Skip to Content

Can You Put Vinyl Siding Over Aluminum Siding? [Explained]

Renovating your house can be difficult. Especially if you’re working with the siding. And you often can get confused if putting vinyl siding over aluminum siding would be wise.

But that’s okay because we’re here to help clear your doubts.

Can you put vinyl siding over aluminum siding?

You can put vinyl siding over aluminum siding. However, it is recommended to not do so. Because it can lead to corrosion and build-up of rust. Moreover, it can completely spoil the siding. So, it’s better to either install a new vinyl siding. Or paint over the old aluminum siding. But as your last resort, you may put vinyl siding over aluminum siding.

But it doesn’t end here. To discover new dimensions of aluminum siding dive into our segment.

What Happens if You Put Vinyl Over Aluminum Siding?

Metals are prone to corrosion and rust. Aluminum is no exception. Especially when they are exposed to moisture and water. Thus, you should not put vinyl over aluminum siding.

Vinyl siding, when put over aluminum will trap water. This overtime will corrode through the siding and onto the frame.

Soon after you might notice:

  • wood-rotting
  • moth infestation 
  • peeled layers etc.

These will cost you a great deal in the future. As you’ll have to re-do a huge part of your house. Since the corrosion degraded the integrity of the framework.

Why is Painting Aluminum Siding an Alternative to Vinyl Siding?

Although aluminum has attractive qualities, they are susceptible to dents.

Therefore to cover those flaws, painting is a great option. And it is a fairly easy job and anyone with a steady head and brush can do it.

Why do people stick to repainting, when they can replace it? 

Painting can add extra life to the sidings as a protective layer. Moreover, can help prevent rust and corrosion.

Another reason why people stick to painting is the cost. Vinyl sidings are very expensive. The installation for a 1,500 sq. ft. home can range from $4,658 to $5,795. This, compared to a typical aluminum siding paint job, is pretty high.

Vinyl is less weather-resistant. Thus, it’s brittle and might crack in extreme weather. This can disrupt insulation. 

We can say that it depends on your preference. The vibe you’re going for your house.

How to Paint an Aluminum Siding?

Painting aluminum siding is a cheaper repair for dents. Or if you are doing this just for the viewing pleasure. You can paint! And don’t worry, you can learn as you follow along.

First, let’s look at the essentials:

  • Oil-Based Primer
  • Acrylic Exterior Paint
  • Synthetic Fiber Brushes
  • Lambs wool Paint Rollers
  • Ladder
  • Plastic Paint Buckets
  • Plastic Paint Sprays
  • Drop Cloths

Step 1:  Prepping the Siding

Let’s begin! The first step of this process is pretty basic. 

Start by scraping off any peel-off paint with a scraping tool. After that, make a solution with one part bleach and ten parts water. Remove any mildew with the solution.

If your siding is too dingy use a power washer.

Now comes the sand down part. For the first round, use 80 grit. Follow it up with a 220 grit.

Step 2: Apply the First Coat of Primer:

Moving on to the next. Using a paint roller apply an even coat. Make sure to apply in one direction only. This will help to maximize the drying time. Moreover, it’s efficient. 

This process will take only a few seconds per square foot. Do not hurry. Keep a steady hand and paint along.

Pro Tip: Start painting when the weather is mild. It’ll prevent rain, dust, and debris from ruining the finish.

Step 3: Apply the Second Coat of Primer 

After the first coat has completely dried off. Apply the second layer. Wait for about four hours for the first coat to dry.

Step 4: Paint the Aluminum Siding

Using a paintbrush, make long, even brush strokes. Work your way up- from top to bottom.

This will help to correct any drips, as you paint further. For the most uniform finish, paint in the same direction.

Pro Tip: Paint a full side at once. This will ensure a smooth even finish. And will prevent any visible lines.

Step 5: Paint a Second Coat

After that, we will have to wait a minimum of two hours before this step. 

Next, let’s start applying the second coat. Correct any visible flaws you notice as you paint.

For example, correct that bump that you accidentally made in the first coat. Gently sand away and apply the second layer.

Pro tip: Always purchase an extra gallon of paint for touch-ups or a coat.

Step 6: Examine your Work

Once you’re done with your work. Pat yourself on the back! You did it. 

Now that both the layers are well painted. Allow the paint to dry for a minimum of two hours.

Later, go back and spot paint and fix the imperfections if any.

Note: If you still see any aluminum finish through the paint. Consider applying one more coat.

How to Install Vinyl Siding Over Aluminum Siding

Stacking siding over siding is not considered wise. But if you still want to. Grab your tools, safety gear, and a snack too! Because it’s gonna be a fun process.

Here is the list of necessary tools for proper installation:

  • Spray nozzle
  • Power washer tank
  • Detergent 
  • Bristled brush 
  • Applicator pad
  • Foam roller
  • Fasteners
  • Hammer
  • Nails for Vinyl Siding
  • Small nail bar
  • A pair of pliers 

Step 1: Give the Aluminum Siding a Good Scrub 

From rain to dust to snow. Our siding has built up a lot. Mildew, dirt, water stains are to name a few.

We’ve established this eye soring of a layer. Let’s move on to the cleaning.

Start by putting on the safety gear- masks, glasses, and gloves. Precautions first!

Now, take your angled spray nozzle and set it to medium and rinse. Start from top to bottom. After that, take a detergent solution on your power washer and spray. Turn your setting to low for the dirt to really absorb the solution.

Pro Tip: Stand close to the house when doing this.

Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes before moving ahead.

Afterward, scrub the siding well and rinse thoroughly from top to end. But now, with high pressure and a wide spray nozzle. You’ll need to aim the sprayer at least a foot from the surface, facing downwards.

Lastly, let the siding dry.

Step 2: Make sure the Aluminum is Rust and Corrosion Proof

Like I’ve mentioned earlier. Metals are prone to corrosion and rust. Therefore before installing the vinyl you’ll need a corrosion-proof coat.

Everbrite Clear Protective Coating can be a very good option!

Apply an even coat with a bristle brush. Then, glide the coat on with an applicator pad. Next, with a foam sprayer set to high-density spray.

Another thing you can do is to paint. Do this before applying the coat. This again gives an extra protective layer.

And Voila, you’re done!

Step 3: Place the Vinyl Sidings

Here comes the exciting part. Stacking the vinyl. After you’ve prepped your aluminum.

Since both of these are nailed onto the backerboard. You’ll need to remove the aluminum siding.

Start by working out a loose joint at the top edge. Use a thin tool or wire to work the lap joint loose.  Then unzip the joint. 

After that, remove the fastener from the top. And, carefully work it out. Do not bend or crease the upper section. And continue working by placing a small block of wood underneath.

Mark the siding as you remove more siding. 

Remember to work slowly and carefully. As hastiness can damage the siding. Furthermore, it costs you an afternoon in the emergency!

Repeat until all the sidings are removed.

Note: Don’t bend the siding too much. When to try to get access to the fasteners holding the lower section

After that, measure and cut the sidings according to the aluminum ones. 

The installation process is pretty much the same as taking off. 

Make sure to keep a little space between the nails. As the vinyl siding might contract or expand due to the weather. 

At last! After a long day of work, you’ll have yourself a vinyl finish

Step 4: Inspect for Loose Ends!

This is a very crucial step in the installation process. The loose end can allow moisture and water. This can damage the coat. Hence causing corrosion and rust. 

Moreover, strong winds can rip off the loose siding. Hence, use fasteners to secure the loose ends. 

That’s all you have to do!

Basically, that’s how you install vinyl siding with these 4 simple steps. Follow these accordingly to have yourself a fully installed vinyl siding.

FAQs

Question: What type of siding lasts the longest?
Answer: Vinyl siding lasts the longest in comparison to other sidings. It has a life expectancy of 60-100 years with proper maintenance. Also, this siding takes no effort in cleaning.

Question: How long does exterior paint last on aluminum siding?
Answer: Well, the aluminum siding paint usually lasts five to ten years. It is fairly easy to paint. You can do it by yourself or through a professional. And it takes paint very well.

Question: Can you pressure wash the aluminum siding?
Answer: Nope. High pressure can damage the siding. Power washes even can be too harsh for some exterior siding. Therefore, it is best to clean it with a bucket of warm water and Spic and Span, 409. 

Bottom Line

I hope your burning question – “can you put vinyl siding over aluminum siding?” is answered.

If you face any difficulty performing any of the steps. Take help from a professional. Take proper precautions beforehand. Until next time, Goodbye!