Painting Thermofoil for PVC Doors

Slip on a pair of rubber gloves and safety goggles before creating a mixture of 1 tablespoon TSP, or tri-sodium phosphate, and one-half gallon warm water. Stir the ingredients until the TSP powder--a mild degreaser located at home improvement and hardware stores-- is completely dissolved.

Dampen a kitchen sponge with the mixture and wipe down the thermofoil door to remove any dirt, grease or grime. Dampen a separate kitchen sponge with plain water and use it to thoroughly rinse away the TSP residue. Dry the door with a soft cloth.

Sand the thermofoil door with fine-grit sandpaper. Using even, back and forth motions, gently run the sandpaper over the thermofoil to roughen the door’s surface, allowing the primer and paint to adhere more effectively.

Wipe down the thermofoil door with a tack cloth to remove the sanding dust. Cover the door with a thin layer of primer designed for use on plastic. Use a natural-bristled paintbrush to apply the primer and allow it to set for at least two to three hours before continuing.

Apply a thin layer of top-quality latex or acrylic indoor paint. Apply the paint with a natural-bristled brush using even, long strokes. Allow the initial layer of paint to set for at least three to four hours before applying a second, and if necessary, a third coat.

Allow the final paint coat to dry for at least 24 hours before attaching or using the door.