How to Fix Warped Vinyl Siding

What is Warped Siding?

Warping or buckling of vinyl siding panels that have been repainted, usually in a shade that's darker than the siding's original hue.

What Causes It?

  • The likely cause is that vinyl siding was repainted with a darker color paint than the original color. Dark paint tends to absorb the heat of the sun, transferring it to the surface below. When vinyl siding expands dramatically, it is not able to contract to its original dimensions.

Solutions for Warped Siding

  • Siding that has warped or buckled should be assessed by a siding or home repair contractor to determine the best remedy. The siding may have to be replaced. 
  • Request a Sherwin-Williams paint that's available in VinylSafe® paint colors. These options allow you to choose from 100 colors, including a limited selection of darker colors formulated to resist warping or buckling when applied to sound, stable vinyl siding.
  • If you are not using products with VinylSafe® paint colors, paint vinyl siding in a shade that isn't any darker than the original color of the siding. Whites, off-whites, pastels, and other very light colors are good choices.
  • When painting vinyl siding, be sure to follow all manufacturer instructions regarding surface preparation.
  • Oil-based coatings are not recommended on vinyl siding due to poor flexibility.

Warped Siding Repair Products

Exterior Repairs

If necessary, replace any warped siding, then start fresh with a Sherwin-Williams paint in a VinylSafe color. Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex, Duration® Exterior Acrylic Latex, and SuperPaint® Exterior Acrylic Latex are all available in VinylSafe® shades.