How to paint an exterior door?

Question

How do I paint an exterior door on my home?

Amanda M · Answer

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!

3po3 · Answer

Sherwin-Williams has a range of exterior acrylic latex paints that should work for you. Some of the higher-end paints are even self-priming, so that's another option for you. What is the door made of?

Zoe Emiko · Answer

The first thing you'll need to do is give your door a good cleaning and sanding to get rid of all the peeling paint. I would suggest adding a layer of primer and using any good exterior paint to repaint it. You might even be able to get away with using Rust-oleum spray paint. Whatever you decide to do though you'll need to clean up and primer your door first. Paint will be your biggest expense but just painting a door won't take much paint at all. Remember, a couple thin coats of paint letting them dry fully between coats will last much longer, and look much better, than a single heavy coat.

Beja Foster · Answer

If you use interior paint, it'll fade faster in the sun. I did this, and after 3 years, I needed to repaint. This time, I used a Rustoleum glossy indoor outdoor paint that only cost $5 at Walmart.

Susan Austin · Answer

if you have all loose paint off that's fine. then proceed with light sanding. tape off door knobs and hinges if your not going to be removing them. give it a good coat of primer and let dry. then paint.

Bonnie Kean · Answer

Exterior Satin...and it will have UV protection and can take the elements and heat better. Sand/prime/scrape door finish if needed. 2 coats of finish (exterior)...best way to do it. Painter for 43 years. :)

Becky at Flipping the Flip · Answer

It depends on what material your door is but ideally a paint meant for outdoors or an oil based paint such as Rustoleum will wear best in an outdoor situation.

GrandmasHouseDIY · Answer

I agree with Becky an oil based paint will hold up better to the outdoors.

Carole · Answer

I'm assuming it is a wood door. Use an exterior paint. I would prime first myself no matter what the paint says. Then 2 coats of paint. The finish is up to your preference.

Mad29883817 · Answer

Would definitely use semi-gloss paint as over time flat paint gets dull

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Hi, That depends on what material the door is made from.

Timber - Gloss Paint

Aluminium - Metal Paint

UPVC - Not really recommended - but look for one that will cover UPVC at Paint shop or ask advice from door manufacturers............ Good luck!

Kelli L. Milligan · Answer

1) Clean with TSP

2) Sand

3) Prime with exterior oil primer

4) 2 coats of exterior rated oil paint in any color you want

(exterior semi gloss latex. Latex directly on metal will cause it to rust)

Yvonne 'Nan' Larson · Answer

Use a lightish color if the door is in the sun. It will last longer than a darkish color.

Annie · Answer

I would use a exterior enamel, probly a semi gloss so it will clean easy.

K. Rupp · Answer

Rustoleum has amazing finishes. You may want to spray seal it with an exterior sealer after applying to last longer.

Ken Erickson · Answer

Paint store can give good info. Any exterior latex paint will work. Remove door handles before painting.

Linda Carl Holder · Answer

Any good exterior paint if this is an outside door, preferably an enamel paint.

Ann|The Apple Street Cottage · Answer

I painted mine by laying down a drop cloth, cleaning the door with soap and water, taping off the windows, and painting with a quality brush. Be sure to use a good exterior paint.

Redcatcec · Answer

Here's a really good video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6VQWvQQJpY

Kathy Gunter Law · Answer

The best thing is to remove it in order to paint it. If you can't do that, then hang a sheet of plastic over the opening and tape all the way around to prevent dust and insects from flying in. Put a piece of plastic or drop cloth on the floor beneath the door. You will need to prep it, probably with a deglosser. Then you are ready to prime and paint. Make sure you get a paint that is formulated for an exterior door and the type of material your door is made of.