Painting Chalky Siding

Scrub off the chalk with a strong solution of water and spic and span or tsp detergent or a nonphosphate tsp alternative.

Painting chalky siding.

To test the dryness of your paint touch the siding with your finger in an inconspicuous area. If vertical paint up to down. Here s how to prepare the surface and choose your paint. Wipe the surface with the palm of your hand.

If lead is present contact a licensed lead abatement specialist. If the paint no longer feels tacky or sticky it s completely dried. There are several steps in dealing with a chalky surface to ensure a long lasting paint job. You might also like.

This is called chalking and essentially is the existing paint breaking down from the weather. This is very important because this is what actually removes the chalk before the primer is put on. As a rule of thumb paint takes two hours to dry. It is also important to use a cleaner when powerwashing so that it will actually help remove the chalk along with the pressure.

This ensures even coats and will prevent you from missing any spots. Some exterior paints such as those used on aluminum siding intentionally chalk for self cleaning. The first step is the surface must be power washed. This oxidation that occurs on aluminum siding results in the build up of a chalk like substance on the siding itself which can easily be seen by wiping your hand across the aluminum.

Rub siding with cloth to check for powdery paint pigment and mildew. You can paint it. If your siding is horizontal paint left to right. By the diy experts of the family handyman magazine.

Cover ground and nearby shrubs with drop cloths.