Your garage door is one of the first things people notice when they look at your home. Whether you’re refreshing your property’s curb appeal or protecting the door from weather damage, painting it the right way can make a big difference.
Here’s a simple guide to painting your garage door with a professional-looking finish.
Step 1: Choose the Right Paint and Tools
For a garage door, weather-resistant exterior paint is key. Use acrylic latex paint for metal or wooden doors. Make sure to buy a primer suited to your surface type (metal primer or wood primer).
Tools you’ll need:
Drop sheets or plastic sheeting
Painter’s tape
Sandpaper (medium grit)
Cleaning cloth and bucket
Paintbrush, roller, or paint sprayer
Primer and paint (satin or semi-gloss is ideal for garage doors)
Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Surface
Dirt, oil, or old flaky paint can prevent new paint from sticking. Wash the door thoroughly with water and mild detergent, then allow it to dry completely.
Lightly sand the surface to remove loose paint and roughen glossy areas. This step helps the primer and paint adhere better.
Step 3: Tape and Protect Surroundings
Use painter’s tape to cover trims, handles, or areas you don’t want painted. Lay drop sheets to protect your driveway or floor from drips and splashes.
Step 4: Prime the Garage Door
Apply a thin, even coat of primer, especially if the door is bare metal or wood. Let the primer dry fully (check the label for drying time). This step prevents rust and seals porous surfaces.
Step 5: Paint the Garage Door
Start with the edges and grooves using a paintbrush, then switch to a roller or sprayer for the larger flat areas. Always paint in sections, following the door’s natural panels or design.
Apply two coats of paint, letting each coat dry completely. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or windy weather, it can cause streaks or uneven drying.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the paint is dry, remove the tape and clean up. Inspect the surface for any missed spots or uneven areas and touch up if necessary.
Need Help with Painting Your Garage Door?
If all this sounds like too much work, or if you want a flawless, long-lasting finish, Number1 Painting is here to help! We offer professional painting services for homes, buildings, and of course, garage doors.
Whether you need expert advice, a quick quote, or a team to handle the job from start to finish, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today for a free consultation or any questions you may have!
