If you are tired of your old, chipping, outdated garage door, it is time for some new paint. Changing the appearance of your garage door can completely change the look of your home.

It will protect it better from the elements of the outdoors, and will give your home a fresh new look at the same time. However, you do not need a professional to help you do this-with the right tools, you can do it yourself.

There are a few things which you should think about before you proceed. Make sure that you consider your paint type, your sheen, and the color.

There are two paint types for you to choose from to paint an exterior wood door. You can choose between latex and solvent-based.

Latex paint has the advantages of being easy to clean up with soap and water and of drying quickly. Solvent-based paint has to be cleaned up with paint thinner, and takes longer to dry.

But the color in oil paint tends to be brighter and last longer than latex paint. Whichever of the two types you choose make sure they are clearly marked for use outdoors.

The sheen refers to the top coat that goes over the paint. It determines how glossy or flat the paint will look when it is dry.

You can choose between gloss, semi-gloss, satin, or matte. When it comes to choosing color, pick something that will compliment the outside color scheme of the outside of your home.

You have the choice of one which blends will with your home, or works to compliment them in a new way. Before you start to paint, there are important steps you need to prepare to ensure that you do not cut any corners.

Taking the time now for thorough preparation will ensure you do the job right, and save you the time and frustration of having to re-do it later. Remove the door completely before you get started.

Prepare the surface. This is very important, because if you do not smooth down and wash the door, splinters and dirt will make it difficult for the color to properly adhere to the surface, and it will be at risk to flake off prematurely.

If the area has been painted in the past, sand it down with medium grade sandpaper to remove old, loose, and chipped color. If it is a new, you will only have to sand it very lightly with fine-grade sandpaper.

If there are any cracks or holes in it, fill them with wood filler, then sand the area. The goal is to get the surface as smooth as you possibly can.

When it comes to cleaning it down, wipe it down with a damp cloth. If the door needs it, wash it with a hose or a pressure washer.

Wait until a day when the temperature is going to be warm. This will make sure that all the moisture is gone before you begin.

Apply painter’s masking tape on the glass windows and the edges, to prevent paint from overlapping on to it. Apply tape as well to handles, brackets, and hinges to protect them from the paint.

Lay down drop cloths on the ground under the area where you will be painting, such as the floor, driveway, or lawn. Apply a primer coat first if you can.

It offers a protective base coat to new wood, and hides the original color underneath. If the original color is dark and still shows through, apply a second coat of primer.

Make sure the primer has completely dried before you proceed with the color you wish to use. Use the same brush you used with the primer, once they have been washed and dried.

Apply the paint by brushing in the same direction as the wood grain, not against it. When you dip your roller in the tray, make sure you do not pick up too much, as excess tends to drip and run down the surface.

Read the instructions on the can to determine if you need to apply a second coat. Generally, most high end quality ones only require one coat.

Once it is completely dry, it is done. Now you will be able to enjoy the new look to the outside of your home.

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