What sheen should gutters be painted?

Author: Joyce Purdy  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Semi Gloss Paint Exterior use is common for guttering and trims as it is not a high sheen level but has high washability. Colour bond products are typically semi gloss in their sheen level, so this is the sheen to use when matching prefabricated or colourbond products such as roofs, gutters and downpipes.

What is the best paint finish for gutters?

For aluminum gutters, oil-based or acrylic paints work best. Gutters are constantly open to the elements. Hence the endurance capability of the paint is key. We recommend a durable finish, for example, with gloss or semi-gloss, as these are less likely to peel off than matte-style paint.

Do I need to prime aluminum gutters before painting?

An important note when painting on aluminum materials is to always remember to use a clear acrylic bonding primer. You can find this at any basic hardware store. If the sun is out on the day you choose to paint, you should wait at least a couple hours between cleaning and coating with prier.

Should you paint gutters with a brush or roller?

If you are using an oil-based paint then a natural bristle paint brush would be best. Paint both the inside and the outside of the guttering as well as painting the braces if you removed these. Allow the first coat of paint to fully dry as per the manufacturers instructions.

What sheen to paint soffit and fascia?

Higher sheen finishes such as gloss have an added durability which makes them easier to maintain. It is generally considered that a flat finish such as matt is slightly too dull for exterior trim, with satin and gloss being the two best options.

Paint Sheen Differences Explained In 5 Minutes

What sheen are gutters?

Semi Gloss Paint

Exterior use is common for guttering and trims as it is not a high sheen level but has high washability. Colour bond products are typically semi gloss in their sheen level, so this is the sheen to use when matching prefabricated or colourbond products such as roofs, gutters and downpipes.

What sheen is fascia?

Flat/Matte

Recommended for painting accents, trims and accessories such as soffit, fascia and eaves, wood fences, garage doors and gutters.

What paint is water proof for gutters?

  • Gorilla 84756 Waterproof Coat & Seal Black 473ml. ...
  • Everbuild Evercryl One Coat Instant Waterproofing – Suitable for Roofs, Gutters and Gulleys – Grey – 1kg. ...
  • Bond-It Bitumen Paint - 1 litre - Solvent-bourne bituminous black paint for waterproofing & weatherproofing steelwork, concrete, wood, asphalt & portable water tanks.

Should gutters be gloss?

Gloss or semi-gloss finishes are recommended for gutter painting. High-gloss paint can highlight imperfections, such as any stubborn patches of old paint that couldn't be removed, but it is more resistant to peeling over time compared to matte finishes.

Is Rustoleum paint good for gutters?

Rust-Oleum LeakSeal makes it easy to stop gutter leaks. Spray the flexible, rubber coating over cracks and small holes to repair leaky gutters and other outdoor surfaces, like downspouts and vinyl siding. Remove any dirt or debris from the part of the gutter you plan to coat.

Can I spray paint my aluminum gutters?

Once you've decided on the paint, next you'll need to decide whether to use a sprayer or a brush. This choice is simply a matter of preference. While spraying may sound easier, if your gutters are still attached when spraying, it can be difficult to protect the rest of your home from excess paint.

What do you clean gutters with before painting?

Dishwashing liquid is very effective for cleaning gutters. Commercial cleaner from your hardware store is also a good option. Always use them at the recommended concentrations.

What is the best way to seal aluminum gutters?

For sealing and joining lap seams in aluminum or vinyl gutters and downspouts, we recommend a permanently flexible and water resistant sealant. Apply the sealant. Apply the sealant with a steady pressure, forcing sealant into the joint. Press the materials together.

What is the best outdoor gutter paint?

For aluminium gutters, use either oil based or acrylic paint, whereas steel gutters work best with an oil-based enamel paint. Vinyl gutters need to be painted with an exterior latex paint. When you're painting, use a brush rather than a paint roller and apply an even coat to the entire surface.

Do you paint gutters the same color as trim?

Your gutters don't need to match your trims' look to work properly, but a similar shade adds many points in the esthetics department. After all, your gutters will also play a part in making a positive first impression.

Can you still get oil-based gloss paint?

While many manufacturers are developing water-based gloss paints, oil-based paints are still the go-to choice for many.

How do I make my gutters shine?

Clear Debris From the Gutters
  1. Wear safety glasses to keep bits of dried leaves and other debris out of your eyes.
  2. Put on the rubber gloves under your work gloves if the debris is damp. ...
  3. Begin cleaning near a downspout. ...
  4. Remove and clean the downspout strainer.
  5. Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand.

Is it worth painting gutters?

Although painting your gutters does not seal them or provide any new functionality, it is worth it to paint them because they may wear fast than other parts of your home.

What is the best paint for aluminum gutters and fascia?

Suitable paints

Acrylic paint – Acrylic paints are a popular choice for soffit and fascia. They come in a variety of colors that can easily be matched to your existing color scheme. Acrylic paint is durable and long-lasting.

What paint is most waterproof?

There are three main types of waterproof paint: epoxy, masonry, and acrolein elasticized paint. Waterproof paint resists water damage, prevents mold and mildew growth, and is easy to clean. This type of paint can cost more than standard varieties at $1 to $8 per square foot.

What color should I paint my rain gutters?

White is usually looked at as a safe color to paint your gutters because it is inconspicuous and will pretty much go with any color palette or style of home. In general, white will help your gutters blend in, especially if your home's fascia (the board upon which the gutters are hung) is also white.

Can you paint gutters with a brush?

Now that your gutters are prepped, paint them. Apply an even coat to the entire surface, inside and out. Make sure no spot is left unpainted and make sure it has a nice, even coat. You can utilize any brush you want so long as it is providing the results you want.

What paint sheen for gutters?

Gloss (semi-gloss) finish

Other surfaces ideal for a gloss finish include garage doors, metal trim, lamp posts, metal gutters, railings and many types of accent trim.

What sheen is best for outdoor paint?

The best sheen for exterior paint is satin. Flat sheens quickly lose their color and are more prone to damage. Semi-gloss sheens can become sticky and develop an unpleasant texture. A satin sheen is ideal because improves the paint's durability and color retention without overly impacting the texture.

Is satin or semi-gloss better for exterior paint?

Semi-gloss exterior paint is glossy and repels water better than satin paint. It's gloss makes it ideal for showing architectural details on your mantels, kitchen cabinets, front doors, and overall trim.

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