Painting a door by putting it flat on a pair of sawhorses
is the best way to prevent drips and runs. You can paint
in a garage or other area that will keep odors from
lingering inside your house. It's also the fastest way –
by removing all the hardware, you won't have to paint
around any obstacles. Now is the time to change styles or
replace worn hardware. Just be sure to take your old
hardware with you when you shop for replacements to make
sure you get the correct sizes.
Remove the door by
driving the lower hinge pin out with a screwdriver
and hammer. Have a helper hold the door in place as
you drive out the pin.
Place the door flat
on sawhorses to paint it. On paneled doors, paint in
the following order: 1) recessed panels, 2)
horizontal rails, and 3) vertical stiles. That way,
you won't leave any unnecessary brush marks.
Let the door dry
completely. If a second coat of paint is needed,
sand the door lightly and then wipe it with a tack
cloth before repainting.
Seal the unpainted
bottom edge of the door with clear wood sealer to
prevent moisture from entering the wood. Any water
will cause the wood to warp and swell, resulting in
a door that won't close properly.
Remove the door by
driving the lower hinge pin out with a screwdriver
and hammer. Have a helper hold the door in place as
you drive out the pin.
Place the door flat
on sawhorses to paint it. On paneled doors, paint in
the following order: 1) recessed panels, 2)
horizontal rails, and 3) vertical stiles. That way,
you won't leave any unnecessary brush marks.
Let the door dry
completely. If a second coat of paint is needed,
sand the door lightly and then wipe it with a tack
cloth before repainting.
Seal the unpainted
bottom edge of the door with clear wood sealer to
prevent moisture from entering the wood. Any water
will cause the wood to warp and swell, resulting in
a door that won't close properly.