How To Paint A Steel Exterior Door?

Painting a steel exterior door is a simple yet effective way to refresh the look of your home. Whether you want to enhance curb appeal or protect your door from the elements, a fresh coat of paint can make a significant difference. But, how to paint a steel exterior door? This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve a smooth, professional finish on your steel door in Atkinson.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Remove the Door

Place a screwdriver underneath the head of the hinge pin and tap it with a hammer until you can pull it out. Do this with the remaining hinges, and then remove the door.

Once you’ve removed the door from its hinges, remove any weatherstripping that can be detached. This will give you easier access to the door’s surfaces. Carefully cover any remaining hardware that cannot be removed with painter’s tape.

Step 2: Thoroughly Clean the Door with a Degreaser

Cleaning the door is a critical step in exterior painting to ensure the paint adheres properly. Using a degreasing cleaner, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to wash the entire surface of the door.

Pay close attention to any areas that may have accumulated dirt, grease, or residue, as these can prevent the paint from sticking effectively. Once the door has been thoroughly cleaned, use a towel to dry it completely.

Step 4: Lightly Sand the Door for a Better Surface

Before you begin painting, it’s important to lightly sand the door to create a slightly roughened surface that will help the new paint adhere better. Focus on areas where the old paint may be peeling or chipping, as well as any smooth surfaces that need to be roughened slightly.

A light sanding is usually sufficient to achieve the desired effect. Remember to remove all dust and debris that has been left behind.

Step 5: Apply Primer

Priming the door is essential to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. If the door’s surface is smooth, use a short-nap roller to apply an even layer of primer across the entire surface.

For doors with recessed panels, start by applying primer with a small brush to the inside panels first. Next, use the roller to apply primer to the vertical sections between the panels, the horizontal sections between the panels, and the outer edges of the door.

Step 6: Apply Two Coats of Paint

After the primer has dried completely, it’s time to apply the paint. Choose an exterior satin or semi-gloss paint for a durable and attractive finish. Apply the first coat of paint using the same technique as the primer. Allow the paint to dry fully according to the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying a second coat.

The next morning, apply the second coat of paint, ensuring that each layer dries completely before you proceed. Continue this process until all required coats have been applied, leaving your steel exterior door with a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

Step 7: Rehang the Door and Final Touches

Once the paint has fully dried, carefully peel away the painter’s tape from the door and surrounding areas. Next, reattach any hardware or weatherstripping that was removed earlier in the process. Finally, rehang the door by aligning it with the hinges and gently tapping the hinge pins back into place.