Yes, vinyl fences can be painted, but painting vinyl requires some special considerations compared to painting wood fences. The main challenge is that paint does not adhere to vinyl as well long-term since vinyl is a non-porous material lacking the natural grains and absorptive qualities of wood. However, using the right prep work and paint formulated specifically for vinyl can allow vinyl fences to be painted and maintain their newly colored look.
Vinyl fences are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. While vinyl itself comes in various color options, sometimes you may want to paint or change the color of your existing vinyl fencing. With proper preparation and using the right type of paint, it is possible to paint vinyl fences successfully.
Key factors for painting vinyl fences successfully:
- Thoroughly clean and prep the vinyl surface – Cleaning with soap and water, light sanding, and using adhesion-promoting primer allow paint to bond better.
- Use acrylic latex or epoxy paint designed for vinyl – Look for paints specifically engineered to flex and adhere to non-porous plastics and vinyl.
- Apply primer before painting – A quality primer enhances paint adhesion and prevents peeling or chipping.
- Use multiple coats – Applying at least 2 coats provides more complete coverage and protection on vinyl.
- Allow proper drying time between coats – Following the manufacturer’s directions for dry time allows each coat to fully adhere before adding another.
- Maintain the paint over time – Periodic touching up and repainting helps keep the paint looking fresh on vinyl longer.
With the right preparation and paint selection, vinyl fences can develop a long-lasting colored finish through painting. The paint may need more frequent maintenance compared to wood or metal, but still lasts for years with proper application. Painting expands the design options for vinyl fencing.
Vinyl Fence Touch Up Paint
Over time, vinyl fences may get occasional nicks, scratches and damage spots. Using vinyl-specific touch up paint provides an easy fix to cover marks and keep your fence looking its best. Small touch up jobs allow vinyl fences to maintain their appearance without needing a full repaint.
When shopping for vinyl fence touch up paint, look for the following features:
- Formulated for vinyl and plastic – Vinyl-safe paint ensures proper adhesion and flexibility.
- Acrylic latex-based – Acrylic latex paints bond well and resist chipping or cracking as vinyl expands and contracts.
- Brush-in applicator – Built-in mini brushes allow for neat, targeted touch up application.
- Matching common vinyl fence colors – White, beige, brown and gray vinyl paint shades are readily available.
- Weather-resistant – Durability for exterior use without sun damage or fading.
- Fast-drying – Quickly dries to allow for multiple coats and speedy repairs.
Before applying touch up paint to vinyl, make sure to sand and clean the target surface to improve adhesion lightly. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dry time between coats. Touch up paint provides an easy DIY solution for keeping vinyl fences looking their best over many years.
How to Paint a Vinyl Fence
Painting a whole vinyl fence requires more preparation and painting steps compared to just quick touch up repairs. Here is a complete process for successfully painting vinyl fencing:
Supplies Needed
- Exterior acrylic latex paint formulated for vinyl
- Paint primer for vinyl
- Paintbrushes, rollers, or sprayer
- Paint trays
- Sandpaper or sanding sponge
- Tarp/drop cloths
- Rags, paint thinner, cleaning supplies
Prep Steps
- Clean the fence using a pressure washer or by scrubbing with soapy water to remove dirt, mildew and chalky areas. Rinse thoroughly.
- Allow the fence to fully dry for at least 24 hours after cleaning.
- Lightly sand the vinyl fence with fine sandpaper to scuff up the surface. This helps the paint adhere better.
- Wipe away any dust from sanding using a clean, dry rag.
- Fill any small cracks or holes using exterior vinyl caulk. Allow caulk to cure fully.
- Tape off or cover any areas you don’t want painted. Place tarps below the fence.
- Follow the primer instructions for proper primer application and drying time before painting.
Painting
- Apply a generous coat of high quality vinyl primer to the entire fence using a brush, roller or sprayer.
- Allow primer to dry per manufacturer’s directions.
- Paint the first coat of latex vinyl paint in your desired color. Apply in thin, even coats watching for drips.
- Let the first coat dry completely before adding a second finish coat for full coverage.
- For extra protection, a third coat of vinyl paint can be applied after drying.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight or if rain is predicted.
- Allow fresh paint to cure for 2-3 days before touching or cleaning.
Properly prepping the vinyl fence and using compatible vinyl paint allows for long-lasting color results. Maintain the painted fence by reapplying fresh coats as needed over time.
Behr Vinyl Fence Paint
A top brand option for painting vinyl fences is Behr exterior Barn and Fence paint designed for vinyl and wood substrates. Behr vinyl fence paint delivers vibrant, lasting color paired with the adhesion and protection vinyl requires.
Features:
- 100% acrylic latex formula
- Self-priming paint + primer
- Low VOC water-based paint
- Resists fading, cracking, peeling
- Applies easily by brush, roller or sprayer
Benefits:
- Strong adhesion to vinyl and wood
- Thick, flexible coating
- Provides mildew resistance
- Soap and water cleanup
- Long-lasting fade and wear protection
Application Tips:
- No need to prime if using self-priming Behr vinyl paint
- Still prep fence by cleaning and light sanding
- Can apply with brush, roller or airless sprayer
- Maintain with new coats every 4-8 years
Behr vinyl fence paint, available exclusively at Home Depot, delivers excellent coverage and protection when painting vinyl fencing. Reviewers praise the durability and color-fast results.
Best Spray Paint for Vinyl Fences
For smaller vinyl fence painting projects, spray paint in a can provides an easy alternative to brush painting. Spraying the fence with paint allows you to build up protective color coverage quickly. Look for spray paint engineered specifically for vinyl and plastic when choosing the best spray paint for vinyl fences.
Top Vinyl Fence Spray Paint Picks
Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover
- Acrylic formula bonds to plastic
- Available in popular fence colors
- Control nozzle reduces overspray
- Dries to touch in 20 minutes
Krylon Fusion All-In-One
- Bonding primer + paint in one can
- Flexible acrylic coating
- Includes comfort spray tip
- Dries fast and resists chipping
Dupli-Color Vinyl & Plastic Paint
- Ideal for outdoor vinyl surfaces
- Perfect match colors for best touch up
- Premium automotive-grade acrylic enamel
- Provides maximum adhesion and durability
Rust-Oleum Specialty Vinyl Paint
- Made specifically for vinyl, PVC and resin
- Acrylic lacquer coating resists fading
- Use on outdoor furniture, shutters, fencing
- Matte, satin, gloss and metallic finishes
For best results when spray painting vinyl fences, make sure to prep the surface and use light coats from proper spray can distance. Spray fence paint offers fast color application.
Best Paint for Vinyl Fences
When researching top paint options for vinyl fencing, look for exterior grade acrylic latex or epoxy paints specifically engineered to bond and flex on vinyl’s non-porous surface. Here are some of the best paint brands for vinyl fences:
- Rust-Oleum RockSolid Vinyl Fence Paint – Epoxy-based acrylic formula adheres tightly to vinyl. Available in popular fence colors including white, beige and brown. Provides fade and crack resistance.
- KILZ Vinyl SureGrip Paint – 100% acrylic latex paint contains adhesion promoters for long-lasting grip on vinyl siding and fences. Soap and water cleanup. 10-year warranty against peeling and chipping.
- Valspar Duramax Exterior Acrylic Latex – Formulated especially for vinyl, plastic and other non-porous surfaces. The resin technology provides maximum adhesion, durability and color retention on vinyl fences.
- Behr Premium Plus Vinyl Fence Paint – 100% acrylic latex paint + primer designed for exterior vertical surfaces like vinyl fencing. Provides mildew and fade resistance.
- Rust-Oleum Specialty Vinyl Paint – Water-based acrylic formula dries fast and lasts long on vinyl fences. Available in gloss, satin, matte and metallic finishes. Provides excellent fade and chip resistance.
- Kilz Adhesion Interior/Exterior Latex Primer – Great water-based primer for vinyl fences to maximize paint adhesion. Creates a uniform surface for painting. Recommended for use under latex topcoats.
- INSL-X Cabinet Coat Acrylic Urethane – An automotive-grade acrylic urethane enamel made for painting vinyl, plastic and metal. Self-priming coating provides superior adhesion and a durable, scratch-resistant finish.
- Dupli-Color Vinyl & Plastic Paint – Ideal for painting outdoor vinyl fences, shutters, gutters and more. Acrylic enamel formula provides lasting color in exact vinyl-safe matched shades. Protects against fading, chipping, and cracking.
Tips for Choosing the Best Paint for Vinyl Fences
- Select 100% acrylic latex or acrylic urethane/enamel paint
- Look for vinyl-specific paint with adhesion promoters
- Ensure exterior-grade durability and fade resistance
- Match lighter paint colors to avoid heat warping
- Consider epoxy-modified paint for maximum adhesion
- Choose semi-gloss or satin sheen for vinyl fence finishes
Using the proper vinyl-compatible paint allows vinyl fences to take on virtually any color while maintaining a protective and attractive finish for years.
Epoxy-Based Paint for Vinyl Fences
For superior paint adhesion and durability on vinyl fences, consider using an epoxy-based acrylic paint. The epoxy additives help the paint better grip and flex on vinyl’s non-porous surface compared to standard latex paints.
Benefits of Epoxy Paint for Vinyl Fences
- Creates a tight bonding seal to vinyl’s slick surface
- Added flexibility prevents cracking or peeling as fence moves
- More abrasion and fade resistant than basic latex paint
- Typically contains mildewcides for extra exterior protection
- Provides excellent long-term adhesion even after years outside
Prepping Vinyl Fences for Epoxy Paint
- Clean thoroughly with degreasing agent like TSP substitute
- Sand lightly to rough up surface and improve adhesion
- Spot repair any nicks, holes, flaking areas
- Apply quality epoxy primer before painting
Applying Epoxy Paint to Vinyl Fences
- Use brush, roller or sprayer for full, even coverage
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats
- Minimum of 2-3 paint coats recommended for best coverage
- Higher sheens like satin or semi-gloss work well
Epoxy-fortified paints bond tenaciously to vinyl fences while adding vibrant color. With proper prep and application, an epoxy paint job provides long-lasting beauty and protection.
Conclusion
Painting vinyl fencing expands design possibilities with the ability to change colors when desired easily. While vinyl lacks the natural porous properties that allow paints to grip wood, using the proper prep work, paints engineered for vinyl, and application techniques can allow vinyl fences to be painted successfully. Be sure to clean and lightly sand vinyl fences prior to painting. Specialty vinyl paints like quality exterior acrylic latex or epoxy-based formulas are recommended for best adhesion and durability. Apply at least 2-3 coats of vinyl paint for ample coverage and a protective finish. With the right products and methods, vinyl fences can take on bold, vibrant color while maintaining a durable and long-lasting painted finish.
