Can you paint over old wood siding?

Painting the exterior of your home can give it a fresh new look and protect the siding from weather damage. However, if your home has old wood siding, you may be wondering if you can simply paint over it or if more extensive prep work is required first. There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether you can paint over old wood siding.

What type of wood siding do you have?

There are several different types of wood siding including clapboard, shiplap, tongue and groove, and board and batten. The type of wood also matters, with woods like cedar and redwood being more resistant to rot and decay than other types. Here’s a quick overview of some common wood sidings:

Clapboard

Clapboard siding is made of horizontal boards that overlap one another. It is one of the most common types of wood siding. Clapboard is relatively easy to paint, especially if the boards are still in good condition. If the paint buildup is minimal, you can probably paint over it.

Shiplap

Shiplap siding has horizontal boards that don’t overlap but instead have a slight groove between them. This type of siding can also be painted over as long as the boards are still in good shape. Look out for any warped, cracked or damaged boards that need replacement.

Tongue and Groove

Tongue and groove siding consists of boards with a protruding “tongue” on one end and a groove on the other for the boards to fit snugly together. This type of siding can collect more paint in the grooves over time. You’ll need to thoroughly scrape and clean out the grooves before repainting.

Board and Batten

Board and batten siding has vertical boards installed over battens or strips of wood. This type of siding can also be painted but is more prone to moisture issues since water can seep in between the boards. Look for any loose, warped or damaged boards.

How much existing paint is already on the siding?

When repainting wood siding, in general the fewer layers of old paint, the better. Multiple layers of paint buildup can cause the siding to crack, peel, and warp over time. Here’s a guide on when you can paint over existing paint:

• 1-2 layers – Painting over should be fine if the paint is still in good condition.
• 3-5 layers – Consider stripping some of the paint before repainting.
• 5+ layers – Paint likely needs to be stripped for the new paint to adhere properly.

If there are areas where paint is heavily chipped or peeling, you’ll need to remove the existing paint before repainting. Use a paint scraper, heat gun, chemical stripper, or power washer to remove areas of failing paint.

What is the condition of the existing wood siding?

Even if your home doesn’t have too many layers of old paint, the condition of the underlying wood still needs to be assessed. Here are some things to look for:

• Warping or buckling boards – Boards in poor condition will need replacing before repainting.
• Rot or wood damage – Any rotted areas will need to be repaired and sealed.
• Cracks or holes – Small cracks and holes can be filled with caulk or wood filler before painting.
• Moisture damage – Look for any dark or discolored areas that indicate moisture issues.

If more than 20% of your wood siding is damaged, it may be more cost effective to have the siding replaced with new boards or a different siding material rather than doing extensive repairs before repainting.

Prepping and Priming Old Wood Siding for Paint

Once you’ve determined that your wood siding is in suitable condition for repainting, proper prep work and priming are key to ensure the new paint adheres. Follow these tips:

• Repair any minor cracks, holes, or rotted areas.
• Replace any boards that are badly warped, split, or damaged.
• Wash the siding with an all-purpose cleaner and rinse well.
• Sand areas of paint that are peeling or chipping.
• Scuff sand glossy paint with 80-100 grit sandpaper.
• Caulk around windows, doors, and trim if needed.
• Prime all bare wood with an exterior wood primer.
• Spot prime any existing painted areas as needed.

Priming ensures the new paint bonds well. An oil-based primer or dedicated exterior wood primer provides the best protection. Make sure to let the primer dry fully before painting.

Choosing the Right Exterior Paint

The type of paint you use to repaint wood siding also matters. Consider these factors:

• Latex or oil-based/alkyd paint – Latex paints are more common today and easier to apply and clean up. Oil-based paints provide superior adhesion and are longer-lasting.
• Gloss level – For siding, opt for paints with satin, eggshell, or low-luster gloss levels which can help hide imperfections.
• Quality tier – Premium or super premium paints last longer. Budget paints require more frequent repainting.
• Color – Darker colors absorb more heat which can damage siding over time. Stick to lighter or medium tones.

Talk to your local paint store for the best product recommendations for your particular siding type and climate.

Application Tips for Painting Wood Siding

Follow these best practices when applying the new paint:

• Paint in dry weather when temperatures are above 50°F.
• Use high quality brushes and rollers suited for exterior painting.
• Apply paint generously in an even coat and maintain a wet edge.
• Work from the top down and do overlapping strokes.
• Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another.
• Seal any unfinished edges, joints, or exposed cut ends.
• Apply 2-3 coats for best protection and durability.

Take your time to do the job right – properly prepped and painted wood siding should last for many years before needing to be redone.

Maintenance Tips for Painted Wood Siding

Once your home’s wood siding has a fresh coat of paint, follow these tips to keep it looking its best:

• Inspect the paint every year and touch up as needed.
• Clean the siding with mild soap and water annually.
• Reapply caulk if any cracks appear around joints or openings.
• Watch for any signs of moisture damage behind the siding.
• Plan to repaint every 5-8 years depending on your climate.

Addressing minor issues quickly can prevent more costly siding repairs down the road. With proper prep and maintenance, painted wood siding should provide many years of durable protection and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Painting over wood siding is often a viable option if the existing boards are still in good shape without too many layers of old paint. With the right prep work, primer, and paint, you can give your home’s exterior wood siding a fresh new look while protecting it from the elements. Pay attention to the condition of the underlying boards, use high quality primer and paint suited for exterior use, and allow adequate drying time between coats. Maintain the siding properly once painted, and your home can continue benefiting from durable, attractive wood siding for years to come.