Easy Ways On How To Paint A Metal Door Without Brush Marks
Your home’s front door is the first thing people notice. If you want to make a good impression, a nicely painted steel door can significantly affect the look and feel of your house. You don’t even have to hire a professional painter to do it because you can its simple, easy, and you can do it by yourself.
Have you ever experienced painting a steel door only to end up with a trail of ugly brush marks? Many DIY painters especially beginners go through the exact same problem including me. However, do not fret because there are actually simple and easy ways on how to paint a metal door without brush marks.
In this post, we’ll talk about ways and provide tips on how to avoid this. You can still salvage that rusty and withered steel door that you’ve been dying to makeover. All you need is a proper set of tools and the right mindset.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Paint
- 220 grit sandpaper
- Sander
- Screwdriver
- Paintbrush
- Painter’s tape
- Tray
- Solvent
- Foam roller
- Sponge or cloth
- Stir stick
- Caulk
- Hammer
A metal door should be handled with extra care especially since the paint that goes over the surface isn’t easily absorbed by the steel.
Once you’ve gathered all your tools and materials, just simply follow this step-by-step guide on how to successfully paint your exterior door without leaving any streak marks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparation:
1. Detach the door from its hinges.
Use a flathead screwdriver and insert it between the hinge and the hinge pin. Make sure that it is angled upward in 45 degrees.
Then gently hammer the end of the screwdriver until the hinge pin comes out and remove it. Repeat this process on the other hinge. Don’t forget to ask someone to support and hold the door while you remove it from the hinges.
Once you detach the door, lay it down horizontally. It’s easier to paint rather if the door is flat compared to painting it while it is still attached. This way, you can apply a layer of paint without any runs. In case your paint is too thick, you can level out the brush marks evenly since it is laid flat.
2. Remove the hardware.
The hardware refers to any object that you can dismantle from the door including the handle, hinges, locks, and other pieces. You can use the same screwdriver to detach the hardware. This prevents you from accidentally painting and ruining your beautiful hardware.
3. Fill in the holes.
Check your door for any signs of cracks and holes. If there are chips and dents on the surface, use a caulk to fill in the spaces.
This will make the surface even so that it’s easier to paint on. Afterward, let it dry for at least 2 hours before you start painting on it.
4. Clean the surface.
Get a rag and soak it in a solvent. An acetone or mineral spirits are good choices.
This will get help rid of any paint residue, oil, and dirt left on the surface of your door. Make sure the surface is dry and let the smell from the solvent disperse before you go to the next step.
5. Sand it.
Sanding is important because it evens out the surface so that your paint can go smoothly. It also eliminates any elements left on your door.
Use a 220 grit sandpaper and make sure you sand all areas and edges to make sure you won’t miss a spot. After sanding, repeat the process of sanding.
6. Cover and tape other parts of the door.
If there are any hardware left that cannot be dismantled, use a painter’s tape to protect it. Tape all areas that you do not want to paint on.
Painting
1. Pick a good quality exterior paint.
Check the label and make sure it is suitable for painting exterior surfaces. An exterior paint is made from materials that can withstand the harsh elements.
A good suggestion is to get an acrylic or latex paint that is water-based because it dries faster. Another option is to use an alky-based oil paint since it provides better protection for your door.
If the existing paint on your door is water-based, you need to use the same type of paint. However, if it is oil-based, you can use either an oil or water-based paint.
2. Prime it properly.
Applying a layer of primer allows your paint to achieve better coverage. A primer blocks stains and absorbs your paint better. This will make your paint glide over smoothly and evenly.
Make sure you apply the primer properly because it is one of the reasons why you get brush marks. Once you apply the primer, it dries quickly and sometimes before you even out the thick material. One tip is to add just enough water to thin the primer. Another good advice is to apply the first coating of your primer lightly. Use a sanding sponge over it then apply another coating. You can repeat this process up to three times.
Afterward, use a sander to smoothen the surface. This will even out the door and prepare you for the next step.
3. Paint your door.
Use a painter stick to stir your paint and then pour it into the tray. Use a paint brush to cover the trims and panels.
Then use a foam roller to paint over the rest of the door. Let it dry first before you flip it over.
4. Do the finishing touches.
Peel off the tape. Remove the tape while the paint is still wet. Otherwise, once the paint dries up, you may have a harder time peeling off the tape.
Make sure the paint is fully dry before you install it on the hinges. Re-install all the hardware before you mount your door. Lastly, re-attach your door to the hinges.
Say Goodbye to Streaks and Brush Marks
Just follow these steps accordingly. This simple and easy guide will help you finally get rid of those brush marks that are such an eye sore. All you need is practice and eventually you’ll get the hang of it.
If you enjoyed this article, please share it with your friends especially those who are looking for ways to improve their painting skills. Should you have any suggestions or comments, drop us a message and we’d be delighted to hear from you.