How to Paint Over Stained Wood Doors

Over time, stained wood doors get scratched, dingy and dull. You've no doubt priced new doors: They're expensive to purchase and install. Painting over your old stained doors extends their useful life for years, covering the worn surface with a bright new coat, whether you choose fresh white, warm brown or an intense, fun color. The keys to painting over stained wood doors are attention to detail, meticulous preparation and quality tools and materials.

Scrub sponge
Detergent
Wood putty
Sanding pad or sandpaper
Brush or vacuum
Paint brush
Trim roller
Primer
Caulk
Rags
Satin or semi-gloss paint

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the door using a scrub sponge and mild detergent. Even if the surface looks clean, chances are there's a substantial accumulation of furniture polish, dust and grime.
- 2
  Fill dents, gouges and nail holes with carpenter's wood putty. Allow it to dry for at least one hour.
- 3
  Sand the door with a flexible sanding sponge or 120-grit sandpaper until the entire surface looks dull and feels smooth when you run your hand over it. Brush or vacuum away sanding dust.
- 4
  Prime the door with water- or solvent-based stain-blocking primer. Use a 2- or 3-inch brush for panel doors or a brush and 6-inch trim roller for flat doors.
- 5
  Sand the door lightly after priming, especially if you've used water-based primer. This ensures a very smooth surface. Brush away the dust.
- 6
  Apply caulk to gaps in panels or at joints by applying a bead of caulk and then smoothing it down immediately with your fingertip or a damp rag.
- 7
  Apply two coats of satin or semi-gloss paint with a brush or roller.

How to Paint Inside Laminate Cabinets

How to Paint on Cork

Indoor House Painting