How to Paint a Fiberglass Door Smooth [In 3 Effective Steps]
If you want a future-proof home then start with its entrance. Most houses are designed with a fiberglass entry door. Fiberglass doors are already weatherproof and highly durable. They are a go-to door nowadays because of the insulation features that are also energy efficient. This article will help you to learn more about how to paint a fiberglass door smooth.
However, painting them can alleviate their durability and add more protection and security. Many people out there do not acknowledge the fact that they can paint over fiberglass doors. Painting can offer a new appearance and life to your doorway.
Well, it is a legit problem that you do not get a smooth finish after painting your fiberglass door. You might still find brush marks on the surface. Therefore, knowing the process properly is the first requirement in this job.
So, if you have left your footsteps on this site then surely you want to know the entire process of painting a fiberglass door smooth. Since we are serving the same purpose in describing the topic entirely, stick to us to know in detail.
Do you have to paint a fiberglass door?
Well, this question has two probable answers. If you want to give your fiberglass door a new look then you can certainly paint it with the right kind of paint. However, if you are afraid of painting over fiberglass then it is also okay. But be also notified of the fact that after some time the fiberglass door might lose its properties due to several environmental factors.
Fiberglass doors are most popular for their moisture-resistant properties. Thus, painting over them provides a layer of protective coat that helps in holding up the resistance for a longer period. A layer of paint can also help protect the door from several weather damages.
Moreover, painting fiberglass can bring a new look to your entrance door. Unlike wooden or metal doors, fiberglass doors are way capable of serving years after years. They start to fade after a certain period. Only painting can offer a newer lease of life to these doors.
Again, many manufacturers out there suggest painting the door once every 18 to 24 months. So, to make your fiberglass doors more worthy you can paint over them smoothly.
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How to Paint a Fiberglass Door Smooth – 7 Steps Complete Guide:
Well, painting a fiberglass door is easy but painting it smooth is a bit tough. Yet, the process becomes a lot easier when you manage to have the right paint and the right tools. The selection of the right paint is the first and foremost thing of this task.
Choosing the Right Paint:
As we already mentioned, not all types of paints are suitable for painting fiberglass doors. Nonetheless, there are mainly three types of fiberglass paints available on the market that are in constant use. They are,
a) High Gloss
If you want your entrance door to be stand out of all then, using high gloss paint will serve you the purpose. Giving a super shiny look to your door this paint will take your door to another precious level.
b) Regular Gloss
If you want your fiberglass door to shine comparatively low then regular gloss paint is ideal. Most people owning fiberglass doors go for this paint. It barely attracts anyone’s attention yet when you look at the door, it reflects a decent shininess.
C) Low Gloss
To give a conservative look to your entrance fiberglass door, then low gloss paint is just fine.
Again, to talk about the paint types, you can choose any of the three types that can be used on a fiberglass door. They are acrylic paint, alkyd paint, and Stain or varnish. It is always suggested to use a hundred percent acrylic paint on fiberglass doors. Especially if you want a satin or semi-gloss finish then you should use this paint.
Moreover, since you should avoid oil-based paint, you can use alkyd paint. It does not require any oil components also lasts longer on a fiberglass door. Again, gel stains are considered to be a great option for painting over the fiberglass door. However, you might need thinning materials if you want to use gel stains. In this case, you can use mineral spirits.
Whatever type you are going with just make sure you take exterior paint for this job. Exterior paints are highly suitable for resisting weather. Also, it is suggested not to go for oil-based paints or melamine paints. These paints are not suitable for fiberglass at all.
Instead go for 100% acrylic, polyurethane, epoxy, or polyester paints for this purpose. These paints come with chemical components that hold up the fiberglass structural integrity. Moreover, it is wiser if you select paint material based on the fiberglass door base material. If the door has epoxy resin as its base then go with epoxy resin paint as well. Again, if the fiberglass has polyester resin then select any polyester-based paint.
Ways to Paint Fiberglass Door without Brush Marks:
You can paint your fiberglass door smooth by following our given procedure and steps. First, make sure you have the tools.
Required Materials
- Primer [Check Also: 8 Best Primer for Fiberglass Door ]
- Fine sandpaper
- Acetone
- Suitable paint
- Brush (soft-bristled)
- Sponge
- Dry cloth
- Paintbrush (Synthetic)
- Paint tray
- Painter’s tape
- Plastic sheet or newspaper
Now that you have all the required materials in your hand. Let’s get to the procedure straight in step by step.
First of all, Prepping the Surface:
It is the first and foremost thing to do for this task. Since you have to paint the door, you need to separate the door. So, separate the door by removing the screws from its hinges. You can use a screwdriver or for faster removing use a drill machine.
Step – 1: Horizontally Laying of Door
After removing lay the fiberglass door horizontally on a table or sawhorses. It will add to your advantage while painting. Also, cover the floor with plastic sheets or newspaper to avoid excess mess. However, do not forget to remove the doorknob as well.
Step – 2: Masking Off Areas
The second thing you have to do is to separate all the hardware attached to the fiberglass door. Then mask off the places where you do not want to paint with the help of masking tape or painter’s tape. Cover the weatherstripping as well.
Step – 3: Sand Slightly
Using fine sandpaper or an all-purpose cleaning pad sand over the door slightly. Do not put extra force or pressure while sanding otherwise you may end up ruining the fiberglass particles of the door. However, sanding is important to remove the spots that have taken place on the door for years of serving.
Step – 4: Clean the Door
After sanding, clean away all the dust and debris. Take some acetone on a cloth and wipe away the door. You better not use any solvents that carry hydro-carbon in them. Such solvents leave residues after applying. Again, to wash away grease and dirt from the door you can also use soapy warm water.
Secondly, Prepare Paint and Apply
Before you apply paint, you need to prepare it. Also, before you paint, make sure you apply the primer properly.
Step – 1: Apply Primer
For applying primer, you can use a softly bristled brush of about 4-inch. Start priming the panels. However, select the best primer for applying to a fiberglass door. Carefully apply the primer all over the door surface and its edges. Then let it dry. The drying time is mentioned in the manufacturer’s instructions. Try to follow them and let the primer cure properly before going to apply the topcoat.
Step – 2: Apply Selected Exterior Paint
After applying primer and its cure, it is time to apply the exterior paint. stir the can of paint first letting the internal components and pigments of the paint incorporate properly. Take some paint in a paint tray. You can also add some paint conditioner for a better finish. But make sure you mix the conditioner with the paint thoroughly.
Again, use a 4-inch paintbrush to apply the paint. A tapered paintbrush of about 2-inch will also do well if you do not want any brush marks after painting. Submerge halfway of the paintbrush into the paint and start to apply. Make smooth and longer strokes while applying the paint and follow the grain direction.
While painting with the brush does not pressurize the process. Otherwise, you might discover brush marks later. Swiftly paint over the entire surface of the door including all six sides. When you are done giving a stroke do not paint over it. Instead, start painting the bare surface beside it. Also, when a stroke of paint is about to dry do not brush over it again.
Step – 3: Go for a Second Coat
Following the same way, repeat the process. But let each coat dry first before applying another layer of paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and let the coats dry completely. Let the final coat dry about 24 hours straight and then replace the kick plate and doorknob.
Tips:
- Make sure the area where you are working is well-ventilated. It is important especially when you are working with paint and solvent stuff.
- Since paints, stains, and other chemical products come with hazardous components make sure you read out the manufacturer’s instructions first and follow them accordingly.
- Wear protective gear especially a mask and gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation.
- Keep the chemical components away from children and most importantly, heat and flame.
FAQ
What is the best way to paint fiberglass doors?
The best way to paint fiberglass doors lies in the selection of the right tools for this specific job. Only the right kind of paint along with the right kind of paintbrush can be the reason for smooth paint over fiberglass doors.
Again, using some techniques can also bring the best result like adding some paint conditioner to the paint. Paint conditioner adds to the smooth flowing of paint while painting. It alleviates the performance and offers a smooth finish. However, if you want to know the best way in short then just do the two things below.
Prepare the Door:
The ultimate preparation of the fiberglass door is its sanding and washing. Light sand is required in this process. Nonetheless, to achieve the best way, you can use an electric sander instead of a sanding block or sandpaper. Normally you can use 220-grit sandpaper to obtain the best result. After sanding, wash the door thoroughly with soapy water or detergent solution.
Painting:
To achieve the quickest and best way, go for latex paint for painting over your fiberglass door. But first, apply latex primer and then apply two layers of paint following the method we have stated above. Also, do not forget to follow the tips.
This is the easiest & 100% working method for painting a fiberglass door smooth.
How do you paint a fiberglass door without brush marks?
As we said, a good set of tools including a paintbrush and the best paint is the key to having a painted fiberglass door without brush marks. Well, if you have a flat fiberglass door then you can pick a foam roller for painting it. But if it comes with a designed feature then using a paintbrush would be wise. A tapered paintbrush of 2 to 4 inches with soft bristles would be an ideal tool for this purpose.
Do you need to sand a fiberglass door before painting?
Yes, a fiberglass door requires sanding before painting. Naturally, on a periodical basis, a fiberglass entry door requires refinishing to retain its previous charm, shininess, and beauty. Also, to repaint or refinish, you have to remove all the old paint or stain or varnish. So, you need to sand a fiberglass door before painting.
How do you paint a door so it looks smooth?
To obtain a smooth finish of the topcoat, you can follow some techniques. Just give a slight sanding over each cot of applied primer and paint. Use coarse-grit or medium-grit sandpaper for sanding before applying primer. After applying the first coat of primer let it dry and then sand lightly over it. Then apply a second coat to have a smooth finish. Then apply the best paint for the fiberglass door following the same process.
Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by Rogers Weber
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