If you don t see any paint on the rag it was oil based.
What kind of paint to use on aluminum door.
For truly greasy or dirty aluminum siding or other outdoor pieces use a commercial degreaser in the power washer or sprayed on the surface to ensure it is as clean as possible and ready to take on primer and paint.
When painting metal always use exterior latex paint.
If your door is paneled start with the panels.
After the 24 hour drying time has elapsed you can paint the top coat on your garage door.
Painting aluminum is a slightly different process than painting an interior or exterior wall so use paint designed to adhere to aluminum.
To determine what kind of paint was previously used on the door pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a clean white rag or cotton ball.
Although you can paint aluminum with nearly any paint exterior grade spray paint leaves an even smooth finish without.
Pour the paint into a tray.
If painting light to moderately used indoor metal surfaces think wall sconces bed frames or guest room night tables go with water based acrylic paint a cheaper 15 to 40 per gallon.
Use the vacuum with the dust attachment to clean off the door then wipe it down with a wet rag.
Steps for painting a door.
If the aluminum is outside use a power washer to remove all grit and grime that can stick to the aluminum surface.
Use a large brush to cut down on your overall painting time.
Aluminum is also used for some bi fold closet and cabinet doors.
Step 1 apply a mild soap or detergent with a scrub brush and sponge thoroughly washing the entire surface of the garage door.
Then rub the damp rag back and forth on a small less exposed section of the door.
If you see paint on the rag the last paint used was water based.
Using semigloss exterior paint and a 2 inch angled sash brush with synthetic bristles paint around the edges of the.
This means that when you use latex paint the paint will move with the door when it expands and compresses in warm and cold weather.
Remove the door from its hinge pins with the hammer and place it on the sawhorses.
Remove the hardware from the door and place it somewhere safe.
Lightly sand the door with 400 grit sandpaper.
Latex paint is acrylic paint mixed with a binding agent that completely covers the surface staying with it no matter what.