Paint a Front Door Like a Pro

Overview

• Repainting an exterior door to restore colour, weather protection and kerb appeal.

 Skill level: 3 (out of 5) – confident DIYer.

• Typical duration: 3 – 6 hands‑on hours (split over drying intervals).

Safety First

1. Lead paint dust on older doors – wear a P2 respirator if sanding suspected lead coatings.

2. Solvent fumes from primers and topcoats – ventilate and use a mask suitable for organic vapours.

3. Sharp tools & splinters – use cut‑resistant gloves when removing hardware or sanding.

4. Trip hazards – keep dust sheets flat and clear away loose tools.

5. Weather exposure – choose a dry, still day; rain or wind‑blown debris can ruin wet paint.
   

Tools & Materials

Step‑by‑Step

1. Prepare the Area

Why: Clean, protected surroundings prevent mess and ensure a professional finish.

2. Remove or Mask Hardware, Then Degrease

Why: Oils and grime stop paint bonding; free hardware avoids messy edges.

3. Sand and Repair

Why: Keying the surface and filling damage give the new coat a flat, lasting base.

4. Prime Bare Timber or Filler

Why: Primer seals porous areas and stops tannin bleed through the topcoat.

5. Apply First Topcoat

Why: Forms the colour foundation and weather barrier.

6. De‑nib & Add Second Coat

Why: Light sanding between coats removes dust nibs and boosts durability.

7. Refit Hardware & Allow Full Cure

Why: Hardware protects edges; proper curing prevents fingerprints.

Completion Checks

• Colour is uniform with no thin patches or brush marks.

• Door edges and rebates are fully coated.

• Hardware sits flush, operates freely and has no paint residue.

• Door opens and closes without sticking to the frame.

• Paint surface feels dry to the touch and resists a gentle nail press.
  

When to Call a Pro Instead

If the door has significant rot, ornate glazing, existing lead‑based paint, or you need a spray‑quality finish with specialised equipment, hire a professional decorator who can strip, repair and repaint under controlled conditions.