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Painting wood siding isn’t just about freshening up your home’s exterior. It’s about protecting your biggest investment from moisture, rot, UV rays, and seasonal weather changes. Whether you're tackling a heritage home in Vancouver or a cabin in the Okanagan, painting wood siding is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to paint wood siding like a pro—including surface prep, paint types, timing, and 15+ keyword-rich tips to help your paint job last.
Wood siding is beautiful—but it’s also vulnerable. Without proper maintenance, it can warp, peel, or even rot. That’s why painting wood siding is more than a cosmetic upgrade—it’s essential protection against the elements.
Well-painted siding acts as a weatherproof barrier. It helps regulate moisture, prevents mould, and keeps pests from settling in. Plus, with the right paint and technique, you’ll extend the lifespan of your siding by a decade or more.
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So when is the best time for painting wood siding?
In Canada, late spring through early fall is your painting window. Painting wood siding in the right season prevents bubbling, peeling, and premature wear.
Pro tip: If your existing paint is flaking or faded—or if you spot exposed wood—don’t delay. Painting wood siding sooner rather than later saves on future repairs.
Before painting wood siding, gather your tools:
Invest in high-quality materials. Painting wood siding with low-grade paint leads to faster breakdown and more maintenance long-term.
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Check for damaged boards, nails popping out, or mildew. Replace rotted sections. Use exterior-grade caulk to seal gaps and joints.
Use a power washer or hose with a scrub brush. Let the siding dry for 24–48 hours before painting.
Remove peeling paint with a scraper and sand edges smooth. Painting wood siding without prepping the surface leads to poor adhesion.
Use a stain-blocking, exterior-grade primer—especially on bare or repaired sections. Primer is essential when painting wood siding that’s older or unevenly weathered.
Two coats are best. Use a brush for precision or a sprayer for speed. Always go with the grain of the wood. Allow full drying time between coats.
Use 100% acrylic latex paint. It resists fading, cracking, and mildew better than oil-based options.
When painting wood siding, never skip primer unless your paint is self-priming (and even then, a separate primer is usually better).
Painting wood siding isn’t a one-and-done job. Depending on your climate, you’ll need to repaint every 5 to 10 years. Homes exposed to direct sun, salt air, or heavy rain may need more frequent touch-ups.
Regular inspection helps. Look for:
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Avoid these to keep your paint job looking great:
Painting wood siding properly means being patient. Take your time and the results will show for years.
Want to make your fresh paint job last? Here’s how:
Painting wood siding is only half the battle—ongoing care keeps your investment protected.
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Can I paint over stained wood siding?
Yes, but it must be cleaned, sanded, and primed with a stain-blocking primer first.
What colour works best for resale?
Neutrals like grey, beige, and white are timeless and buyer-friendly.
Can I paint wood siding myself?
Absolutely, with the right prep and tools. But hiring pros saves time and guarantees a longer-lasting result.
Is it worth painting instead of replacing wood siding?
Yes—if the wood is in good condition, painting wood siding is far more affordable than full replacement.
At Pro Works Painting, we specialize in painting wood siding that lasts through the toughest Canadian conditions. From North Vancouver to Regina, our teams handle prep, priming, and painting with expert care.
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When it comes to painting wood siding, don’t leave it to chance—trust the team who does it right the first time.