Step-by-Step Front Door Painting and Staining Guide

• Screwdriver
• Pair of sawhorses
• Damp rag
• Mild detergent
• Safety glasses and dust mask
• Sandpaper (120-, 180- and 240-grit)
• Wood filler
• Primer
• Paint or stain
• Exterior varnish (if staining)
• Paintbrushes and rollers

Remove the Door:
If possible, use a screwdriver to remove the door from its hinges and place it on a pair of sawhorses. This makes it easier to work on all sides of the door.

Clean the Door:
Wipe down all surfaces of the door with a damp rag to remove any dust and dirt. For stubborn grime, use a mild detergent.

Sand the Door:
Put on safety glasses and dust mask. Sand the door with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any old finish and smooth out imperfections. Progress to finer grits (180 then 240) to achieve a smooth surface.

Fill Imperfections:

Use wood filler to fill any holes or cracks. Once the wood filler is dry, sand the filled areas smooth.

Opt for Quality:
Always use good quality paint, stain or sealer systems, and always follow the paint/stain manufacturer’s advice.

Consider Paint Type:
Pay particular attention to ‘internal’ vs ‘external’ paint, stain and coating systems, and use one that is appropriate to where you’re hanging the door. Never use automotive or two-pack paint on doors.

Select a Paint Colour:
Doors exposed to sunlight should be painted with light, reflective colours as dark colours absorb light and heat. Using dark colours may cause a drying effect on the door and could cause the door to warp, so the use of a light-coloured topcoat is essential.

Your paint supplier or paint manufacturer can advise you on the light reflective value (LRV) of paint colours. Choosing paint colours with an LRV of greater than 50 is a wise choice, and keep in mind that the finishing paint should be the same colour on all six sides of the door to prevent uneven heat and moisture absorption that causes warping.

Select a Stain:
If you’re staining the door, select a high-quality exterior stain that provides protection against the elements. Also consider that because stains are semi-transparent in nature, the LRV of stains can vary widely depending on the substrate it is applied to. If you choose to apply a darker stain to lighter timber doors, always follow the stain manufacturer’s instructions. The finishing stain should be the same colour on all six sides, as using different stains may cause the door to warp.

Paint the door:
If you’re painting the door, start with a primer to ensure better paint adhesion and durability. Apply a coat of primer and let it dry completely. Then use a high-quality exterior paint and start with the door panels, then move to the rails and stiles. Apply at least two coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a brush for detailed areas and a roller for flat surfaces, and lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish.

Stain the Door:
If you’re staining the door, stir the stain thoroughly before use then apply it with a brush, following the direction of the wood grain. Ensure even coverage and avoid drips. After applying the stain, wipe off any excess with a clean cloth to ensure an even finish. For a richer colour, apply additional coats of stain, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Once the stain is dry, apply a clear exterior varnish to protect the finish and enhance durability

Inspect the Finish:
Check for any missed spots or uneven areas and touch up as needed.

Reattach the Hardware:
Once the finish is fully dry, reattach the door hardware and hang the door back on its hinges.

Enjoy Your New Door:
Step back and admire your handiwork. Your freshly painted or stained door will not only look great but also provide lasting protection against the elements.