How to paint a steel front door

Michele
by Michele
Do I need to sand the door prior to painting? Anyone have advice on how to do this?

  6 answers
  • Ebbjdl Ebbjdl on Oct 07, 2017

    You'll need a primer first, then metal paint. Sand the door if it has any shine to it. There are many colors, textures, finishes to choose from. Take a ride to Homedepot or Lowe's, and see what they have, or your local hardware store.

  • Gary B Gary B on Oct 07, 2017

    Always lightly sand with a fine grit sandpaper after you remove the knob and knocker before painting

  • Bijous Bijous on Oct 07, 2017

    If the door is in good shape, just a good cleaning will do. Do not use anything that will leave a residue. TSP and water is a good cleaner. I always take doors and all the hardware off to paint. If you are unable to do so, take your time to tape around all hardware. Make sure the tape does not overlap the door anywhere. I use oil or alkaline paint on steel doors. Is the original paint oil and you want to use acrylic? Use a primer that will adhere to oil and can take acrylic paint (your local paint store can help with the primer and exterior paint). Just, fyi: the acrylic will not hold up as well as the oil or alkaline. Good luck.

    • Michele Michele on Oct 07, 2017

      Hi,

      The door was factory painted, I am not sure what they use.

      Thank you for your advice. I appreciate it!

  • Michele Pappagallo Michele Pappagallo on Oct 07, 2017

    Yes, sand the door first to remove any shiny or slick areas and to insure that it is smooth. If the door has panels, start by painting them first, then work around the outer edges, etc. Paint a couple of thin coats for best results.

  • Bijous Bijous on Oct 07, 2017

    Hi Michele, then it was oil.