Q&A for How to Paint a Garage Door

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Are there any mistakes to avoid when I'm painting the door?

Patrick Coye
Painting Specialist
Patrick Coye is the owner and operator of Patrick’s Painting & Home Improvement in Alexandria, Virginia. With over 15 years of experience in residential construction, Patrick specializes in painting, wallpaper removal/installation, drywall, staining decks and fences, and kitchen cabinetry painting. To date, Patrick and his team have painted over 2,000 houses and stained over 800 decks. Patrick's Company won a "Top Job" award from the American Painting contractor magazine in 2020.

Patrick Coye

Painting Specialist

Expert Answer

The most common mistake I see is when people paint their garage door closed. To avoid that, paint the door, then take a utility knife blade and run it along the seams and the sides of the door. Or, you could just work in sections painting from the bottom section to the top.

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Question

Should you paint the edges between the panels?

Community Answer

Yes, otherwise unpainted edges will be visible when you raise and lower the garage door. To make this easier, raise the door halfway and stop it. This will give you more room to get in between the hinged edges.

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Question

What type of paint is best?

Community Answer

Semigloss paint, like acrylic latex and enamel, provide a smooth, even finish and are easy to wipe clean once they're fully dry.

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Question

How do I paint behind the weather flashing around the frame?

Community Answer

You don´t paint behind the weather flashing; your door will stick to it if you do.

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What type of paint should I use for a metal door?

Community Answer

Rust-Oleum makes a metal spray that comes in cans: almost any color is available. Follow the instructions. Apply a primer to the door after sanding it down. Then spraypaint.

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