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How to Finish Fiberglass Exterior Doors

Finishing a fiberglass exterior door is similar to finishing a wooden exterior door. Instead of sanding the door in preparation for paint or stain, a fiberglass door is cleaned using mineral spirits. The other essential steps in the finishing process are nearly the same. Whether you paint or stain your fiberglass door, you can achieve an attractive finish with the proper preparation and application. Paint and stain are both common ways to finish a fiberglass exterior door. Select a finish that will complement the exterior of your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Painter's tape
  • Mineral spirits
  • Clean rags
  • Oil based gel stain
  • Natural bristle brush
  • Latex primer
  • Paintbrushes
  • Acrylic paintbrushes
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Instructions

  1. Finishing Fiberglass Exterior Doors with Stain

    • 1

      Mask the areas of the door that you do not want to be finished, such as weatherstripping, glass and hardware, using painter's tape.

    • 2

      Clean the surface of the door with mineral spirits, using a clean rag. Allow the door to air-dry.

    • 3

      Rub on a coat of oil-based gel stain, using a clean rag.

    • 4

      Brush over the rubbed coat with a natural bristle brush to remove excess stain and ensure an even application. Allow the finish to dry for at least 72 hours before installation of the door.

    Finishing Fiberglass Exterior Doors with Paint

    • 5

      Tape off all areas of the door that you do not want painted, such as weatherstripping, glass and hardware.

    • 6

      Clean the door thoroughly with mineral spirits, using a clean rag.

    • 7

      Prime the door with a latex primer using a paintbrush. Allow the primer to dry at least four hours.

    • 8

      Paint the door with an acrylic topcoat paint. Allow the paint to cure for seven to 10 days prior to installing the door.