Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

July, 2003

Painting Aluminum Siding

Q. I wanted to paint existing aluminum siding, was planning to steam clean first. What paint do you recommend?

A. Your approach to steam clean is a good one however I would recommend that you power wash with a good detergent, maybe with a TSP (tri sodium phosphate) type. TSP may be unavailable in your area, it does contain phosphates, there are substitutes on the market. This will not only clean the surface, it will prepare the existing paint to be repainted. Most manufactures of house paint make a paint that will go over pre-painted aluminum siding, check with a reputable paint dealer in your area for specific recommendations .