How to Stain a Steel Door
Some homeowners who have steel doors on their home replace them when they start to fade, which is an unnecessary expense. The door can be easily made to look as good as new by simply applying a coat of stain on it.
Staining a steel door is a process you can easily do yourself.
- Mix some warm water and mild dishwashing detergent of your choice in a five-gallon bucket.
- Dip a sponge into the soapy water and use it to thoroughly wash the door.
- Dip the sponge in clean water and use it to rinse the soap off the door.
- Allow the door at least two hours to completely dry.
- Place a drop cloth underneath the door to protect the floor.
- Use masking tape to cover the hardware, doorknob and window in the door.
- Use a 100-grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface of the door. This should be done because it will allow the stain to adhere better.
- Pour some oil-based primer into a paint rolling pan.
- Dip your paint roller into the pan and apply the primer to the surface of the door. Make sure you cover the entire door. You may need to use a small paintbrush to get to the crevices.
- Allow the primer at least 24 hour to completely dry.
- Rinse the primer out of the paint tray and fill it with the stain you have chosen to use.
- Dip your clean paint roller into the paint and apply it to the surface of the door.
- Allow the stain to dry overnight.