How to Paint a Steel Door
Many homeowners choose metal security doors instead of wood or glass to create added security to their homes. Most security doors are made from steel because it is a strong and fireproof metal. Metal doors can become rusty, especially when exposed to the elements. It is good to periodically prime and paint the door to protect the steel.
Tools:
- Oil Primer (spray is optimal)
- Oil Paint
- Painters mask
- Screwdriver
- Two saw horses
- Rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner
- Rags and scrub pads
- Sand sponge
- Bondo or other metal filler
- Paint scraper
- Razor blade
- Unscrew the door from the frame to remove the door.
- Remove all of the hardware, like the hinges, the strike plates, weather stripping, and handles. Apply tape over hardware if you cannot remove hardware.
- Place the door flat onto the sawhorses to give you a work space up and off of the ground.
- Remove excessive dirt and grime using a paint scraper and a razor blade. It is important to scrub away all of the dirt with alcohol and/or glass cleaner.
- Sand the entire door smooth to roughen up the original paint as this allows the primer to successful stick to the metal. Use a clean dry rag to remove the sanding dust. Sand extra in the dents and nicks, rinse off any grit, and apply Bondo into the dents according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spray primer around the outside perimeter of the door, including the edges, and then spray primer onto the front of the door, allow to dry. Flip the door over on the sawhorses, and repeat by spraying primer on the back side. Select a spray-paint primer for better results than primer from a can.
- Purchase oil based spray paint or an oil based paint from a can. If you choose spray paint, wear a mask during painting. Apply paint around the perimeter of the door, then spray or brush the entire door to reduce unsightly flashing. Allow paint to dry and repeat the backside. Applying primer and paint to the perimeter first reduces flashing and improves adherence.
- Paint the frame of the door for best results and added attractive congruency.
- Assemble all of the door hardware including weather stripping to the door, and reattach the door to the frame.