Learn refinish a fiberglass exterior door.
Fiberglass was originally a material made from fine glass fibers. But in common usage, fiberglass actually means glass-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer. That is because glass fibers are typically used as a reinforcing agent for plastic, making a strong composite material now called fiberglass. In construction, building and architecture, fiberglass has many uses from insulation to roofing. It is also used for exterior doors, mostly because of its durability and easy maintenance. However, even fiberglass doors need refinishing, although not as frequently as wood. If you want to have a perfect exterior door, you may want to learn refinish its fiberglass surface.
Instructions
1. Clean the fiberglass door thoroughly by using warm water and a mild detergent. Use a soft scrub sponge rather than an aggressive and abrasive one. Remember that the whole surface needs to be perfectly clean and dry before the refinishing process.
2. Strip the old paint on the fiberglass door. Use an old paintbrush to apply paint remover on the surface of the door. Leave the paint remover for at least 5 minutes. Then scrape off the old paint from the surface using a putty knife. You can use a small wire brush or a nylon brush to remove old paint from the inner corners and trims of recessed panel doors.
3. Prepare for refinishing your fiberglass exterior door by protecting the door hardware. Remove the door handle by unscrewing it with a Phillips head screwdriver. Set the handle aside for later and make sure not to stain it, as it's hard to remove the paint from its surface. Use masking tape to cover the door hinges and any door windows as well. Make sure the tape is secure and that the hinges and the windows are safe. Place a drop cloth under the door to prevent staining the floor.
4. Check your fiberglass door and determine the direction of the grain patterns. This is necessary because you have to apply the paint in the direction of the grain. Note however, that doors usually have a few different patterns and directions so plan accordingly.
5. Apply a layer of oil-based gel stain or paint on the whole surface of your fiberglass door. Use a wide paintbrush and make sure to follow the direction of the grain. Also, work the gel stain well into the grain surface. Remove any possible mistakes immediately with a clean cloth.
6. Leave it to dry for 48 hours, making sure nothing touches the surface of the door during that time. During the whole process of refinishing, make sure that there is no loose dust around your fiberglass door.
7. Apply a layer of clear topcoat onto the door, using either a paintbrush or a spray. Note that at this point, it is better to apply 3 to 5 thin coats than one thick layer. Leave the topcoat to dry for 24 to 48 hours, until it's completely hardened.
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