answering your questions: can you paint composite front doors?

Can you paint composite doors at home? Many DIYers don’t know the answer to this question, yet it’s absolutely possible.

By this point, I’m sure that everyone has heard about the merits of kerb appeal and how a simple facelift can enhance the value of your property, but this doesn’t stop at painting a feature wall or touching up your kitchen cupboards – the condition and aesthetic of your front door has a tangible impact on the first impression that visitors make.

In fact, a recent survey by the HomeOwners Alliance demonstrated that 52% of people believe that a well-maintained and attractive front door is important. All the more reason to give your composite front door a bit of TLC!

taking the leap: deciding whether to refresh your doors

Composite doors are known for being a great option for security, durability and longevity, and one of their advantages is that they don’t need to be painted – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.

Picture this: you’re trying to sell your home and the first thing prospective buyers see is a tired and unsightly front door. Not exactly the inspiring first impression you wanted to achieve, right?

If you’re stuck with a naff shade the previous owner picked out or it no longer matches your home’s exterior colour, you might find yourself googling “can you paint composite doors” – as you should! It’s a creative and cost-effective course of action that doesn’t take too long and won’t have you bearing the burden of finding a complete replacement.

what is the best paint for a composite door?

When it comes to finding a decent exterior door paint there are 3 things you ought to consider: the brand, finish and colour. They’ll all impact the final result, so make sure to put a good deal of thought into it.

picking out the type of paint

When it comes to selecting the best paint for composite doors, your first consideration should be the type of paint. Opting for water-based paint is a no-brainer.

Unlike oil-based alternatives, water-based paints resist yellowing over time, and our favourite bit, they boast superior environmental credentials, being water-soluble, non-toxic, and free of harmful VOCs.

For products that can endure wear and tear along with whatever the weather throws at it reputable brands like Zinsser and Bradite are excellent choices, ideal for trade applications.

If you’re inclined towards premium choices, consider Farrow & Ball for a sophisticated transformation of your composite doors. Or you could colour match one of the previous options with your favourite designer shade to save a little.

picking out the finish

Selecting the appropriate finish for your composite door hinges (pun unintended!) on various factors such as personal preferences, desired aesthetic, and practical requirements.

A Satin or Eggshell Finish

This option offers a subtle sheen, facilitating easy cleaning and providing a sleek appearance. However, it may not effectively conceal surface imperfections compared to matte finishes.

Matte Finish

Delivering a non-reflective, velvety look, matte finishes excel at camouflaging imperfections. However, they tend to be less robust and more challenging to clean than glossier alternatives.

Gloss Finish

Reflective and long-lasting, gloss finishes are effortless to maintain and intensify colour vibrancy. Nevertheless, they have the potential to accentuate surface flaws.

picking out a colour

The fun bit! When selecting a paint colour for your door, don’t forget to infuse your personality into the decision. Embrace the trend of colour matching, which has gained momentum on social media platforms like TikTok.

Just as colour consultants match palettes to individuals, you can do the same for your front door, choosing a hue that resonates with your energy and reflects your personality. Just don’t overlook your home’s exterior colour scheme and trim.

preparing like a pro

Composite is made up of a mixture of materials, including wood uPVC and metal, so it’s not the same as painting a regular timber door; it requires some specialist preparation.

To prepare for painting a composite front door, start by lightly sanding it down using fine-grade sandpaper. This step is crucial for achieving a durable finish, so don’t skip it. Ensure the door is free of dust, grime, and lint by giving it a thorough dusting off.

Remove the door furniture, except for the lock, which can be protected with masking tape to avoid any mishaps. Sanding is essential regardless of whether the door is composite or UPVC, contrary to some guides that may suggest otherwise. Trusting from experience and advice from our decorating experts, sanding ensures a smoother surface and enhances paint adhesion. Skipping this step could result in a less durable finish and potential chipping later on.

how to paint a composite door in 7 steps

1. Prepare the door – Ensure the composite front door is sanded, clean and dry before starting the painting process.
2. Prime / skip primer (if using self-priming paint) – If your paint is self-priming, there’s no need to apply a separate primer to the door, but if you are priming add a thin and uniform layer and leave to dry as instructed on the packaging.
3. Apply the first coat – Use a brush or roller to apply the first coat of paint evenly across the door’s surface. Allow it to dry as stated on the tin or until touch dry.
4. Apply the second coat – Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat of paint using the same method as before. Ensure each coat of paint is allowed to dry completely before applying the next one. This helps prevent smudges or uneven patches.
5. Assess coverage – Evaluate the coverage after the second coat. If necessary, apply a third coat for additional coverage and durability.
6. Evaluate the results – Once all coats are applied and dried, assess the finish to ensure it meets your expectations in terms of coverage and appearance.
7. Finally, add the door furnishings back on and step back and admire.

tldr: can composite door be painted?

Yes, composite doors can be painted, and it’s a great way to refresh your home’s exterior. Consider factors like paint type, finish, and colour selection before starting. Proper preparation is key, including sanding and cleaning the door thoroughly. Follow our steps above for painting your composite door: prepare the door, apply primer if necessary, apply at least 2 coats of paint, allow drying between coats, and assess the finish. With the right approach, you can achieve a vibrant and durable result.

Everything you need to know

That’s a wrap on whether you can paint composite doors, plus all the tips and tricks you can employ to do a fabulous job. So whether you want to inject a little more colour into your life, or you simply want to touch up a faded front door, you have all the knowledge you need to get started.

To delve deeper into the world of painting and decorating, explore the rest of our blog.