Does your home sport that classic, textured look of asbestos siding, but now it’s faded, stained, or just plain ugly? You want a fresh coat of paint to boost your curb appeal, but the word “asbestos” immediately raises red flags. Finding the right paint isn’t just about color; it’s about safety and ensuring the paint actually sticks to that tricky, often brittle surface.
This challenge is frustrating. Many homeowners worry about disturbing the old material or choosing a product that cracks and peels quickly. You need a solution that seals the siding, looks great for years, and, most importantly, keeps those asbestos fibers safely locked down. Skipping the right preparation or using the wrong primer can lead to costly failure later.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will reveal the best types of paint and the essential preparation steps needed for a successful, long-lasting finish on asbestos siding. Keep reading to learn exactly how to transform your home’s exterior safely and beautifully.
Top Paint For Asbestos Siding Recommendations
- PROFESSIONALLY RECYCLED PAINTS: Lower cost alternative to virgin paint, without sacrificing quality. One gallon of Recolor Exterior Paint, White covers about 400 square feet. This is exterior, latex paint with a medium sheen finish—produced in the USA!
- HIGH QUALITY: Processed from carefully screened feedstock so that the highest quality recycled content paint is produced. Undergoes additional testing for quality assurance making sure the paint is just as good as it was when it was first used. Our coverage is as good or better than that of the virgin paint.
- APPLICATION & COVERAGE: Durable and washable latex paint. Dry time is 2-6 hours. Clean-up is easy with just soap and water. NOTE: Colors may vary by batch. We recommend bulking paint from different batches together to ensure uniformity of color. Use as a topcoat or primer on all adequately prepared exterior, new, or painted surfaces. May be used on wood, concrete, vinyl, and aluminum siding or metal surfaces that have been properly primed
- ENVIRONMENTAL INTEGRITY: We collect leftover paint, utilizing a process that involves rigorous screening and quality control. We produce a paint that is recycled content, thereby maximizing environmental benefits such as natural resource conservation, reduction of waste, reduction of air and water pollution, and a reduced need for landfill space. Naturally low in ‘volatile organic compounds’ (VOC), which means it has fewer chemical solvents that are released into the air.
- WOMEN OWNED COMPANY IN THE USA: Recolor Paints began in 2009 as a small, women-owned, retail store in Scituate, Massachusetts. With a heartfelt concern for the environment, owners Katharine Brown and Tania Keeble are driven by the overwhelming amount of paint wasted in the United States. Currently, their high quality, recycled content paint is found in retail stores up and down the East Coast. All our paints come from the USA and are reprocessed in the USA
- PROFESSIONALLY RECYCLED PAINTS: Lower cost alternative to virgin paint, without sacrificing quality. One gallon of Recolor Exterior Paint, Gray covers about 400 square feet. This is exterior, latex paint with a medium sheen finish—produced in the USA!
- HIGH QUALITY: Processed from carefully screened feedstock so that the highest quality recycled content paint is produced. Undergoes additional testing for quality assurance making sure the paint is just as good as it was when it was first used. Our coverage is as good or better than that of the virgin paint.
- APPLICATION & COVERAGE: Durable and washable latex paint. Dry time is 2-6 hours. Clean-up is easy with just soap and water. NOTE: Colors may vary by batch. We recommend bulking paint from different batches together to ensure uniformity of color. Use as a topcoat or primer on all adequately prepared exterior, new, or painted surfaces. May be used on wood, concrete, vinyl, and aluminum siding or metal surfaces that have been properly primed
- ENVIRONMENTAL INTEGRITY: We collect leftover paint, utilizing a process that involves rigorous screening and quality control. We produce a paint that is recycled content, thereby maximizing environmental benefits such as natural resource conservation, reduction of waste, reduction of air and water pollution, and a reduced need for landfill space. Naturally low in ‘volatile organic compounds’ (VOC), which means it has fewer chemical solvents that are released into the air.
- WOMEN OWNED COMPANY IN THE USA: Recolor Paints began in 2009 as a small, women-owned, retail store in Scituate, Massachusetts. With a heartfelt concern for the environment, owners Katharine Brown and Tania Keeble are driven by the overwhelming amount of paint wasted in the United States. Currently, their high quality, recycled content paint is found in retail stores up and down the East Coast. All our paints come from the USA and are reprocessed in the USA
- Kilz 1682863 1 gal Oil & Water-Based Siding Fence & Barn Paint Exterior White - Pack of 4
- ENAMEL FLOOR PAINT: Provide your floors with an extremely durable and long-lasting finish using California Paint ALLFLOR Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel Paint.
- EXTREME DURABILITY: Formulated for maximum performance, this enamel paint offers excellent alkali, water and blister resistance. The fade-resistant colors remain bright through heavy use.
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS: Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel adheres to a variety of surfaces. It makes an ideal basement, porch, playroom, pool deck or patio paint.
- EASY TO APPLY: Ensure your surface is clean and free of defects and apply with a brush or roller. Follow all directions on label for application.
- LIFE IN COLOR: Known as the paint industry's historic color authority, California paints offers the highest quality coatings in more than 1,500 distinct colors. Find yourself a timeless classic or start a new trend.
- Color: White
- Premium quality latex paint providing outstanding Weather, UV and Fade Resistance for exterior applications
- Perfect for New or Previously painted wood, masonry/brick, metal surfaces and more
- High-hiding Barn & Fence paint that provides good color-retention and consistent pigmentation
- Superior Coverage up to 250 Sq Ft per Gallon plus Dries bug-free in 30 minutes
- ENAMEL FLOOR PAINT: Provide your floors with an extremely durable and long-lasting finish using California Paint ALLFLOR Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel Paint.
- EXTREME DURABILITY: Formulated for maximum performance, this enamel paint offers excellent alkali, water and blister resistance. The fade-resistant colors remain bright through heavy use.
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS: Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel adheres to a variety of surfaces. It makes an ideal basement, porch, playroom, pool deck or patio paint.
- EASY TO APPLY: Ensure your surface is clean and free of defects and apply with a brush or roller. Follow all directions on label for application.
- LIFE IN COLOR: Known as the paint industry's historic color authority, California paints offers the highest quality coatings in more than 1,500 distinct colors. Find yourself a timeless classic or start a new trend.
- ENAMEL FLOOR PAINT: Provide your floors with an extremely durable and long-lasting finish using California Paint ALLFLOR Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel Paint.
- EXTREME DURABILITY: Formulated for maximum performance, this enamel paint offers excellent alkali, water and blister resistance. The fade-resistant colors remain bright through heavy use.
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS: Porch, Patio and Floor Enamel adheres to a variety of surfaces. It makes an ideal basement, porch, playroom, pool deck or patio paint.
- EASY TO APPLY: Ensure your surface is clean and free of defects and apply with a brush or roller. Follow all directions on label for application.
- LIFE IN COLOR: Known as the paint industry's historic color authority, California paints offers the highest quality coatings in more than 1,500 distinct colors. Find yourself a timeless classic or start a new trend.
- SUPERIOR ADHESION: Interior and Exterior areas for concrete and asphalt surfaces, including safety areas, patios, pool decks, tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, bike paths, curbs, sidewalks, and many more.
- ADA STANDARDS: Exceeds ADA standards for anti-slip surfaces, ensuring enhanced safety in both residential and commercial settings.
- LONG-LASTING FINISH: This durable paint is resistant to harsh UV rays, fading, peeling, cracking, staining, water, salt, and chemicals, lasting for 5-8 years.
- EASY TO APPLY: This acrylic paint is also easy to apply and re-coat. Follow all directions on label for application.
- INDUSTRY EXPERTS: Founded in 1967, DYCO developed the first ever white mobile home roof coating and has been making one-of-a-kind coatings ever since. Today, we're a leader in the paint and specialty coatings industry
Choosing the Best Paint for Your Asbestos Siding: A Buyer’s Guide
Asbestos siding, often seen on older homes, presents a unique challenge when it comes to painting. You need a paint that not only looks good but also seals the surface properly. This guide helps you pick the right paint to revitalize your home’s exterior safely and effectively.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for paint for asbestos siding, prioritize these features:
- Excellent Adhesion: The paint must stick firmly to the siding. Poor adhesion leads to peeling quickly.
- Flexibility: Asbestos cement siding expands and contracts with temperature changes. A flexible paint moves with the siding, preventing cracks.
- Moisture Resistance: The paint should keep water out. Trapped moisture can damage the siding underneath over time.
- Mildew and Algae Resistance: Look for paints with built-in additives that fight mold and mildew growth, keeping your siding looking clean.
- Sealing Properties: Some paints offer better encapsulation, meaning they help seal in any microscopic loose fibers left on the surface.
Important Materials and Types of Paint
The type of paint you choose is crucial. Most experts recommend high-quality exterior coatings.
Acrylic Latex Paints (Water-Based)
These are generally the top choice today. They clean up easily with water. Modern 100% acrylic latex paints offer great flexibility and breathability. They allow moisture vapor to escape, which is important for cement-based products like asbestos siding.
Oil-Based (Alkyd) Paints
While historically used, oil-based paints are less common now. They offer very hard finishes. However, they can become brittle over time. If you use oil-based paint, ensure the surface is properly primed first.
Elastomeric Coatings
These are very thick, rubber-like coatings. They are fantastic for covering minor cracks and providing superior waterproofing. If your siding has many hairline cracks, elastomeric paint is a strong contender.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Paint Quality
The final look and durability depend heavily on the paint’s composition and how you apply it.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- High Solids Content: Paints with more actual pigment and binder (solids) offer better coverage and durability per coat.
- Thick Application: Applying two medium coats is usually better than one very thick coat. This builds a stronger, more uniform film.
- Quality Primer: A high-quality bonding primer specifically designed for masonry or chalky surfaces dramatically improves how well the topcoat sticks.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Low-Quality Binders: Cheap paints use fewer binders, leading to chalking (the paint rubbing off like dust) and poor adhesion.
- Improper Surface Prep: If you paint over dirt, mildew, or loose paint, the new paint will fail quickly, no matter how good the paint is.
- Painting in Extreme Weather: Applying paint when it is too cold or too hot, or when rain is expected soon, ruins the curing process.
User Experience and Use Cases
Homeowners often paint asbestos siding to improve curb appeal and protect the siding from weather damage.
User Experience Tips:
Most users report that applying high-quality acrylic paint with a sprayer offers the best finish. Spraying ensures an even coat across the textured surface. However, brushing or rolling works fine if you work the paint into the surface well. Always test a small, hidden area first.
Common Use Cases:
- Aesthetic Refresh: Updating the color of an old house.
- Sealing Chalky Surfaces: The paint locks down chalky siding that sheds dust.
- Waterproofing: Adding an extra layer of defense against driving rain.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Painting Asbestos Siding
Q: Do I need a special primer for asbestos siding?
A: Yes, using a high-quality bonding or masonry primer is highly recommended. This helps the topcoat stick firmly to the cementitious material.
Q: Can I paint over asbestos siding myself?
A: Yes, you can paint it yourself, but surface preparation is key. You must clean the surface thoroughly before painting.
Q: Is it safe to power wash asbestos siding before painting?
A: Power washing is fine, but use low pressure. High pressure can damage the siding or release fibers. Always wear protective gear.
Q: What is the best paint sheen for this type of siding?
A: Satin or semi-gloss sheens are usually best. They are more durable and easier to clean than flat finishes.
Q: How often will I need to repaint?
A: With high-quality acrylic paint and good preparation, you can expect the paint job to last 10 to 15 years.
Q: Will painting stop the asbestos from being a hazard?
A: Properly applied exterior paint seals the surface, encapsulating any fibers that might be exposed, making it safer.
Q: Can I use interior paint on my exterior asbestos siding?
A: Absolutely not. Exterior paint is formulated to handle UV rays, moisture, and temperature swings that interior paint cannot withstand.
Q: Should I scrape off old, loose paint first?
A: Yes. Scrape off any paint that is clearly flaking or peeling. If the old paint is sound, you can often just clean and prime over it.
Q: Does the paint color affect the siding’s temperature?
A: Yes. Dark colors absorb more heat, which can cause more expansion and contraction in the siding. Lighter colors reflect heat better.
Q: What is the best time of year to paint asbestos siding?
A: Paint when the temperature is moderate, usually between 50°F and 85°F, and when no rain is expected for at least 24 hours.