Oil-base finish paint is not used much anymore. But for bare wood, oil base primer works great, especially the slow drying kind (not Kilz) because it soaks in a long way while it is drying.

Sher-Wms. has paints just for metal, one is called 'DTM' (direct to metal).

If you want to buy one paint that is made for multiple surfaces then check into their latex 'All Surface Enamel'. It's a pretty good all around paint, easily cleanable where hands might be leaving prints.

Best, Charles

Melissa, Peace is right on. I recently used all surface enamel to paint a primed steel entry door at my house upon the advice of the Sherwin Williams rep. One quick tip that I might add is that the weatherstripping on a traditional steel entry door can typically be carefully pulled out of the groove it is installed in. Removing it for a few days will help keep the paint from sticking to it and allow a little more dry time.

As a DIYer, I like using enamel based paints for outdoor projects. These tend to be tougher in high traffic areas. Also it is easy to clean which is great with little fingers and puppy's nose marks. Good luck!

Peace is right AGAIN. Just don't make the mistake of painting a wood door and then coating it with spar varnish. . . it will crack and discolor.

We will still use an oil based product on metal mansard roofs or metal railings...we usually get excellent results on metal doors or garage doors with 1-coat of zinser 1-2-3 latex primer followed by Sherwin Williams Duration. With everything else, make use you clean and prep properly. With latex, we don't usually see the need to remove weatherstripping.

I have a 20 yr old home and had the real wood sanded down and stained - turned out great - but the best part was the BOAT LACKer that he used to finish it - shines and had held up great. Love the boat lacker finish.