Quck answer
Painting an exterior vinyl door is a simple and cost-effective way to refresh its appearance. Follow these steps to achieve a professional-looking finish:
1. Clean the door thoroughly using a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse and allow it to dry completely.
2. Sand the door lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe away any dust with a clean cloth.
3. Apply a primer specifically designed for vinyl surfaces. Use a brush or roller to ensure even coverage. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Choose a high-quality exterior paint that is suitable for vinyl. Apply two coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
5. Once the paint is dry, inspect the door for any missed spots or imperfections. Touch up as necessary.
By following these steps, you can transform the look of your exterior vinyl door and give it a fresh, new appearance.
Refinishing vinyl is a cost-effective option, especially compared to purchasing pre-tinted panels for the door’s surface. If you were to use regular exterior paint on a vinyl door, it would quickly peel and chip, especially with constant use and exposure to the elements. Refinishing a vinyl door involves using a primer with a bonding agent, followed by multiple coats of a special latex paint also containing a bonding agent. This combination of primer and paint creates a chemical reaction that essentially melts the door’s surface, allowing the primer and paint to adhere to the vinyl and create a durable finish.
Preparing the Door for Refinishing
Step 1
Use a hose to rinse off any superficial dirt and debris from the door.
Step 2
Using a screwdriver, remove the door from its hinges and lay it flat on a drop cloth.
Step 3
Take off the door handle by unscrewing the two screws around the base of the handle. If you prefer not to remove the handle, you can cover it with a plastic bag secured with painter’s tape or masking tape to protect it and any exposed metal areas.
Step 4
In a bucket, mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and sponge the soapy water onto the door. The dish soap will help remove dirt and break up any oils on the surface.
Step 5
Scrub the door with a scrub brush, using a circular motion to get rid of dirt and grime. Since most vinyl doors have a faux wood texture, scrubbing is necessary to clean the indentations.
Step 6
Rinse the door with a hose and allow it to air dry before moving on.
Applying Primer to the Door
Step 1
Wear a face mask or respirator to avoid inhaling primer and paint fumes.
Step 2
Place a liner in the paint tray, stir the primer-bonder, and pour enough into the tray to cover the bottom of the reservoir at the lower end.
Step 3
Apply an even coat of primer-bonder to the door’s surface. Let the door dry before continuing. The recommended drying time varies depending on the product, so read the label to determine how long you should wait before painting.
Step 4
Pour the remaining primer-bonder back into the canister and dispose of the tray liner and roller. Replace them with a new paint roller and tray liner.
Painting the Door
Step 1
Stir the paint before pouring it into the tray.
Step 2
Paint the door, applying a thin, even coat. If a second coat is recommended (check the product label), allow the first coat to dry completely.
Step 3
Put the door back on its hinges and reinstall the door handle once the paint has dried. Avoid using the door until the paint has fully set, which usually takes 36 to 72 hours. Refer to the product label for the specific setting time.
