The best solution for painting vinyl siding to make it last and an inexpensive exterior pool shed makeover.
We tackled the tired pool shed and used every budget-friendly trick we could to transform it into something we love.
UPDATE: See the final pool reveal here!
That old beige vinyl siding was out of date and standing out next to our new pool liner, so we decided to give the shed a fresh, durable coat of paint. It was hard work—sweaty and messy—but the result was absolutely worth it.
When we mentioned in our Instagram Stories during a backyard tour that we planned to paint the vinyl siding, a few people doubted it could be done safely. The short answer: yes—you can paint vinyl siding, if you use the right products and follow the proper steps.
After researching options, we chose Sherwin Williams’ VinylSafe color line. VinylSafe is formulated so certain colors won’t cause the vinyl to overheat and warp in the sun. Regular exterior paints can work too, but you’re usually limited to shades very similar to the existing siding unless the paint is formulated specifically for vinyl.
This isn’t a sponsored post—I’m just sharing a solution that saved us a lot of money compared with replacing the siding. We used the VinylSafe color Pepper Shake in Sherwin Williams’ Emerald formula and were pleased with how well it covered and how durable it looks.
Supplies Used:
- Power washer
- Large paint brush (or paint sprayer for faster coverage on large areas)
- Pressure washer detergent (we used a simple green pressure washer detergent)
- Sherwin Williams VinylSafe paint — Pepper Shake in Emerald formula
- Wide putty knife or flat foam board to protect trim while painting
The Steps:
1. Mix the detergent following the product directions and load it in your pressure washer.
2. Wash the siding thoroughly with the detergent, then rinse completely with clean water. Good preparation is essential for paint adhesion.
3. Allow the siding to dry fully. Painting over damp vinyl will reduce adhesion and shorten the paint’s lifespan.
4. Apply the VinylSafe paint. We used a large brush for control around grooves and seams, but a sprayer works well for faster, even coverage on larger surfaces.
5. Protect trim while painting by holding a wide putty knife or foam board against the edge so you can avoid using tape. This method speeds the process and keeps lines neat.
The VinylSafe paint covered in one coat on our shed—fast and efficient.
We painted the trim and doors in a crisp white to match our main house, then added black vinyl shutters for a finished, polished look. For the window boxes, we repurposed scrap wood from old fencing; the boxes only cost us the plants and a little liner material since the lumber was free.
We also replaced rusty, loose door knobs with simple aged-brass hardware for a quick upgrade. All told, the total cost for paint, shutters, window boxes, and new knobs was about $275—an inexpensive makeover that dramatically improved curb appeal.
The shed now stores our lawn equipment and pool gear, but down the road we hope to convert it into a snack shack or small outdoor bar area. For now, we’ll enjoy the improved exterior and save the interior organization for another project.
So if you’re considering painting vinyl siding, look for paints formulated for vinyl like Sherwin Williams VinylSafe, clean and prep thoroughly, and choose the right tools—pressure washer, brush or sprayer, and simple trim protection—to get a long-lasting, modern finish.
