A well-painted door can have a great effect on the look of a house or room
Painting is not the easiest of household maintenance chores, but if you prepare yourself properly and follow all the right steps it is not as complicated as it might initially seem. Oil-based paints, while not the most environmentally safe choice, provide versatility that often makes the job easier to complete.
Instructions
Painting a Door
1. Ensure that you are painting in a well-ventilated area. Oil-based paint emits harmful fumes, so always make sure there is a ventilation fan running or a number of open windows close by. If possible, painting outside is a healthier and more comfortable option.
2. Tape the door frame and any areas that will not be painted, such as windows and handles. Regular masking tape can be used, but painter's tape is made to peel off more easily, which reduces the risk of damaging the surface it is taped to. A second option is to remove the door from the hinges and paint it separately. This method can get a better effect as it reduces dripping and running of the paint.
3. Place a dropsheet or newspapers at the base of the door to catch any drips that may fall from the brush or can. As careful as you may try to be, it is inevitable that a drop will fall at some point and oil-based paint is not easy to clean.
4. Paint the door. Paint in broad strokes in an even motion, painting in the same direction as much as possible. Oil-based paint is more difficult to paint with than latex, but it is also more likely to need only one coat. Don't get too much paint on the brush at a time, as this will cause dripping or running on the door. It is recommended that you apply a second coat for better coverage, especially if the new color is lighter than the original.
5. Allow the door to dry. With oil-based paints, this can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours. Keep the area well ventilated over the drying process. When the door is partially dry, remove the tape. If it is still wet, the paint can drip or run onto the previously painted surface. If it is completely dry, it can crack.
6. Clean the brushes using turpentine or paint thinner. Unlike latex-based paints, oil-based paints cannot be cleaned with soap and water. Make sure all of the paint is out of the brush so the brush doesn't harder and can be used again in the future.
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