Your front door sets the stage for your entire home, so you want to make sure that it makes a great first impression. Metal doors are often preferred because of their security benefits, but they can eventually look faded or dated. Fortunately, it's possible to update the door with a fresh coat of paint.
Step #1: Preparation Counts
The key to painting a metal door is in the preparation. Otherwise, you will end up with cracking or peeling paint. This is because the paint won't adhere properly to a previously painted door. Combine this issue with the extreme temperatures that a metal doors conducts, whether from the heat of summer or the icy winds of winter, and bubbles and cracks are the result.
Begin by sanding the door with a wire brush or steel wool that has a medium grit. You can also use sandpaper, although it may take a little more effort. You need to remove any paint that has already begun to crack or peel, and then rough up any smooth spots so the fresh coat of paint adheres better. Once done, wipe down the door with a damp cloth and then let it dry.
Step #2: Prime Like a Pro
The next key to a well-painted metal door is primer. You need a primer that is formulated for outdoor use on metal. You can opt for either a latex- or oil-based primer, just make sure you remain consistent and use the same base for both the primer and the paint. For more even coverage, use a light color primer if the final paint will be light in color, and a darker primer for a darker final coat.
Apply a single coat of primer with a brush or roller. After it dries, sand lightly with a fine grit sandpaper. This roughs of the primer coat so the final paint coats adhere better.
Step #3: Painting Pointers
Once again, you need a paint formulated for outdoor use on metal. First, use a small brush to do the "cut-in" painting. This means painting around the door edges and around any decorations, such as insets or windows. Once this is done, use a roller to paint the rest of the door. Let the paint dry and then sand lightly with your fine grit paper. Apply a second coat, let it dry, and then step back and enjoy the new look.
For further questions or to upgrade to a whole new door, contact a local door retailer for more information.
Share11 November 2015
Doors – metaphorically, they stand for so much. They guard your home while welcoming your guests. They keep out the cold while also acting as a portal to warmth and good times outdoors. They give you privacy, but they also allow you to look through their windows or peepholes to see what's happening on the other side. Doors are one of the most meaningful elements of any home, but they are often over looked. Hi, my name is Maxine, and I never overlook a door. As soon as I move into new home, I invest in new doors, and I love finding doors that express my story and personality. Want to find the perfect door? Then explore this blog. It has the tips and ideas you need!