The Wooster Softip Angle Sash Paint Brush is a great option for giving your exterior door a beautiful finish. The soft bristles are made with a quality material that will give you a smooth, even coverage. The handle is also specially designed to help you maintain control while painting. Brush End Types Chisel Trim Brush - slanted bristles produce a good, straight line for trimming in corners and edges. Square Trim Brush - the ends of the bristles are cut square and used primarily for applying paint over flat areas. Angled Brush - bristles are cut to make it easier to apply paint to window trim.
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.
Door Brush Guard
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.
Looking for the best rollers for painting doors? Whether you want to paint interior or exterior doors, we have you covered!
I love painting a door – whether you want to paint it white, black, or add bold color, giving a door a fresh coat of paint it a great way to modernize it and add a bump of your personality to a space.
You can paint a door one of two ways – with a roller or with a paint sprayer.
Painting with a roller is going to be cheaper if you do not already own a paint sprayer. Plus, no over spray!
But, you need to select the correct roller for the job if you want your painting project to be successful.
What is the best roller for painting a door?
You want to use a roller and not a brush when painting a door. This will help eliminate brush marks. You want to pick a roller with low texture for the smoothest possible finish with your paint job.
What is the best roller for painting interior doors?
You want to use a mini foam roller to paint an interior door. The high density foam will prevent roller marks.
If your door is flat, you can use a full sized roller. If it has details, use a mini roller.
What is the best roller for painting exterior doors?
Once again, you want to use a mini foam roller on your doors. If there is detailing, paint it first with a brush and then roll the whole door.
What is the best roller for painting front doors?
You guessed it – the best thing to use to paint a front door is a mini foam roller. The high density foam will give your door the perfect smooth finish!
How do I paint a door with a roller?
In this article I walk you through the entire process of how to paint a door with a roller! If you have a flat surface door, a roller is all you need. If you have texture or details, you might need a brush to get into the grooves.
You will paint multiple coats, letting the paint dry completely between coats. Let the door dry for a few hours before handling it after the final coat of paint.
What type of paint do I use to paint a door?
Paint Brush For Door
They sell specific paint for painting exterior doors. Select an oil based paint with rust prevention.
If you are painting an interior door, you can use latex paint. Just be aware of the sheen – do you want glossy, satin, or matte finish?
How do I avoid roller marks when painting?
- The best way to avoid roller marks is to use the right type of roller.
- Mix your paint thoroughly to be sure that you get an even finish.
- Apply the paint evenly – don’t let it sit thicker in some areas.
- Don’t use cheap rollers or you will get fibers in the finish.
Do I paint the edges of a door?
You can, but I never have. You wold just need to tape off the front and back and paint the edge with the door open while you wait for the paint to dry!
How do I prep a door for painting?
You will want to give your door a light sanding to remove any loose or chipped paint. Then, wipe it with a clean cloth to remove all dust. That’s it!
Do I need to remove the door to paint it?
No, you do not need to remove your door to paint it. You can paint it hanging in place, luckily!
Do I need to remove the door hardware to paint it?
No, you do not. Simply use painter’s tape to tape around the hardware to help keep it clean. Worst case scenario, dry paint scratches off of hardware with your fingernail.
How do I pick a paint color for my door?
Front Door Paint Brush
Pick a color that compliments your decor. For exterior doors, you can often get away with a bolder color. such as red or yellow. Interior doors should be more muted, unless you want them to be the focal point of the space.
Can I add a pattern to a door?
Yes you can! We used Frog Tape to add a geometric pattern to an interior door! There are so many possibilities for painting a fun design on your door.
Can I add molding to a door?
Yes! We added a molding effect to our flat doors with plywood and then painted them white for a traditional look.
Any more questions?
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Sliding Door Brush Seal