Interior & Exterior Doors

trim and door exterior home painted ann arbor MI

Professional door painting and refinishing can add beauty and value to your home. It is important to select a professional contractor who has experience in both interior and exterior door painting and refinishing. The contractor should be able to provide you with a portfolio of his or her work.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right color for your doors. You will want to take into account the overall color scheme of your home, as well as the style of your doors. If you have stained glass panels in your doors, you will want to be sure that the paint colors complement the stained glass.

The type of finish you choose for your doors is also an important consideration. A high-gloss finish will show fingerprints and smudges more easily than a semi-gloss or satin finish. If you have young children or pets, you may want to choose a semi-gloss or satin finish for easier cleaning.

Once you have selected the perfect color and finish for your doors, the next step is to prepare them for painting or refinishing. This involves sanding down the doors to remove any existing paint or stain, as well as any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time. Once the doors are sanded, they should be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any residual dust before painting or staining begins.

Take a look at some of the doors we’ve recently worked on and give us a call if you’d like to get a free quote for your project.

Expert Tips For Painting Interior And Exterior Doors

Painting interior and exterior doors in Ann Arbor, MI can be a simple and cost-effective way to refresh and update the appearance of your home. However, achieving a professional finish requires more than slapping on some paint. It requires attention to detail, proper preparation, and expert techniques. As your friend and neighbor, we at Lang’s Painting want to share a few pro secrets from our experienced painters for achieving a flawless and professional finish when painting interior and exterior doors.

Interior Door Painting Tips:

  • Clean and prep the door: Before starting the painting process, it’s crucial to clean the door thoroughly and remove any dirt, dust, or grime. Surfaces can be cleaned with mild detergents or water and vinegar solutions. If the door has imperfections, such as dents or scratches, fill them with wood filler and smooth them. Finally, create a smooth and even surface for painting by sanding the entire door.

  • Remove hardware or mask it off: To achieve a clean and professional finish, it’s best to remove the door hardware, such as knobs, locks, and hinges, before painting. If removing the hardware is impossible, mask it off with painter’s tape to protect it from paint splatters or drips. Avoid damaging or peeling the paint by removing the tape before it dries.

  • Apply primer for better adhesion: Applying a coat of primer before painting can greatly improve paint adhesion and help the paint to last longer. Choose a primer suitable for the type of door you are painting, whether it’s wood, metal, or laminate. Paint should be applied after the primer has dried completely.

  • Paint with smooth and even strokes: When applying the paint, use smooth and even strokes in the direction of the wood grain or door design. Overloading your brush or roller with paint can result in drips, streaks, or uneven results. Before applying the next coat, let the previous coat dry completely. A thin coat is better than a thick one.

  • Sand between coats: To achieve an ultra-smooth finish, consider sanding the door lightly between coats of paint. Sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove imperfections or brush marks. Apply the next coat of paint to the surface after it has been thoroughly cleaned after sanding.

  • Pay attention to edges and corners: Doors have edges and corners that are often overlooked but can affect the overall appearance of the paint job. Be sure to paint the edges and corners carefully, using a brush or a small roller. Avoid leaving any drips or streaks, and use a steady hand for a professional finish.

Exterior Door Painting Tips:

Clean and prep the door: Just like interior doors, proper cleaning, and preparation are crucial for achieving a professional finish on exterior doors. Use a mild detergent to remove dirt, dust, or debris from the surface. Sand the smooth surface if any existing paint is peeling or flaking. Repair any cracks, holes, or imperfections before painting.

  • Sand the surface for better adhesion: A smoother finish can be achieved by sanding the exterior door before painting. First, sand the entire door surface with medium- to fine-grit sandpaper, including the edges and corners. Sanding will remove rough spots, create a smooth surface, and help the paint bond well to the door.

  • Use a primer for added protection: Applying a primer on exterior doors is essential for protecting the door from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Choose a primer specifically formulated for exterior use and compatible with the type of door material, whether it’s wood, metal, or fiberglass. The primer also ensures a longer-lasting finish and better adhesion of the paint.

  • Choose the right paint for exterior use: Exterior doors require a durable paint that can withstand the elements. Choose a high-quality exterior paint specifically formulated for doors or trim and is resistant to moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes. Consider the type of door material when choosing the paint, as different materials may require different types of paint.

  • Apply paint with proper technique: When painting exterior doors, it’s important to use the right technique for a professional finish. Use a high-quality brush or roller, and apply the paint with smooth and even strokes toward the wood grain or door design. Paint drips, or streaks can be caused by overloading a brush or roller with paint. The paint should be applied thinly, and each coat should be allowed to dry completely before the next one is applied.

  • Pay attention to details: Exterior doors have edges, corners, and intricate designs that require attention to detail. Use a smaller or trim brush to paint these areas carefully, and avoid leaving any drips, streaks, or missed spots. Take your time and be patient, as proper detailing can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of the door.

  • Seal and protect the painted door: Apply a clear sealer or varnish to the painted surface after it has dried completely to protect it from moisture and UV rays. This will help the paint last longer and maintain its fresh appearance.

As you can see, painting interior and exterior doors requires proper preparation, high-quality materials, and attention to detail to achieve a professional finish. Following these expert tips, such as cleaning and prepping the door, using primer, choosing the right paint, applying paint with proper technique, paying attention to details, considering weather conditions, and sealing and protecting the painted door, can help you achieve a flawless and long-lasting finish that will enhance the overall look of your home. 

If you need help with any of these steps, give the team at Lang’s Painting a call!

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