How to Paint a Metal Front Door

Prepare the Door

Start by preparing the metal door for painting. Remove any hardware such as doorknobs, handles, or hinges using a screwdriver if necessary.

Clean the Door

Thoroughly clean the door to remove dirt, dust, grease, or any other contaminants that could affect paint adhesion. 

Sand the Surface

Using medium-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the metal door’s surface. This step helps create a rough texture for better paint adhesion.

Remove Dust

To ensure a clean surface, use a tack cloth to wipe away any sanding dust. The tack cloth will pick up fine particles and leave the surface ready for priming.

Apply Primer

Using a synthetic bristle or foam brush, apply a coat of primer suitable for metal surfaces. Begin by painting the recessed or detailed areas first, then move on to the larger flat surfaces.

Paint the Door

Now it’s time to paint the metal door. Stir the exterior paint thoroughly with a paint stirrer. Use a synthetic bristle or foam brush to paint the recessed or detailed areas first, followed by the larger flat surfaces.

Apply Additional Coats

Depending on the desired color and coverage, you may need to apply additional coats of paint. Allow each coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the next one.

Reinstall Hardware

Once the final coat of paint has dried, reattach the hardware to the door using a screwdriver. Take care not to scratch the freshly painted surface.

Clean Up

Properly dispose of any used paint cans, brushes, or other materials according to your local regulations.