A garage door takes on more wear and tear than almost any other exterior surface––sun exposure, humidity, dust, kids’ sports equipment, BBQ smoke, daily use, you name it! Because of this, garage door paint fades faster than most homeowners expect. If your door is looking dull, chipped, or uneven, a fresh paint job is one of the fastest ways to boost curb appeal. 

This guide walks you through:

• Which paint to use for vinyl, wood, or metal garage doors
• How weather affects adhesion and why timing matters
• How to prep the door to avoid peeling, cracking or bubbling 
• When to apply a second coat of paint and how long to wait before applications
• What to do if you want the job off of your plate completely

What Paint Should You Use on a Garage Door? 

Choosing the correct paint is the most important part of the entire project. The wrong paint will peel, crack, bubble, or fair to bond. Sometimes within weeks! The right paint depends on your garage door’s material. Typically, you’ll want a quality latex exterior paint paired with the right primer. You can check the sticker or label on the inside of your garage door to confirm whether it is vinyl, wood, or metal. Here is a quick guide: 

Step One: Choose the Right Weather Window

Weather is one of the biggest factors in whether the paint bonds properly. Aim for conditions between 50 and 75 degrees, low humidity, and no direct sunlight. Painting in the rain, or before or after rain, can lead to: 

• Poor adhesion
• Cracking
• Bubbling
• Trapped moisture under the paint film

If you can, choose a weekend of a 2-3 day window where temperatures are steady. 

Step Two: Prep the Garage Door Surface

Prep determines how long your new finish lasts. Most failed paint jobs come from poor prep––not poor paint. We recommend doing the following: 

• Remove rust, peeling paint, and grime using a wire brush
• Sand the surface with a fine-grit pad to create a smooth base
• Clean thoroughly using all-purpose cleaner and large sponge
• Rinse with a hose and let the door dry completely

Power washing works too, but is optional. If you see missed spots, repeat cleaning until the surface feels smooth, clean, and residue-free. 

Step Three: Tape and Protect Your Surroundings

Use painter’s tape to cover: 

• Handles
• Locks
• Weatherstripping
• Trim

Lay drop cloths to project the driveway and garage floor. Clean lines and a tidy workspace make the final result look professionally done. 

Pro Tip: Turn off the garage door opener and lift the door manually as you work. Adjusting the door height saves your back and gives you better control. 

Step Four: Prime the Garage Door

Start with the inset panels, then roll the larger flat sections. Wipe away any excess primer immediately to prevent ridges or drips. Remember to let the primer dry for 24 hours for best adhesion. 

Step Five: Paint the Garage Door

Begin with the inset panels again, then work outward: 

• Paint the panel recesses with a brush
• Paint the panel frames
• Paint the outer edges
• Roll the flat areas in smooth, even passes

Work in small sections to maintain a wet edge and reduce lap marks. 

Step Six: Apply a Second Coat

Most garage doors need two coats for full coverage and color consistency. Allow the first coat to dry for at least 24 hours, then apply the second coat using the same method. Once fully dry, remove the painter’s tape carefully for crisp lines.

DIY or Hire a Professional for Garage Door Painting?

Painting a garage door may seem simple, but the process is time-consuming and easy to mess up if preparation or paint choice is off. A small mistake, such as the wrong primer or painting in the wrong weather, can shorten the life of the finish drastically. 

The professionals at CertaPro Painters® handle: 

• Full prep and sanding
• Priming with correct products
• Clean, even coats with professional tools
• Fast project timelines

Homeowners often tell us that hiring pros saved them an entire weekend and ensured a result that lasts for years. 

Refresh Your Garage Door with CertaPro Painters®

Your garage door sets the tone for your curb appeal. A clean, even, professionally painted finish can completely transform how your home looks from the street. 

If you’re ready to update your garage door, CertaPro Painters® can handle the project from start to finish. Schedule a free estimate and let our team bring your garage door back to life quickly and with no stress on your end.