Painting Smooth Skin Fiberglass Doors | How to Guide | Plastpro | Plastpro Inc

Materials Needed:

  1. 1Lint-free cloth
  2. 2Acetone
  3. 3Rubber gloves
  4. 4Masking tape
  5. 54" bristle brush
  6. 6For water-based application: Acrylic primer/acrylic latex-based exterior grade paint. We recommend using "Sherwin Williams PrepRite® Bonding Primer" with compatible acrylic-latex paint for optimal paint adhesion.

Painting Fiberglass Doors with Smooth Skin

Step 1: Surface Preparation

  1. Lay door horizontally on saw horses or a table.

  2. Remove all the hardware and mask off anything you don't want painted, such as the glass insert.

  3. Lightly scuff sand the surface with a Scotch Brite pad or fine sandpaper.

  4. Wipe the door with acetone to clean any dust or residue from the surface. Allow acetone to dry from the surface before applying paint.

  5. Do not use hydro-carbon based solvents to clean the surface, as such products may leave a residue.

  6. Apply primer with a 4" brush, beginning with the panels. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time before applying a topcoat. Continue to apply the primer to ALL 6 sides. Doors which have been bored and morticed for hardware should be primed inside of the lock bore as well.

  7. The primer must be completely dry before applying the topcoat.

Step 2: Painting

  1. Apply exterior grade paint with 4" brush, beginning with the panels.

  2. It is common practice to paint both stiles the same color as the exterior side of the door. If applying a second coat, follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time between coats.

  3. Continue to apply the top coat to ALL 6 sides. Doors which have been bored and morticed for hardware should be finished inside of the lock bore as well.

Caution

  1. When using stains, mineral spirits, paints, or other hazardous materials, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Plastpro, Inc. makes no representations as to the proper use of other manufacturers' products.

  2. When working with paints or solvents, make sure the working area is well ventilated.

  3. Keep away from heat and flame, as materials may be combustible.

  4. Paints or solvents may cause skin and eye irritation. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.

  5. Keep out of reach of children.

Normal Maintenance

Even a well-finished fiberglass door will be affected by exposure and weathering from the sun, moisture, and air pollutants. It is considered normal maintenance to re-apply the topcoat approximately every two years.

Due to the variability in finishing materials, application conditions, and techniques, all of which are beyond the control of Plastpro. Plastpro cannot be responsible for the performance of field applied finishes or individual application techniques.