Painting a garage door will extend its life, change and modernize your home’s appearance, and add curb appeal for a home on the market. The door is exposed to the elements; it can fade, chip or rust. This is a simple fix and is not complicated. Important – remember to wait 24 hours after the door is painted before using it.
Watch the Weather
Before starting, keep in mind the weather. In Nashville, this should be done after the winter months are definitely finished. In order for the paint to dry properly, the temperature needs to be neither too hot nor too cold. Also, there needs to be several days without rain, so watch the weather forecast closely.
Prep Your Garage Door
To prepare your garage door for painting, all surfaces should be sanded. Remove any peeling paint or rust, if the door is metal. Cover exposed metal with sealing primer if metal is exposed by the sanding.
Next, clean the door thoroughly. Use a power washer on its lowest setting. A sponge and water with detergent will work. Pay close attention to the bottom of the door, as that is where most grime build-up will occur. This is probably the most difficult step in prepping.
Tape the door’s edges. Place plastic, tarp or another cover under the door to protect the garage floor/driveway from the paint. This can be done by raising the door, placing the covering, and then lowering the door.
Priming and Painting Garage Doors
The next step to perfectly re-painting your garage door is adding a coat of primer. Unless you are starting painting a light color that is very similar to the former color, a primer is required. Be certain to use a primer appropriate for external use.
Outdoor surfaces require a latex paint. Paint in thin layers, and let each coat dry before you start the next coat. Use a roller for large surfaces and a small brush for edges or details.
REMINDER: Do not use the door until the paint is thoroughly dry!