Brigitte’s done everything in her house. The place is beautiful. It’s time to sell and there’s no better way to make a good first impression with prospective buyers than with a fresh coat of paint on the front door.
DO take the door off the hinges if possible. If you lie the door flat, the paint won’t pool in the nooks and crannies.
DON’T do this on a day when it is too cold or too humid. You want a mild temperature for the paint to bond and cure properly.
A Good First Impression
If possible, remove the door. It doesn’t take long and it makes the work easier in the long run. You won’t have to stand on stools or crook your neck to reach out-of-the-way places. (see fig. A)
If there is a window in the door you can take the time to tape the glass surface to prevent paint from getting on the glass. (This is fiddly work.) Or you can just go ahead and paint and clean up the glass later using a scraper with a sharp edge. This is easier and much more satisfying for some reason. (see fig. B)
Fig. A
Fig. B
Wash the door using TSP. Rinse with clean water.
Examine the surface to see if there are any scrapes or gouges that need to be filled. If you find any, use a putty knife to apply spackling suitable for exterior purposes. Let dry.
Use a palm sander and medium grade paper to sand the surface. (see fig. C)
Fig. C
Fig. D
Wipe the door until it is dust free. (see fig. D)
Apply the paint using a hand brush. A brush with a flat end is best for the broad surfaces. A tapered brush is great for cutting around glass and doorknobs. (see fig. E)
Fig. E
Fig. F
Let the first coat dry. Apply a second coat.
Use the scraper to remove any paint from glass surfaces. (see fig. F) door07
Rehang the door. Invite your friends over so they can ooooohhh and aaaaahhhh… (see figs. G & H)
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