how to paint commercial metal door

How to Paint Commercial Metal Door: A Complete Guide From Pros

Knowing how to paint a commercial metal door is essential for maintaining its durability, security, and professional appearance. Over time, the paint on metal doors can fade, scratch, or peel, making it necessary to apply a fresh coat. Regularly repainting helps protect the door from rust and weather damage, ensuring it continues to perform well and look great.

Commercial metal doors are built to withstand tough conditions and can last for decades, but the paint covering them won’t last as long. Properly maintaining these doors with periodic repainting ensures they remain a functional and attractive part of your property.

If you’re dealing with a metal door for business use, preparation is the key to success. From cleaning and sanding to selecting the right paint, this process isn’t overly complicated and can often be tackled as a DIY painting project for steel doors.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Paint Commercial Metal Door 

Explore our Step-By-Step Guide on How to Paint a Commercial Metal Door and give it a refreshed, polished look. Learn effective techniques for painting industrial steel doors, restoring commercial entry doors, and maintaining metal security doors to ensure long-lasting durability and weather resistance. But remember that for complicated tasks such as door services including installation, repair, or maintenance you might need to contact a professional handyman.

Step 1: Take the Door Off Its Hinges  

Before starting, be prepared for this project to take a few days, depending on drying times and weather conditions. If removing the door isn’t an option due to security concerns, you can paint it in place, but the process may take longer.

If removal is possible, use a screwdriver and hammer to loosen and remove the hinge pins. Once all pins are out, carefully lift the door off the hinges.

Step 2: Prepare the Door and Protect Non-Paintable Areas 

Place the door on two sawhorses or a sturdy, flat surface. Remove any weatherstripping or hardware that can be detached. Use painter’s tape to cover any hinges, windows, or kickplates that you cannot remove. For added protection, cover glass or metal areas with newspaper or plastic sheeting.

Step 3: Clean the Door Thoroughly 

Using a degreasing cleaner, wash the entire door surface, following the product’s instructions. Dry the door completely with a clean towel to ensure no residue remains.

Step 4: Sand the Surface 

Wear protective goggles and a dust mask while lightly sanding the door with fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block. This step will create a slightly rough surface for better paint adhesion and remove any loose or flaking paint.

Step 5: Eliminate Dust and Debris 

After sanding, wipe the entire door with a clean, damp cloth to remove all dust and debris. Allow the door to air dry completely before proceeding.

Step 6: Apply Primer 

Use a short-nap roller to apply primer on smooth areas. For doors with panels, start with a small brush to prime the recessed sections, then use the roller for the mullions (vertical parts) and rails (horizontal parts). Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and apply a second coat if needed.

Step 7: Paint the Door in Two Coats 

Use exterior satin or semi-gloss paint to achieve a durable, professional finish. Apply the first coat using the same method as the primer, ensuring even coverage. Allow the paint to dry fully before applying a second coat.

If the door remains on its hinges, plan for dry weather and work in stages. Prep and prime the door one day, then apply paint in the morning to allow ample drying time. Repeat for subsequent coats until the job is complete.

Step 8: Reinstall the Door 

Once the paint has dried completely, carefully remove the painter’s tape and reattach any hardware or weatherstripping. Rehang the door by aligning it with the hinges and securing the pins.

A fresh coat of paint can transform the appearance of a door and enhance the overall look of your space. With proper preparation and attention to detail, your painted door will maintain its refreshed appearance for years to come.

What Kind of Paint Works Best on Metal Doors?  

For metal doors, oil-based or acrylic paints are the most reliable options. These paints are specially designed to adhere to metal surfaces, offering durability and resistance to chipping. Acrylic latex paints are another excellent choice, particularly if you want a low-VOC option that’s easier to clean up. Both types of paint deliver a long-lasting finish while protecting the door from wear and tear

How to Prevent Peeling When Painting Metal Doors  

Proper preparation is essential to avoid peeling after painting a metal door. Begin by sanding the surface to remove imperfections and improve adhesion. Use a high-quality primer designed for metal to create a solid base for the paint. Avoid painting in extreme temperatures or high humidity, as these conditions can interfere with drying and bonding. Applying several thin layers of paint instead of one thick coat ensures even coverage and a smooth, peel-resistant finish.

Can You Paint Aluminum Commercial Doors?  

Yes, aluminum commercial doors can be painted successfully with a few extra steps. Aluminum’s non-porous surface requires a specialized primer. Start by thoroughly cleaning the door to remove dirt and grease. Apply an etching primer designed for aluminum to improve paint adhesion. Once primed, use acrylic or oil-based paint for a strong, durable finish.

The Best Paint for Steel Doors 

When painting a steel door, both water-based acrylic paints (also called latex paints) and oil-based paints (also known as solvent-based paints) can provide excellent results if applied correctly. Choosing a paint designed for exterior use, with rust and fade resistance, is key for long-lasting durability.

Professionals often prefer oil-based paints for metal surfaces because of their durability. However, they come with challenges: they take longer to dry, are harder to clean, and have higher toxicity compared to water-based paints.

If you’re tackling the project yourself, consider your skill level and preferences. Here’s a comparison of the two paint types to help you decide:

Water-Based Paints for Steel Doors 

Discover the benefits of Water-Based Paints for Steel Doors! Quick-drying, easy to apply, and resistant to fading, these paints offer a user-friendly option for DIYers. Learn how to achieve a smooth, durable finish while maintaining low toxicity and simple cleanup. Perfect for enhancing your steel door’s appearance and longevity!

Pros:

  • Fast drying
  • Easy to apply
  • Simple cleanup with water
  • Less prone to fading over time

Cons:

  • Not completely rustproof
  • Maybe less durable over time
  • Oil-Based Paints for Steel Doors

Pros:

  • Excellent rust resistance
  • Extremely durable

Cons:

  • Fades more quickly
  • Requires longer drying times
  • Higher levels of toxicity

Safety Tips for Using Oil-Based Paints 

If you choose oil-based paint, always work in a well-ventilated area (outdoors is ideal). Wear protective gloves and a mask to avoid exposure to fumes and keep your painting area safe.

By weighing the pros and cons of each type, you can select the best paint for your steel door project, ensuring both beauty and longevity.

Is It Best to Hire a Professional to Paint Your Doors? 

Hiring a professional handyman to paint a commercial metal door or other door services can often be the best choice, especially if you want a flawless, long-lasting finish. Professionals have the expertise, tools, and materials needed to ensure proper surface preparation, smooth application, and efficient project completion. They can handle challenges such as sanding, priming, and applying multiple coats of paint without the risk of peeling, uneven coverage, or premature wear.

Additionally, professionals are equipped to work with durable paints, including oil-based options, while adhering to safety protocols in well-ventilated spaces. If time, expertise, or achieving a polished result are concerns, investing in a professional painter can save time, effort, and potential mistakes. However, for smaller projects or experienced DIYers, painting the door yourself with proper preparation and technique can also yield excellent results.

To Warp Up

Knowing how to paint commercial metal doors ensures a durable, professional-looking finish that enhances the door’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. By properly preparing the surface, selecting the right paint, and applying it with care, you can achieve a result that stands up to wear and weather. Whether you’re using oil-based or water-based paints, following the correct steps is key to success. With the right approach, your commercial metal door will not only look great but also maintain its performance and longevity for years to come.

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