Your garage door is an important part of your home’s exterior. If you have an attached garage, you may want it to blend in with the rest of your home’s exterior. Painting your garage door is a simple do-it-yourself project that can give your home a more polished look.
For many homeowners who want to add a personal touch to their home, painting their garage door is a great way to do it. If you think the same way, you can achieve great results with little time and effort, even if you are not a professional. Our garage door experts at Palms Garage Doors have put together a guide to help give your garage door a new look in no time.
Steps to Painting a Garage Door
Observe the Weather
It is important to check the weather forecast before planning to start painting. The best temperature for painting is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with low humidity and indirect sunlight. Choose three days in a row that have the ideal weather conditions.
Gather Your Supplies
The next step in painting your garage door is to gather your supplies. Most garage doors today are made of aluminum, but if you have an older home, yours may be constructed of wood. Be sure to select the paint and primer suitable for your garage door to ensure optimal adherence and longevity.
If you are unsure about what paint to buy for your garage door, consult your local paint store experts. On average, a gallon of paint should be enough to cover the entire door. However, remember that it might take more than one layer to cover a darker color with a lighter one.
Wash and Scrub the Door Thoroughly
Before you begin painting your garage door, it is important to take the necessary steps to prepare the surface. It will ensure that the paint adheres properly and lasts for a long time. Do not forget to wear your safety gear, including work gloves, a dust mask, and safety goggles.
To create a smooth base for your paint job, start by sanding the door with a fine-grit sandpaper. Next, using a sponge and all-purpose cleanser, scrub the surface well to remove any dirt or grime. Then give the door a thorough garden hose cleaning to prevent future problems. After the door is clean, dry it thoroughly with towels or rags. Finally, allow the door to air dry for at least an hour before beginning your paint job.
Mask Anything You Do Not Want to Be Painted
Be sure to mask any areas with handles, locks, or windows you do not want the paint to get on. It will require heavy-duty painter’s tape. You may also want to tape the trim off if you do not plan to paint it. For example, suppose you are painting the trim and tape off the edges of the garage door. By doing this, you can protect the driveway and interior of the garage from any paint spills.
Apply Exterior Primer Coating
To prep your garage door for a new coat of paint, use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer of primer. It will give the fresh paint something to adhere to and help it last longer. Be sure to wash out your brush thoroughly afterward so you can reuse it for painting later on. You can skip this step by applying the garage door with the same color paint. Give primer at least 12 hours to dry.
Paint the Garage Door
Using high-quality exterior paint when painting doors is important, using the same technique as you would for priming. Begin with the inner panels and work your way outwards to the stiles, going from bottom to top.
If Necessary, Apply a Second Layer of Paint
After you have painted the door, step back and take a look at your work. If there are any areas where the old color is showing through or the paint is uneven, apply a second coat. Let the first coat dry for at least 12 hours before starting the second one. Once finished, remove the tape and let the paint dry overnight before opening the door.
Hiring a professional to paint your garage door is a great way to ensure the job is done right. It is especially true if you have more than one garage door or if the door is old and needs extensive prep work before painting can begin. Hiring a pro can save time and effort in the long run.
Garage Door Repair near Me
Are you looking for a professional garage door repair service? Look no further than Palms Garage Doors! For over ten years, we have been serving the Greater Bay Area from San Francisco to San Jose and up to Oakland. We have you covered, from garage door installation and garage door maintenance to garage door replacement. Additionally, we provide a selection of premium insulated garage doors. So, call us now for free estimates.
