Should I paint my garage door? It’s an age-old question that doesn’t really have a good answer. According to Jim Norman of Overhead Door Company of Central Jersey, “Whether it’s steel or wood, a garage door can be vastly improved with a simple coat of high-quality paint, however, it’s important to match the paint to the product. Many garage doors use vinyl or other plastics as part of their construction and the improper paint can do more harm than good”. While some residential garage doors can be painted, other garage door materials may not benefit, even from a good paint job.
Carriage House Style Garage Door
Tips for Painting Your Garage Door
Follow these tips to paint your garage door and make the most of your fresh coat:
1. Get the Area Ready
Before you start painting, prepare the surroundings. Clean up any flaky or chipped paint and keep the area tidy. Use tape to cover parts you don't want to paint and protect nearby plants with a cloth or plastic cover. Lay down a drop cloth or plastic under the door to catch any paint drips and prevent them from sticking to your driveway.
2. Clean and Sand
Make sure the garage door is clean before you paint. Use a good degreasing agent or natural cleaner to remove dirt and grease. Let the door dry, then lightly sand it with fine sandpaper to roughen up the surface. Remove any loose paint chips, but don't worry about removing all the old paint. You just need to rough it up a bit so the new paint sticks well.
3. Prime and Paint
Before you buy garage door paint, figure out what kind of paint is already on your residential garage door and what material it's made of (wood, steel, or plastic). This will help you choose the right paint. Use an oil-based primer and paint if the door already has oil-based paint on it. Otherwise, acrylic primer and latex or acrylic paint will do the job. For plastic doors, make sure to use paint that's made specifically for plastic. Apply at least three coats of paint, with at least four hours of drying time between coats, for a smooth and durable finish.
4. Additional Tips and Tricks
Spraying the paint right on is the preferable option. But if you can't, use a small roller to roll it on instead. Avoid using a bristled paintbrush because it often leaves lines and marks you don't want.
Spray Painting is the Best Painting Option for Garage Doors
Ensure that when painting your garage door, you pick a time when it's not directly under the blazing sun. Excessive heat can lead to the paint drying too quickly, which might spell trouble for your final coat.
→ Beware of Lead Paint!
If your garage was constructed before 1978, there's a chance it has lead-based paint. Before you begin any sanding or scraping, it's crucial to check for lead paint. Handling this paint requires special precautions to prevent contamination. Dust and chips can pose serious health risks, especially for children.
By heeding this warning, you'll be well on your way to keeping your garage door in top condition.
In the realm of home improvement, the question of whether to paint your garage door is a timeless dilemma. Jim Norman from Overhead Door Company of Central Jersey highlights the importance of choosing the right paint for your door material to ensure optimal results. With his insight and the practical painting tips provided, transforming your garage door can be a straightforward and rewarding project.
If you're still uncertain or seeking expert guidance tailored to your specific needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to offer professional advice and assistance, ensuring that your garage door receives the care it deserves. Contact us today to embark on your painting journey and elevate the curb appeal of your home.
→ Suggested Article: Annual Preventive Maintenance for Your Garage Door ←
