How should I finish my steel doors and/or sidelites?

Select the proper paint. A quality solvent-based semi-gloss enamel paint is recommended. Advise your paint supplier that you will be painting a primed galvanized steel entry door-ask for his recommendations.

Step #1:

• Fill installation nail holes with caulk or wood filler.
• Repair any dents or scratches.
• Lightly sand the area, use fiberglass paste and smooth over the effected area following instructions on the tube or can.
• Sand the filled and repaired surfaces until smooth.

Step #2:

• Caulk between brickmould and exterior siding (if necessary).
• Also run a small bead of caulk between the brickmould and frame jamb.
• Allow caulk to dry completely.

Step #3:

• Thoroughly clean all surfaces before painting.
• Apply paint following the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Do not paint weather-stripping or panel bottom sweep, they must remain soft and flexible.
• Note: For a smooth look on lighted door and sidelite panels, fill margin between lite surround and panel skin with caulk.