Why Does Paint Get Chalky On Aluminum Siding

Chalky surfaces will cause the paint not to adhere correctly to the surface and will cause premature peeling.

Why does paint get chalky on aluminum siding. A dull chalky paint finish comes off when touched and makes a home s exterior paint job look dated. Chalking due to oxidation is the paint s natural response to sunlight. There are several steps in dealing with a chalky surface to ensure a long lasting paint. This phenomenon is known as chalking.

This is a natural process. If after two tries of hand scrubbing or power washing there is still chalk on the surface simply use a primer before repainting the aluminum siding. Why does chalking happen and what can you do about it. Before repainting an area with chalking paint it is necessary to remove all the chalk along with any dirt and dust on the paint surface.

When paint on outdoor surfaces ages it develops a light but noticeable buildup of powder. One of the hardest surfaces to prep is a aluminum or vinyl siding that is chalky. Paint that chalks is much less troublesome than paint that peels. 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.

This primer will cover up the chalk and allow the new paint to bond with the aluminum siding. The primer should be 100 percent acrylic and specifically manufactured for outdoor painting.