May 15, 2017

What Is the Proper Way to Paint Interior Doors?

While it may seem more convenient to paint the inside of a door while it is still affixed to its hinges, it is better to take the door off the fittings and remove the hardware and knobs. Lay the door flat for the best paint results. By using this method, you can apply the paint more quickly and avoid any paint sags or drips.

Clean the Door First after Taking It off Its Hinges

Use two sawhorses to lay the door flat. Before you paint the door, clean off the dirt from it, as you do not want to paint over dust and grime. Cleaning the door first will ensure that the primer will hold to the old paint. In fact, washing the door is important if you want to ensure adhesion. Even high-quality paint will not adhere well if the surface is marred with oil or dirt. To clean the door, use a full-strength household cleaner. Then let it dry.

Get Rid of Any Unsightly Marks

Scrape off any flakes on the door or build-up of paint. While you might think that the new covering will conceal scratches and dents, think again. In fact, the opposite is true. New paint often underscores any flaws. So, fill in any demarcations that are small with a spackling-type compound. For deeper markings, use an epoxy filler.

Why Priming Is Important

Unless the old paint is in pristine shape, you need to add a primer before painting the door. A primer should be used because it neutralizes dark colors, prevents stains, and helps the new finish adhere properly. A primer also seals the fillers so that the top coat of paint looks smoother and more attractive. So, when you add the primer, apply the finish to the entire door. Otherwise, you will make the top coat of paint appear splotchy. Use a white-colored primer for white paint and a grayish-tinted primer for other colors of paint.

Sand and Clean Off the Sandpaper Dust

Between coats of paint, lightly sand the whole door with 180-grit sandpaper. Use a sponge designed for sanding in the areas of the door that are shaped. After sanding, wipe the door with a moist cloth to remove the dust.

Why Foam Rollers Are Preferred

If you want to avoid brush marks when painting the door, then you cannot use a brush. Instead, use a mini-roller that is made of foam. This way, you can apply the paint smoothly and without any resulting bumps. Bumps are often seen when using a nap type of paint roller. Also, high-density foam rollers feature rounded ends. Therefore, they allow you to apply paint in niches and corners without the worry of leaving behind any scrapes.

Apply Two Coats of Paint

When you do use a brush, direct it around the panels of the door before employing the foam roller. Foam rollers should be used for both the primer and paint. You will need to apply two coats, however, as foam mini-rollers spread thinner coats of paint than regular rollers or brushes.

Selecting a Paint

When it comes to a paint, use environmentally-friendly solvents with a low level of smell and toxins. While this type of paint is usually more expensive, it also dries quickly and is good for the indoor environment. Wait a day or two before re-hanging your newly painted door.

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