How to Paint a Panel Door

When first entering a house, or even a room for that matter, the first object seen is the panel door. When you have a panel door, no matter what style it is, numerous things can be done in order to improve the appearance and attractiveness of it. For instance, painting the door two or three different, but complementary, colors will make an eye piece that any homeowner would be proud of. The fact of the matter is that anyone can paint a door by following a few simple steps. There really is no need to hire a professional. Instead, follow the steps below and create your own masterpiece that will be the envy of all your family and friends.

Items Needed Before Beginning This Project:

• Hammer

• Punch

• Two or three colors of paint

• Good quality paint brushes

• Good quality paint rollers

• Painter's masking tape

• Fine cut sandpaper

• Screwdriver

• Pair of sawhorses

STEP 1: Remove the Hardware

The first thing that needs to be done is to take the door knobs off, as well as any deadbolts or other locking mechanisms that are present. With the door slightly open, use the hammer and punch to take the pins out of the hinges. Do not take the hinges off of the door because it can be very hard to get them lined back up perfectly, and often times the screws will lose their tightening ability if you take them out. Instead, after the pins have been taken out, place the door across the pair of sawhorses and use painter's tape to cover the hinges that are left attached to the door. Be sure to use a razor blade, or a pair of scissors, when cutting the tape to ensure that the edges are straight. This will prevent the paint from bleeding through any bubbles onto the hinges.

STEP 2: Prepare the Door

Use very fine cut sandpaper to make the door smooth. The point of this step is to eliminate any bumps, stains, or previous drips, not to sand the door down to bare wood or metal. If there are any holes in the door, such as nail holes or dents from being slammed around, then use some type of filler before sanding. Basic putty works perfect for small imperfections, while larger holes and dents may require specific fillers designed for this type of application. Be sure to prepare both sides, as well as all the edges. Keep in mind that the quality of the finished product begins with perfect preparation. Any blemishes, dents, or bumps that are not sanded out during this stage will show through the new paint. After sanding, be sure to clean the door with a damp rag, making sure that all loose particles are wiped off.

STEP 3: Paint the Main Panel

After all the prep work is done, and the door has completely dried from being washed, the painting can begin. First though, tape off all the sections that you want to be a different color, such as the center pieces between the main panels. Use a roller to paint the main portions of the door. If you prefer the look of brush stokes to roller marks, then feel free to use a brush on the main sections after the roller has been used. Be sure to use adequate paint when using the roller, as well as even pressure throughout the painting process. This will ensure uniform coverage, preventing any light or dark spots. Allow this coat of paint to dry completely, following the guidelines on the paint used, before continuing on. If the door needs another coat of paint be sure to continue using the techniques discussed above. Do both sides of the door in this fashion, as well as all the edges, being sure to allow amble time in between coats for drying. Remove any tape after the panels have completely dried, following the suggestions of time found on the paint cans used.

STEP 4: Paint the Inner Panels and Trim

After the main panels are painted, and completely dry, a decision has to be made. If the panel door being painted is an entrance door that cannot be left off for very long, then it can now be hung back up. If it is an inside door, then it can be hung or left on the sawhorses, depending upon your personal preferences. Either way, the next step in the painting process is the inner panels and the decorative pieces in the center of the door. Use painter's tape and run a solid piece along the edges that need to be painted, inside and out. Use a pair of scissors or a razor blade to ensure that the tape is cut squarely, and make sure to press the tape down firmly onto the surrounding surface so that the paint being applied does not bleed into the areas that you have already painted. Begin painting by using a good quality brush that is slightly angled, making it easier to paint any angles that you may find. Start from the top and work your way down, making sure that any drips are immediately spread evenly with the brush. Complete the painting project with as many coats as needed, and then allow all areas to dry before taking the tape off.

Painting a panel door can be a rewarding experience, and will give your house the personality and appearance that you want. By taking some time, buying the right tools and equipment, and handling the painting job correctly, anyone can paint a panel door.