Clean and Prepare the Garage Door Surface
Before painting, it’s important to properly clean and prepare the garage door surface:
- Use a wire brush attachment on a power drill to scrub away any loose or peeling paint. This will help the new paint adhere properly.
- Wash the garage door with a power washer if needed to remove dirt, grease and mildew. Allow the surface to fully dry.
- Sand the garage door lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to help the paint stick. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.
- Apply a high-quality primer to any bare wood or metal to help the topcoat of paint stick and prevent future rusting or rotting. Allow the primer to dry completely before painting.
- Use painter’s tape to cover handles, hinges or any hardware you don’t want to get paint on. Also mask off any windows or trim with tape.
Choose a Durable Exterior Paint
Pick an exterior paint designed specifically for garage doors:
- A high-quality latex or oil-based paint will hold up better than regular wall paints. Look for one with a semi-gloss or gloss sheen.
- Enamel paints provide a super durable and glossy finish able to withstand the elements.
- Make sure the paint has UV-resistant properties to prevent fading.
- Darker colors or metallic paints can help hide dents and scratches better.
- Buy more paint than you think you’ll need to account for multiple coats.
Apply the Paint in Thin, Even Coats
The key is applying multiple thin coats of paint versus one thick coat:
- Use a paintbrush to neatly cut-in around the edges and paint any hard-to-reach areas first. Allow to dry before continuing.
- Use a roller with a thick nap (3/4″ – 1″) to quickly apply an even coat of paint over the center panels. Add paint as needed and work in sections.
- Allow each coat to fully dry before adding another (usually 2-4 hours between coats). Sand lightly between coats if needed.
- Apply at least 2-3 coats, or more if necessary, until you achieve full color coverage.
- Finished coats should be free of drips, uneven coverage or brush marks. Add additional coats if needed to cover flaws.
Apply Paint to All Surfaces
To look new, paint must cover the entire door including these areas:
- The center garage door panels (the largest areas)
- Inside the grooved sections if your door has decorative grooves
- Inside the glass window frames if your door has windows
- The vertical and horizontal supports behind the center panels
- The interior sides of the door
- The exterior trim and framing around the garage door
Add New Hardware and Sealants
To complete the look:
- Install new garage door handles and hinges if the old ones are very worn. Spray paint them first if needed.
- Apply fresh weatherseal striping along the bottom of the door if the old seal is damaged. This prevents drafts.
- Caulk around the trim, corners and vertical joints using a paintable exterior caulk. This provides extra moisture protection.
Following these steps on properly preparing, painting and sealing your garage door can make it look bright, fresh and like new again! Proper prep work and using durable exterior paints will help your new paint job last for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for garage door paint to dry?
With proper conditions, garage door paint dries in 2-4 hours between coats. Cooler temperatures or higher humidity can prolong drying time. Always allow each coat to fully dry before adding another.
What kind of paint should be used on a garage door?
High-quality exterior grade latex or oil-based paints designed for garage doors provide the most durable finish. Look for paint with UV protection.
Can you use a sprayer to paint a garage door?
Yes, you can use a paint sprayer but it still requires back-brushing to properly cover grooves and ridges. Pay attention to overspray.
How do you paint garage door windows?
Use painter’s tape to mask off glass panes before painting. For inside the frames, use a small brush to neatly cut-in around the glass. Avoid getting paint on the glass.
Should you paint the inside of a garage door?
Yes, painting the inside provides added protection. Use exterior paint or special interior garage paint for coverage against tire marks and scuffs.
Conclusion
With some elbow grease and the proper painting techniques, you can make your worn garage door look brand new again. Preparing the surface thoroughly and using long-lasting exterior paint designed for garage doors will allow you to completely change the look of your home’s exterior. Just be sure to allow proper drying time between multiple coats. Your freshly painted garage door will look attractive and offer great curb appeal.