Painting your storm door is one of the easiest ways to refresh your home’s exterior curb appeal. While a storm door may seem minor, the front door is often the first thing guests see when they visit your home. With a few affordable supplies and just a few hours of time, you can transform your storm door from shabby to sharp.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to paint storm door. From power washing to priming to the final coats of paint, I’ll cover all the essential techniques and tips to ensure your DIY storm door makeover is a breeze.
So grab your tools and materials, and let’s start this affordable and impactful home improvement project together!
What Will You Need?
Before we jump into the painting process, let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to paint your storm door:
- Power washer or garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment
- Mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner
- Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloth or old bedsheet
- Primer
- Paint (exterior paint recommended)
- Paintbrushes (2-inch and 1-inch)
- Small foam roller
Once you have all your supplies gathered, it’s time to start prepping your storm door for a fresh coat of paint.
8 Easy Steps on How to Paint Storm Door
Step 1: Prepare Your Storm Door
Before we begin painting, we need to prep the surface of the storm door. This step is crucial because it ensures that the paint will adhere properly and result in a smooth, professional-looking finish. First, remove your storm door from its hinges and lay it flat on a secure and level surface. Use your power washer or garden hose to clean off dirt and debris.
A mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner should do the trick if there’s stubborn grime. Once the door is clean, allow it to dry completely. Then, use 120-grit sandpaper to lightly scuff up the door’s surface, which will help the primer and paint stick. Wipe down the door with a damp cloth to remove any dust from the sanding, and let it dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Apply Painter’s Tape
Once your storm door is dry and sanded, it’s time to apply painter’s tape to the areas you don’t want to paint. This generally includes the door handle and lock, the glass windows if your storm door has them, and the edges where the door will meet the door frame.
Carefully apply the painter’s tape, making sure it adheres well to the surface. This will create a precise edge and protect these areas from unwanted paint. Consider using a utility knife to trim the painter’s tape for a perfect fit. Once you’re done, you’re ready to apply the primer.
Step 3: Prime the Door
The next step in painting your storm door is applying a primer coat. Priming is vital to achieving a smooth, even finish and will also help to conceal any stains or discolorations on the door’s surface. Using a 2-inch paintbrush, apply the primer in even strokes, starting from the top and working your way down.
Be careful to smooth out any drips or thick areas of primer as you go. Once you’ve covered the entire surface, allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the product instructions and weather conditions.
Step 4: Sand the Primed Door
After the primer has thoroughly dried, it’s time to smooth the surface with sandpaper. Use 220-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire surface of the door. This helps smooth out brush strokes or drips from the primer and creates an ideal surface for the paint to adhere to. Be sure to thoroughly wipe off any sanding dust with a damp cloth and let the door dry completely before moving on to the next step. Remember, preparation is vital when learning how to paint a storm door.
Step 5: Paint the Door
Now comes the exciting part – adding color! Shake your paint can well before opening to ensure the color is mixed correctly. Begin by using a 1-inch paintbrush to cut in around the edges of your storm door, the same areas where you applied painter’s tape. Then, using a small foam roller, fill in the larger flat areas of the door. This will help to prevent brush strokes and give a smooth finish.
Apply the paint in thin, even coats. It’s better to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to achieve a smooth, professional finish. As per the manufacturer’s instructions, allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Typically, two coats of exterior paint are sufficient, but you may need more if you’re making a drastic color change.
Step 6: Apply a Second Coat
After the first coat of paint is completely dry, it’s time to apply a second one. This is done to ensure an even coverage and richer color. Use your brush again to cut in around the edges and the roller for the flat parts of the door. Remember to apply the paint thinly, even in strokes, to avoid creating streaks or bubbles. Allow this second coat to dry thoroughly according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions, which could take several hours or even overnight.
If the color isn’t as rich or even as you’d like after two coats, you can apply a third one, following the same process. When you’re finished painting and satisfied with the result, let the door dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 7: Remove the Painter’s Tape
Once your final coat of paint is completely dry, it’s time to remove the painter’s tape. Begin to peel back the tape slowly and carefully at a 45-degree angle. If any areas show signs of resistance, you can use a utility knife to gently score along the edge of the video, preventing the paint from peeling off. Be patient and meticulous during this process to ensure a clean and sharp edge. With the painter’s tape removed, your storm door’s new color will genuinely pop.
Step 8: Reattach the Door
The final step in painting your storm door is reattaching it to its frame. Ensure the paint is fully dry to avoid scratches or smudges during the installation. Using the necessary tools, carefully position the door back onto its hinges. Secure it with the appropriate screws and ensure it swings open and closed properly. Lastly, reattach the door handle and any other hardware you removed during the painting. Congratulations, you’ve successfully painted your storm door!
By following these steps, you can give your storm door a fresh and updated look while saving money by not having to replace it.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Select the Right Paint: For metal storm doors, choose a paint designed for metal surfaces. For wooden storm doors, you can use latex or oil-based paint.
- Do Not Rush Preparation: Before painting, thoroughly clean the door and sand off any old paint or rust. This ensures a smooth and clean surface for the paint to adhere to.
- Paint in the Right Conditions: Try to paint your storm door on a dry, calm day. Too much humidity can affect the paint dries, and wind can carry dust and debris onto your wet paint.
- Multiple Thin Coats Are Better Than One Thick One: Applying numerous thin coats of paint results in a smoother, more professional-looking finish. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
- Keep Your Storm Door Open While Painting: To paint the edges of your storm door, prop it open with something sturdy, like a block of wood or a stack of books. This will allow you to reach all areas and prevent smudging or drips easily.
With these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be able to paint your storm door like a pro! Remember to take your time, follow the proper steps, and use high-quality materials for the best results.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Using the Wrong Brushes or Rollers: Different brushes or rollers may be required depending on the type of paint you use. Using the wrong tools can lead to a poor paint job and unnecessary frustration.
- Don’t Skip Primer: Skipping this step might seem tempting, but the prime application is crucial for attaining a smooth, even finish and helps the paint stick to the surface better.
- Avoid Painting Over Damaged Areas: Address issues like rust, dents, or scratches before painting. Painting over these areas can lead to an uneven finish and cause the damage to worsen over time.
- Don’t Rush the Drying Process: After painting your storm door, it’s essential to let it dry thoroughly. Hurrying this process can lead to smudging or chipping.
- Avoid Disregarding Safety Precautions: Always protect yourself by wearing the proper gear, like gloves, goggles, and a mask to prevent inhalation of fumes. Also, ensure the area is well-ventilated when painting. Avoiding safety precautions can lead to unnecessary health risks.
Avoiding these common mistakes can ensure a successful and professional-looking paint job on your storm door.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to paint storm door may seem like a simple task, but it requires careful preparation and execution to achieve the best results. With the right tools and techniques, such as sanding, priming, and choosing the appropriate paint, you can transform your old and dull storm door into a beautiful and vibrant entrance for your home. Remember to take your time and follow each step carefully to ensure smooth and long-lasting results.
So, don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity and experiment with different colors or styles. With these tips in mind, you are now ready to tackle any storm door painting project confidently!
Thank you for joining us on this journey of transforming our old storm door into something new and refreshing. Happy painting!
