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Painting a flush (unpanelled/trim-free) door
Wedge door open with two flat sticks; a wooden or rubber wedge; or a rolled
up newspaper. If using a wooden wedge be careful not to kick it out afterwards
as this can split the bottom edge of the door.
Put cardboard or newspapers under the door to protect floor or
carpet.
If possible remove all handles, locks and other fittings (excepting hinges)
from the door as this will make painting easier.
When you remove handles and locks dust behind thoroughly and blow out the
dust from the lock cavity as this can easily end up in your paint. New doors
often have sawdust in the lock cavity.
Sequence for painting a flat/flush door. This sequence is for a right-handed person.
Brushes required: 1 x 1" (25mm) and 1 x 3"(75mm), (optional: 2"(50mm) if preferred)
- Using a 3" brush start and paint each section in numerical order as in the diagram.
- Use a smaller brush for cutting around the door handle and other door furniture if you have not removed it.
- As you complete each section leave off the paint with an upward stroke, lightly with the tip of the brush
- Keep checking back for runs especially in gloss paint.
- Most likely places for runs to develop on a flush door are round the handle or fittings.
- Don't apply paint too heavily or wide curtain runs can occur. Such runs should be brushed out and left off with upward strokes of the brush before the paint begins to set.
- Always try and remove runs by using an upward motion of the brush.