Painting a garage door is a simple yet powerful way to refresh your home’s exterior and boost curb appeal. Whether your door is faded, stained, or just doesn’t match your current style, a fresh coat of paint can make it look brand new. With the right preparation and materials, this DIY project can be completed in a weekend.
However, if your door shows signs of rust, warping, or mechanical issues, it may be worth consulting a professional. A San Diego, CA garage door repairman can ensure your door is in proper working condition before you begin the painting process.
Is painting a garage door a good idea?
Yes, it can enhance curb appeal, protect the door from weather damage, and allow you to update your home’s look affordably without replacing the entire door. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Gather supplies
Before getting started, make sure you have the following:
- Exterior paint (latex or oil-based, depending on the door material)
- Primer (especially important for bare metal or wood)
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Wire brush or sandpaper
- Mild detergent
- Paintbrushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer
Step 2: Clean the door
A clean surface is essential for paint adhesion. Use water and a mild detergent to wash the entire door, removing grease, dirt, and mildew. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely. If there is old, peeling paint or rust, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove it. For metal doors, it’s important to sand lightly to help the primer and paint adhere better.
Step 3: Protect surrounding areas
Use painter’s tape to mask off any trim, windows, handles, or areas you don’t want painted. Lay down plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect the driveway or garage floor from paint drips or spills.
Step 4: Apply primer
If the door is bare metal, untreated wood, or previously painted with a different type of paint, a primer is essential. Choose a rust-inhibiting primer for metal doors and a stain-blocking primer for wood. Apply the primer evenly and allow it to dry as instructed on the label. This step helps ensure a smooth finish and long-lasting color.
Step 5: Paint the door
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to apply the paint. Use a high-quality exterior paint that is formulated for the material of your door. A semi-gloss or satin finish is ideal because it’s durable and easy to clean. Start by painting the recessed panels, then move on to the raised areas and edges. Work from top to bottom to prevent drips. Use a roller for large flat areas and a brush for detail work and edges. Apply a second coat once the first has fully dried for an even, long-lasting finish.
Step 6: Let it cure
After the final coat, allow the paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid opening or closing the door until the paint is fully cured to prevent smudges or sticking.
Where in San Diego, CA, can I find a trusted garage door repairman?
Whether you’d like to stay up to date on the latest garage door trends for this year or you’re curious to explore the ways technology could change garage doors forever, reach out to our expert team at Dlouhy Doors. We have the skills, knowledge, and experience to provide you with all the necessary information and take proper care of your unit, keeping it in optimal shape. No matter if you need us around the Old Globe Theatre or across SD, we’ll reach you promptly to address your needs. Call today!