the cost to paint your home’s exterior so you know what to expect.
General Cost Range
For a typical 2,500-square-foot home, painting aluminum siding can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $20,000.
On average, most homeowners will spend about $16,000 to complete the project.
Larger homes (4,500 square feet or more) or those with more complex layouts may push the total higher, potentially up to $40,000 if premium materials and extensive prep work are required.
- Normal Range: $12,000 to $20,000 for a 1,200 sq. ft. Ranch Style Home
- Average Cost: ~$12,000 to $20,000 for a 2,500 sq. ft. home
- High-End Cost: Up to $40,000 for larger homes (4,500 sq. ft.+) or premium materials
Cost Per Square Foot
The cost per square foot is another way to estimate how much you’ll pay to paint aluminum siding.
For Ann Arbor homes, the price generally ranges from $5.00 to $10.00 per square foot, with lower prices reflecting simpler jobs and higher prices reflecting older, damaged siding that requires more prep work.
- Cost per Square Foot: ~$5.00 to ~$10.00
- Factors: Size of the house, condition of the aluminum, and job complexity
Follow the link to learn more about the cost of exterior painting in Ann Arbor.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Painting Aluminum Siding
The total cost to paint aluminum siding in Ann Arbor can vary widely, and several key factors come into play.
Understanding these will help you better estimate the overall expense and plan accordingly for your project.
The size and complexity of your home, as well as the condition of the aluminum siding, will have the most impact on pricing.
Size and Complexity of the Home
The bigger your home, the more siding there is to cover, which increases both the materials and labor required.
In addition, homes with multiple stories or intricate architectural details, such as trim or shutters, will increase the cost of the paint job.
- Home Size: Larger homes require more paint and labor.
- Complexity: Multi-story homes may need extension ladders or scaffolding, adding to the labor costs.
- Additional Details: Painting intricate features like doors, shutters, or detailed siding trim increases the time and effort involved.
Condition of the Aluminum Siding
If your aluminum siding is in rough condition—showing signs of oxidation or peeling—extra prep work will be required before painting aluminum siding.
This includes removing loose paint, power washing, and possibly sanding. The more worn the siding, the more labor-intensive and costly the project becomes.
- Prep Work: Power washing and removing loose paint to ensure the new paint adheres properly.
- Oxidation: Older aluminum siding may need additional care, including sanding and priming, to achieve a smooth, long-lasting paint job.
By considering these factors, you’ll get a clearer picture of the cost to paint aluminum siding on your home’s exterior, and better prepare for any additional costs that may arise.
Paint and Material Costs
The type and quality of paint and primer you choose will play a significant role in the overall costs of painting aluminum siding.
Investing in the right materials ensures a durable and lasting finish, which is especially important for Ann Arbor homes facing various weather conditions.
Below, we break down the costs and recommendations for the best materials for your project.
Paint and Primer
When painting aluminum siding, you’ll need both a high-quality primer and durable paint to get a smooth, long-lasting finish.
The cost of primer and paint can vary depending on the type and brand you choose.
- Average Paint Cost: $35 to $100+ per gallon, depending on the brand and type. High-quality paints from reputable manufacturers such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore.
- Primer Costs: Primer ranges from $20 to $50 per gallon.
- Total Paint Needed: For a standard 2,500-square-foot home, you’ll need about 10 gallons of paint.
Type of Paint
The type of paint you use can also impact the cost and the longevity of the paint job.
For aluminum siding, the most common options are oil-based paints and acrylic latex paints.
- Oil-Based Paint: Known for its durability and adhesion to bare aluminum, this is ideal for aluminum siding painting. It costs more, but it’s worth the investment for its long-lasting paint job.
- Acrylic Latex Paint: Easier to work with and more eco-friendly. It’s a great option for DIY painters and is widely available at home improvement stores.
By choosing the right paint and primer, you can ensure a cost-effective and beautiful finish that will last for years on your home’s exterior.
Follow the link to discover the best exterior house paints for different siding types.
Labor and Professional Costs
One of the biggest expenses when painting aluminum siding is labor, especially if you’re hiring professional painters.
Labor costs can vary depending on the complexity of the job, the size of your house, and the experience level of the exterior painters.
Let’s break down how labor costs impact the total cost to paint aluminum siding in Ann Arbor.
Labor Costs
The labor involved in aluminum siding painting can range significantly.
Depending on the size of your home and the level of prep needed, the cost of labor can be a significant factor in your overall expenses.
Professional painters typically charge by the project, which can vary widely depending on the painter’s experience and reputation.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While DIY painting might seem like a cost-effective option, the level of effort required to prep and paint aluminum siding shouldn’t be underestimated.
Professional painters not only have the experience to deliver a high-quality finish, but they also have access to high-quality paints and the proper equipment, such as paint sprayers and extension ladders.
- DIY Cost: Typically around $800 to $2,000 for paint, primer, and basic supplies for a 2,500-square-foot home. Follow the link to discover how to paint aluminum siding.
- Hiring a Pro: Although more expensive, professional services can ensure a long-lasting paint job with fewer touch-ups required down the line.
Choosing between DIY and hiring a professional ultimately depends on your budget, time, and the results you want to achieve for your home’s curb appeal.
Additional Factors Impacting the Total Cost
Several additional factors can impact the overall cost of painting aluminum siding in Ann Arbor.
Beyond the basic materials and labor, other elements such as lead testing, painting details like trim and shutters, and the age of your home can increase your expenses.
Being aware of these costs involved helps ensure there are no surprises during your project.
Lead Paint Testing and Abatement
Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint, and by law, any exterior painters working on your house will need to test for lead.
If lead is detected, proper removal and abatement processes are required, which can increase the total cost of your paint job.
- Lead Testing: Required for homes built before 1978, test costs average around $300.
- Lead Paint Removal: If lead is found, abatement will add to the cost. The cost of this service will vary widely based on the amount of lead paint present and the specifics of the home.
Trim, Shutters, and Extra Features
Painting additional features such as trim, doors, and shutters can add to the costs.
These details often require more precision and time from the exterior painters, which will be reflected in the price.
- Trim and Shutters: Expect to pay a little extra for painting these features, especially if they are particularly complex.
- Complex Features: Porches, columns, or decorative elements will also add to the costs involved in the project.
Understanding these factors will help you better plan the total cost of painting aluminum siding and avoid unexpected expenses.
How Long Does a Paint Job Last on Aluminum Siding?
When painting aluminum siding, one of the key concerns for Ann Arbor homeowners is how long the new paint job will last.
With proper preparation work and high-quality materials, a well-painted exterior can maintain its look and durability for years.
Let’s look at the longevity of aluminum siding and what you can do to extend the life of your new paint.
Longevity of a Properly Painted Job
On average, painting aluminum siding lasts between 10 and 15 years.
This can vary based on factors such as climate, the condition of the surface, and the quality of the paint used.
Regular maintenance like pressure washing and touch-ups can help your house maintain its appearance for longer.
- Average Lifespan: 10 to 15 years with proper care.
- Climate Impact: Harsh weather conditions may shorten this lifespan, especially if regular cleaning and maintenance aren’t performed.
Importance of Proper Surface Preparation
The most critical step in ensuring a long-lasting paint job is the right preparation work.
Before any exterior paint is applied, the aluminum siding must be thoroughly cleaned and primed.
Removing loose paint, cleaning off any chalky residue, and using a high-quality primer ensure that the new paint adheres properly.
- Prep Work: Power washing, scraping, and priming the siding will prevent peeling and chipping in the long run.
- Two Coats of Paint: Applying two coats of high-quality paint helps provide better coverage and durability.
By investing in proper preparation work and using high-quality materials, your aluminum siding painting project can stand the test of time, boosting your home’s curb appeal for years to come and making it easier to sell your house.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Which Is Better?
If you’re considering painting aluminum siding on your Ann Arbor home, you may wonder whether it’s worth tackling the project yourself or if hiring a professional is the better choice.
Each option has its pros and cons, and deciding between DIY and hiring professional painters comes down to cost, time, and the quality of results you want.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
While hiring a paint company can be more expensive upfront, it often results in a higher-quality finish that lasts longer.
Professionals have the experience and tools to ensure that the exterior of your home is prepped, primed, and painted correctly.
This is especially important when dealing with aluminum siding, as proper adhesion and coverage are crucial to achieving a long-lasting result.
- Experience and Expertise: Professionals know how to handle aluminum siding and ensure a durable, smooth finish.
- Proper Equipment: Paint sprayers, scaffolding, and other specialized tools make the job quicker and more efficient.
- Time-Saving: Hiring a professional can save you time and effort, especially for larger homes or complex jobs.
DIY Considerations
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, DIY may seem appealing.
However, it requires a significant amount of time and effort, especially for those unfamiliar with the process.
You’ll need to rent or buy the necessary equipment, such as a pressure washer and paint sprayer, and ensure that your surface is thoroughly prepped to avoid chipping or peeling.
- Cost Savings: DIY projects can save you on labor costs, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of paint prices, tools, and supplies.
- Effort: Painting your own exterior siding is a labor-intensive process that requires proper preparation and patience.
Ultimately, the choice between DIY and hiring a pro depends on your budget, time availability, and confidence in your painting skills.
Why Tribble Painting Company Is Your Best Choice for Painting Aluminum Siding
Now that you understand the factors that affect the cost to paint aluminum siding, you’re better prepared to make a smart decision for your home.
Whether you’re considering DIY or hiring a pro, it’s clear that proper preparation, high-quality materials, and attention to detail are essential for long-lasting results.
At Tribble Painting Company, we specialize in handling the unique challenges of exterior painting projects, ensuring your aluminum siding looks great and stands up to the elements for years to come.
Our team of experienced professionals takes the guesswork out of the process, delivering a smooth and durable finish every time.
