Tiny Black dots start to come out from gutter (factory spray coated). I got a quote from painter. Gutter and fasia about $5k (2 story). cheaper to change it?
The guy was saying original gutter painting was done at factory so it lasted quite long time. He said gutter painting is very special and it will take long time to cure. he was thinking to use water based paint. it will last about 8 years.
This guy in this youtube used water based paint.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmsbhttbqiM
Google suggested oil based paint.
ChatGPT:
Good question — gutter painting isn’t particularly special, but it does have a few unique considerations compared to painting walls, siding, or trim. Here’s a breakdown so you can see what makes it somewhat special and what’s just standard painting work:
What’s normal about it
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You’re still just cleaning, priming, and painting metal or vinyl.
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Most exterior paints (like acrylic latex) work fine.
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Brushes, rollers, or spray guns can all be used.
? What’s special about it
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Surface Type (Aluminum or Galvanized Metal)
Gutters are usually aluminum — which means paint adhesion can be tricky if you skip prep.-
You must remove oxidation and oils first (clean with TSP or a degreaser).
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Use a self-etching or bonding primer if the metal is bare.
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Thermal Expansion & Flex
Gutters expand and contract more than most surfaces. The paint must be flexible (100% acrylic is ideal) to prevent peeling. -
Exposure
Gutters see constant water flow, UV, and dirt buildup. The paint must have:-
High UV resistance
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Mildew resistance
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Good adhesion to metal under wet/dry cycles
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Color Matching & Aesthetics
Since gutters sit right next to fascia and trim, the color choice and finish really affect curb appeal — so people often match factory coatings or repaint entire trim lines for uniformity. -
Access & Safety
Painting gutters means ladder work, sometimes on rooflines — not technically “painting-special,” but logistically harder than siding or decks.
Recommended materials
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Cleaner: TSP substitute or degreaser
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Primer: Self-etching metal primer or acrylic bonding primer
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Paint: Exterior-grade 100% acrylic latex (satin or semi-gloss)
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Tools: Angled sash brush or HVLP sprayer for long runs
? When not to paint
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Vinyl gutters that are chalky or brittle (paint will peel fast).
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Factory-coated aluminum (baked enamel) unless the coating is scuffed and cleaned first.
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New gutters within a few months of install (the factory finish may need to weather before it’ll hold paint).
So — gutter painting is not “specialized” in technique, but it is special in surface prep and material compatibility. Most good painters can do it, but the best ones know to use metal-specific primers and flexible acrylic paints.
Would you like me to outline a quick step-by-step gutter painting process (DIY-style or professional-style)?
I don't want to paint 2nd story gutter. Not sure if i want to do 1st floor either.
I like to learn more on HVAC, plumbing and electric work if I have time and energy.
