How To Paint a Steel Garage Door
Every now and then, you may wish to spruce up the appearance of your home and give it a quick boost in kerb appeal. One simple and affordable way to achieve this is by painting your garage door. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of colour or some muted tones, a new coat of paint can transform your property with a fresh new look. But how do you paint your steel garage door?
Luckily, the experts at Access Garage Doors are here to walk you through the process and help you achieve a beautiful exterior.
Can a steel garage door be painted?
Yes, a steel garage door can be painted; this is a common practice to enhance appearance, protect your door from the elements and increase its longevity. It also allows you to customise the colour of your garage door to seamlessly match your home’s aesthetic or create a new look altogether.
However, it’s important that proper surface preparation is carried out and only suitable paint is used; otherwise, the paint may not adhere properly and you’ll be left with premature peeling.
What equipment do you need?
Before starting to repaint your garage door, ensure you have the following equipment on hand so that the process goes smoothly:
- Dust sheets
- Mask and goggles
- Metal paint and primer
- Masking tape
- Paint brushes and/or rollers
- Sanding block or light sandpaper
- Drill
- Degreaser
- Cloth
How to paint a garage door
Before beginning to paint your garage door, check the weather conditions, as rain or excessive wind can complicate the process. You should also ensure you have the correct paint and primer — you must use specialised solutions that have been specifically formulated for metal surfaces.
- Remove the door from the frame – When repainting your garage door, the process will run a lot smoother if your door is laid flat. Remove the door from its frame and place it on top of some dust sheets. This may require a drill and the assistance of another person.
- Clean the door – Next, the door must be cleaned to ensure a smooth finish. Wet a cloth with some degreaser and wipe the door to remove dirt and grime.
- Sand the door – To prepare your door for painting, gently rub it with a sanding block or light sandpaper to create a smooth surface for adhesion. This may take some physical effort, so be patient and wear a mask and goggles for protection.
- Reclean the door – Wipe down the door again with a damp cloth to eliminate any dust.
- Tape the door – To reduce mess and create a defined finish, use masking tape around the edges of the door frame.
- Apply metal primer – Primer prepares your garage door for painting to ensure better adhesion and a longer-lasting finish. Apply multiple coats, waiting 30-60 minutes between each layer.
- Apply paint – Arguably the most important step, begin to apply the paint. Use a paintbrush for the narrower sections and a roller for tackling larger, flat areas. You should let the first coat dry for around three hours before applying additional layers. Continue painting until your garage door is evenly coated.
- Rehang the door – Once your door is fully dry, carefully remount it in its correct position.
Garage doors can differ and these steps may not be applicable to your door. We recommended consulting with your manufacturer before attempting to paint your garage door.
When should you consider a new garage door?
Whilst repainting is often a cost-effective choice, if your garage door is showing signs of wear then it may be easier to opt for a new one. It’s also important to consider that once you paint your garage door, it can’t revert to the low-maintenance surface it was before. Periodic repainting is required to maintain its appearance and prevent the paint from deteriorating and looking worn. Therefore, choosing a full garage door replacement might be simpler, as this will provide a longer-lasting result and eliminate the need for constant repainting.
If you’re seeking a new steel garage door, Access Garage Doors can help. We have an extensive selection of garage doors available in a variety of styles and colours — you can even visit our Bradford showroom to view our products in person. Our friendly and experienced team can perform a quick and efficient garage door installation at properties across the West Yorkshire region, including Harrogate, Leeds and Skipton. Contact us for additional information or to book a free consultation.
