Tips for Painting and Refinishing Your Garage Door
A garage door is the main focal point of your home and contributes to ownership satisfaction and curb appeal. If your residence is in South Jersey, your installation experiences wear and tear due to changing temperatures, sun exposure and snow. Fortunately, you can rejuvenate the exterior finish of your investment with a fresh coat of paint.
At Hunter Door, we provide door installation and repair services for homeowners in South Jersey. Here are our top garage door refinishing tips.
Preparation Steps for Painting and Refinishing Your Garage Door
Our garage door painting guide begins with prep to ensure a successful and lasting finish. Here are some preparation tips for your garage door:
Monitor the Forecast
The process for painting a garage door is straightforward, but you will need at least three days to complete the project. If possible, plan to paint your garage door over a weekend that is not too hot or too cold. Choosing dry weather with moderate temperatures is essential for optimal results — plan your outdoor job for when humidity levels and rain chances are low. The ideal temperature for outdoor painting is typically between 50 and 85 degrees for consistent results.
Clean and Prep the Surface
Before painting, it is best to clean and prep surfaces to ensure an even coat. Start by power washing the door to remove dirt and debris. We recommend purchasing rubber gloves, safety goggles and protective masks for power washing. Depending on the type of garage door you have, a wire brush and fine grit sandpaper may be helpful for the removal of rust, dirt and grime.
Scrape off any old paint or rust spots that could affect the finish and use a sponge with soap and water to eliminate soil on the outside of the door. Rinse your garage door with a hose and allow the fixture to dry completely before proceeding.
Deactivate Automatic Openers
Switching your garage door to open manually will save you from straining your back as you work. Turning off the garage door opener is key for safety. Open and close your assembly as necessary to bring inner panels and stiles to eye-level. Working this way allows you to catch imperfections and any spots you miss.
Choosing the Right Paint and Tools
Choosing the right materials and tools is key for achieving a professional-looking finish when painting your garage door. Here are some painting tips for your garage door:
Select Exterior Paints and Primers
When refinishing garage door surfaces, make sure you shop for outdoor paints and primers. Use durable exterior paints designed specifically for metal or wood surfaces. These products are specifically designed to hold color without fading prematurely.
Applying primer also enhances the longevity of the paint. Give yourself a window of about twelve hours to allow the primer to dry completely.
Get the Essential Tools for the Job
While you’re at the hardware store, remember you’ll need hand-held brushes and rollers for a job well done. Gather painter’s tape, drop cloths and safety gear to ensure a smooth process.
Garage Door Painting Tips for a Flawless Finish
Painting a garage door can be challenging, especially if it’s your first attempt! To achieve a flawless finish, it’s important to use the right techniques and take your time throughout the process:
Apply the Paint
Your garage door paint project may call for more than one coat, especially if you are switching to a brighter hue. Start with thin, even coats to avoid drips and allow adequate drying time between coats. Check your progress between coats, and close your garage door when surfaces are drying. Leaving your door fully closed prevents unwanted dripping and smears.
Complete Edging and Detailing
Use painter’s tape for clean lines on edges and carefully consider corners and decorative elements. Remember to tape off anything you want to keep free from drips, spills and accidents.
Safety and Maintenance Tips for Your Garage Door
By following proper safety precautions during the painting process and implementing regular maintenance routines afterward, you can protect both yourself and your investment:
- Safety precautions: It’s important to prioritize safety while painting. Wear gloves, goggles and a mask for protection and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid fumes.
- Maintenance tips: After completing your project, regularly clean the door to maintain its appearance. Touch up small chips or scratches as needed and schedule periodic inspections to ensure durability.
Contact Hunter Door for Garage Doors in South Jersey
Hunter Door wants to bring your home improvement vision to life with one of our Clopay® selections. Our technicians are properly trained to handle both garage door installations as well as repairs for improvements to functionality, safety and aesthetics. We are your leading source for residential garage doors in South Jersey, and we pride ourselves on over 45 years of experience in the industry.
Fill out a contact form with Hunter Door for more information about our products and garage door maintenance services.