Aluminum Siding Painting in Massachusetts: Restore vs Replace

Aluminum siding was a popular choice for Massachusetts homes from the 1940s through the 1970s. If your aluminum siding is looking faded, chalky, or dated, you're facing a choice: paint it or replace it entirely. This guide will help you make the smart decision.

Understanding Aluminum Siding

Why Aluminum Was Popular

Original Benefits:

• Low maintenance promise


• Durable material


• Fire resistant


• Pest resistant


• Long lifespan

Common Problems Over Time

Issues You May See:

• Fading from UV exposure


• Chalking (powdery residue)


• Color looking dated


• Dents and dings


• Oxidation


• Peeling existing paint

The Case for Painting

Painting Advantages

Cost Benefits:

• 70-80% less than replacement


• Preserves existing material


• Extends life 10-15+ years


• Immediate transformation

Practical Benefits:

• Complete color change possible


• Faster than replacement


• Less disruptive


• Environmentally responsible

When Painting Makes Sense

Paint Your Siding If:

• Structure is sound (no rot, major dents)


• Siding is firmly attached


• No major storm damage


• You want to change colors


• Budget is a concern


• Environmental sustainability matters

Painting Cost Analysis

Home SizePainting CostTime to Complete

1,000 sq ft$2,500-4,0003-5 days
1,500 sq ft$3,500-5,5004-6 days
2,000 sq ft$4,500-7,0005-8 days
2,500 sq ft$5,500-8,5006-10 days

The Case for Replacement

Replacement Advantages

Long-Term Benefits:

• New warranty


• Modern materials (vinyl, fiber cement)


• Energy efficiency improvements


• Updated appearance


• Increased insulation options

When Replacement Makes Sense

Replace Your Siding If:

• Severe structural damage


• Major denting throughout


• Underlying sheathing problems


• Planning major renovation


• Want different material entirely


• Home value justifies investment

Replacement Cost Analysis

Home SizeVinyl ReplacementFiber Cement

1,000 sq ft$8,000-15,000$12,000-20,000
1,500 sq ft$12,000-22,000$18,000-30,000
2,000 sq ft$16,000-30,000$24,000-40,000
2,500 sq ft$20,000-38,000$30,000-50,000

Side-by-Side Comparison

Cost and Value

FactorPaintingReplacement

Initial Cost$4,000-8,000$15,000-40,000
Lifespan10-15 years20-40 years
ROI50-75%70-80%
Time1 week1-3 weeks
DisruptionLowHigh
Color OptionsUnlimitedLimited

Practical Considerations

FactorPaintingReplacement

Weather sensitivityNeeds 50°F+Can install cooler
CustomizationFull color choicePredefined colors
MaintenanceMay need touch-upsLow maintenance
RepairEasyMatch can be hard
Home sale impactImprovedBetter

The Aluminum Siding Painting Process

Proper Preparation

Critical Steps:
1. Thorough power washing
2. Treat mildew and oxidation
3. Remove chalky residue
4. Repair dents and damage
5. Prime bare or damaged areas

Cleaning and Prep

Surface Preparation:

• Power wash with TSP solution


• Remove all chalk and oxidation


• Allow full drying (24-48 hours)


• Caulk gaps and joints


• Prime as needed

Paint Selection

Best Paints for Aluminum:
ProductFeaturesBest For

Sherwin-Williams DurationExcellent adhesionAll conditions
Benjamin Moore Aura ExteriorSuperior fade resistanceHarsh exposure
PPG Speedhide ExteriorGood valueBudget projects

Required Features:

• Designed for metal surfaces


• Excellent adhesion


• UV resistant


• Flexible (handles expansion)


• Fade resistant

Application Method

Professional Process:
1. Apply bonding primer (if needed)
2. First coat with backbrushing
3. Allow proper dry time
4. Second coat for durability
5. Touch-up inspection

Color Options When Painting

Popular Choices in Massachusetts

Classic Options:

• White/Off-White (brightening, clean)


• Gray (modern, sophisticated)


• Navy Blue (bold, traditional)


• Sage Green (nature, updated)

Trending Colors:

• Charcoal/Dark Gray


• Soft Blue-Greens


• Warm Whites


• Taupe/Greige

Color Considerations

When Choosing:

• Trim and accent coordination


• Roof color compatibility


• Neighborhood aesthetic


• HOA restrictions (if any)


• Personal preference vs. resale

Massachusetts Weather Considerations

Climate Impact on Decision

Our Weather Means:

• UV exposure fades siding


• Freeze-thaw affects loose siding


• Salt air (coastal) accelerates wear


• Quality paint essential for longevity

Regional Factors

LocationSpecial Considerations

CoastalSalt-resistant paint critical
InlandStandard considerations
UrbanPollution can affect finish

Long-Term Maintenance

After Painting

To Maximize Longevity:

• Annual cleaning (gentle wash)


• Inspect for damage/peeling


• Touch up promptly


• Keep vegetation trimmed


• Address issues early

Expected Timeline

Painting Maintenance:
YearActivity

1-5Enjoy, annual cleaning
5-7Touch-up if needed
7-10Assess condition
10-15Consider repainting

Making Your Decision

Decision Framework

Choose Painting If:

• [ ] Siding is structurally sound


• [ ] Budget under $10,000


• [ ] Happy with aluminum's performance


• [ ] Want quick transformation


• [ ] Environmental concern


• [ ] Plan to stay 5-10+ years

Choose Replacement If:

• [ ] Siding is damaged throughout


• [ ] Want different material


• [ ] Budget allows $15,000+


• [ ] Planning major renovation


• [ ] Want modern insulation


• [ ] 20+ year timeline important

Questions to Ask Yourself

1. What's my realistic budget?
2. How long will I own this home?
3. Is the siding structurally sound?
4. Am I satisfied with aluminum as a material?
5. What's my timeline for the project?

Getting Professional Input

What We Evaluate

During Assessment:

• Overall siding condition


• Attachment security


• Underlying structure


• Previous paint/coating


• Specific problem areas

Our Honest Recommendation:
We'll tell you if painting is the right choice for YOUR home, or if replacement makes more sense.

Ready for Your Assessment?

At JH Painting Services, we specialize in aluminum siding painting and can help you decide the best path forward for your Massachusetts home. Our free assessment includes honest recommendations based on your siding's actual condition.

Call (508) 690-8886 for your free aluminum siding assessment!