How to Make a Painted Door Glossy

Making a painted door glossy is possible by applying polyurethane to the surface of the door. Polyurethane brightens the color of the door and provides a durable sealant, preventing color fading and wear. Oil-based polyurethane dries slower than water-based polyurethane, making it easier to apply and reduces streaks. A glossy door finish prevents stains and dirt from penetrating the wood and allows you to wipe off any surface dirt without a problem.

Mild cleaner
Soft sponge
Touch-up paint
Small paintbrush
Oil-based glossy polyurethane
2-inch-wide bristle paintbrush
Fine sandpaper
Tack cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare the surface of the door. Wash all traces of grime, fingerprints and dirt using a soft sponge and a mild cleaner that leaves no filmy residue.
- 2
  Check the painted door for any nicks or chipped paint. Touch up the flaws in the paint using the same color paint as the door and a small paintbrush. Any home improvement store can mix paint colors to match the door color.
- 3
  Apply the first coat of polyurethane with a 2-inch bristle paintbrush, following the grain of the wood. Brush the polyurethane onto the door using long, overlapping strokes to prevent streaks.
- 4
  Lightly sand the first coat of polyurethane with fine sandpaper until it is smooth. Make sure the polyurethane is dry before sanding.
- 5
  Wipe the door with tack cloth to remove any dust particles.
- 6
  Apply a second coat of polyurethane, using the same method as the first coat.
- 7
  Sand the second coat in the same way as the previous coat and wipe off any dust with the tack cloth.
- 8
  Apply a final coat of polyurethane to the painted door. Do not sand the last coat of polyurethane, leaving the high-gloss finish intact.

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