The Parts Of The Door Painting Process You Might Be Forgetting About

While painting a door might seem straightforward, there are a few spots amateurs are prone to miss. Aside from choosing the best color for your interior doors, don't forget to remove all hardware and paint even the areas that aren't usually visible when the door is installed. In other words, don't run the risk of your brand-new paint job appearing sloppy and careless. Always remove the bracket for the deadbolt and paint the indentation with the rest of the door frame. You want to avoid any visible paint lines, and dust and debris can get stuck under the bracket while you are painting. 

Another space that homeowners forget to paint is the top of the door and door frame. Although it might not seem visible, an unpainted surface is rough and therefore more difficult to clean. Just because you can't see something, doesn't mean it should be skipped in the renovation process. If you're searching for clever tips and tricks to consider when painting your door, it all starts with the prep work. Always clean your doors with this secret ingredient before painting them. However, there are instances when you may want to use a paint stripper instead. 

During the painting process, there are more than a few places that can be missed. Beyond the deadbolt bracket and the top of the door, don't forget to paint underneath the bottom of your door as well. The top and bottom of your door can absorb moisture over time, which makes it even more crucial to paint the entire perimeter. You can remove your door from its hinges — and the hinges themselves — before the painting process for easier access to hard-to-reach areas. This will also help you avoid getting paint on the hardware. Either purchase a paint that includes a sealant or use a separate sealant like the Rust-Oleum 242057 Painter's Touch Latex Paint in Clear Gloss for additional protection. Although painting the nooks and crannies of your door and door frame may seem tedious, it is always better to be thorough to prevent issues in the future.

Just as it's important to paint every inch of your interior doors, it's also good practice to make sure you're starting with a clean slate. Stripping the paint can prevent peeling as a result of too many coats. You can use the Smart 'n Easy Paint & Varnish Remover Gel. After removing and washing off the old paint, you'll want to sand your door and door frame to help create a smoother application.