Garage doors are often overlooked in home improvement projects, but they can greatly enhance your home’s appeal. By giving your garage door a fresh coat of paint, you can greatly improve the look of your home from the street. Here’s how to paint your garage door:
materials needed:
- Paint (be sure to choose a paint designed for outdoor use)
- Brushes (one for large areas and one for smaller details)
- paint roller
- paint tray
- Painter’s tape
- Drape or plastic sheeting
- Sandpaper (medium grit)
- clean cloth
Step 1: Prepare
Before painting your garage door, it’s important to prepare the surface properly. Clean the garage door first with soap and water, then let it dry completely. Then, use medium-grit sandpaper to remove any loose paint and roughen the surface of the door. This will help the paint adhere better. Wipe the garage door with a clean cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Step 2: Closing the Tape
Using painters tape, carefully tape down any areas you don’t want to paint. This may include handles, hinges and windows. Be sure to cover any nearby surfaces with a rag or plastic sheet to prevent paint dripping or overspray.
Step 3: Priming
Using a paint roller and tray, apply a coat of primer to the garage door. This step is important because it helps the topcoat adhere better to the surface. Be sure to let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Paint
Apply a coat of paint to the garage door using a paintbrush on larger areas and a smaller brush on details. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for application and drying time of the paint. Two coats of paint are generally recommended to ensure proper coverage and a longer lasting finish.
Step 5: Dry
After applying the second coat of paint, allow the garage door to dry completely before removing painter’s tape or covering. This is usually about 24 hours.
Step 6: Retouching
Using a small brush, touch up any areas that may have been missed or need more coverage.
A freshly painted garage door can have a major impact on the overall look of your home. By following these steps, you can boost your home’s curb appeal without breaking the bank.