Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/19/2007

Question
In response to another questioner who was repainting an exterior door, you said that spar-urethane was all you need if you were satisfied with the original color.  I'm having a new wood door with a primer on it put in.  It has to be painted to my homeowners' association's specified color - which I plan to do myself.  What steps do I need to take?  

Thanks for your help.  

Ann

Answer
Hi Ann
Nice to hear from you.
I hope you did not get confused with a previous answer I gave someone.
Spar varnish is not used over paint. It can be used over a stain color of your choice though or put directly on bare wood.
So lets forget spar varnish if you are painting.
You say your door will be installed with the primer already on. So the only thing it needs is a light sanding with 120 grit paper and you are ready to paint.
When you paint, make sure all surfaces are covered in paint. That means top and bottom too.
You may need to remove the door to paint but that will be easy.
And of course exterior paint on the outside of the door.
Good luck and a great question
Regards
Eileen