How do you paint an exterior wood door?

Painting an exterior wood door involves careful preparation and application to ensure a durable and attractive finish. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Preparation is Key

Before you even think about paint, preparation is vital. A properly prepared surface ensures the paint adheres well and lasts longer.

Remove the Door (Optional but Recommended): Taking the door off its hinges allows you to work on a flat surface, preventing drips and making the job easier. Lay it across sawhorses.
Remove the Hardware: Carefully remove all door hardware like knobs, handles, locks, and kick plates. This gives you a clean surface to work with and avoids getting paint on the hardware. Keep all the screws and pieces in a bag so nothing goes missing!

This step involves getting the door ready to receive the new paint.

Scrape Off Old Paint: Use a paint scraper to remove any loose or flaking paint. A heat gun can soften stubborn areas, but be careful not to scorch the wood.
Repair Cracks and Imperfections: Fill any cracks, dents, or holes with exterior-grade wood filler. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Sand the Door: Sand the entire door surface with medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit) to smooth out imperfections and create a slightly rough surface for the primer to adhere to. Follow with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) for a smoother finish. Remember to sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Clean the Door: Thoroughly remove all sanding dust with a tack cloth or a damp cloth. Make sure the door is completely dry before proceeding. You can also wipe it down with methylated spirits (denatured alcohol) to remove any lingering residue.

Primer is essential for sealing the wood and providing a good base for the paint.

Apply Primer: Use a high-quality exterior-grade primer specifically designed for wood. Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a brush or roller. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, especially around panels and moldings.
Let it Dry: Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Lightly Sand Again (Optional): Once the primer is dry, you can lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) to create an even smoother surface for the paint. Remember to remove all sanding dust.

Now for the color!

Choose Your Paint: Select a high-quality exterior paint specifically formulated for doors. Acrylic latex paints are a good choice for exterior wood doors due to their durability and weather resistance. Consider the desired sheen (gloss, semi-gloss, satin) as well. Higher gloss sheens are generally more durable and easier to clean.
Apply the First Coat: Apply a thin, even coat of paint using a brush or roller. Work in the direction of the wood grain. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to drips and runs.
Let it Dry: Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Apply the Second Coat: Apply a second coat of paint, again working in the direction of the wood grain. This will provide better coverage and durability.
Let it Dry Completely: Allow the second coat of paint to dry completely before reinstalling the hardware or re-hanging the door.

Reinstall Hardware: Carefully reinstall all the door hardware.
Re-Hang the Door: If you removed the door, carefully re-hang it on its hinges.
Inspect and Touch Up: Inspect the door for any imperfections or missed spots. Touch up as needed.

Use Quality Tools: Invest in good-quality brushes, rollers, and sandpaper.
Work in Good Weather: Avoid painting in direct sunlight or when it's raining.
Thin the Paint (If Necessary): If the paint is too thick, you can thin it slightly with water (for latex paints) or mineral spirits (for oil-based paints). Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Clean Your Brushes: Clean your brushes and rollers immediately after use.
Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Allow each coat of primer and paint to dry completely before proceeding.