Aluminum doors are known for their durability and resistance to rust. Painting an aluminum door is a great way to freshen up the look of your home. Now, you may be wondering what’s the best paint and primer to use.
For painting aluminum doors, it is best to use high-quality acrylic paint designed for metal surfaces. This type of paint has superior adhesion and is less likely to flake or peel off during extreme weather conditions. A self-etching primer should be used to increase the adhesion of the paint to the surface.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 4 factors to consider when choosing paint for aluminum door
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for aluminum door
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for an Aluminum Door
1. Weather Conditions
Different paints react differently to temperature and humidity levels. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, choose a paint that can withstand the heat or cold.
Some paints are weather-resistant and protect your door against fading, peeling, and chalking. The paint you choose should also be UV resistant to protect against the sun’s damaging rays.
2. Application Method
When painting aluminum, choosing the right application method can make the difference between an outstanding finish and a disaster. Depending on your preference and the paint type, you can use a brush, roller, or spray can.
A brush is ideal for small, hard-to-reach areas, while a roller is best for large, flat surfaces. Spray cans offer a sleek finish but can be messy and require careful handling.
3. Quality of paint
Not all paint is created equal. Choosing cheap paint may seem appealing from a cost standpoint, but it may end up costing you more in the long run. High-quality paint has better adhesion, resists fading, and can protect your aluminum door against rust and corrosion.
Additionally, high-quality paint is easier to apply, resulting in a smoother finish. Invest in a good quality paint brand to ensure that your paint job lasts for a long time.
4. Paint Finish
Finally, it’s important to choose the right finish for your paint job. A glossy finish gives an aluminum door a polished look but can highlight imperfections in the surface. A semi-gloss finish offers a subtle gloss and is resistant to stains and humidity.
If you want a more natural look, opt for a satin or flat finish which can help hide imperfections while still providing some sheen.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion and plasticizers, silicone oils, defoamers, stabilizers, or metal. It is a popular choice for painting aluminum doors due to its durability and versatility.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Easy to apply
- Quick drying time
- Versatile – can be used on many surfaces
- Non-toxic and safe to use
Cons
- Can be expensive compared to other paints
- Not as resistant to fading as oil paints
Latex Paint
Latex paint is a water-based paint made of pigments, binders, and water-based liquids. It is durable and non-toxic, making it great for interior projects. Latex paint is the most common and environmentally responsible paint option.
Pros
- Dries quickly
- Low odor from VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
- Easy to clean up with soap and water
- Non-toxic
- Durable
Cons
- Not as resistant to fading or chipping as oil-based paints
What Paint Finish Is Best?
A semi-gloss finish offers a durable and hard-wearing surface that is resistant to scratches, fading, and stains.
Semi-gloss paint has a higher sheen than flat or eggshell paint but is not as shiny as high-gloss paint. It strikes the perfect balance between durability and aesthetic appeal, making it an ideal option for high-traffic areas like doors.
One of the main advantages of using semi-gloss paint on aluminum doors is that it is highly resistant to moisture and humidity.
Being metal, aluminum doors are prone to rust and corrosion, which can be prevented by using a semi-gloss paint that acts as a protective layer. Additionally, its reflective properties make it easier to clean and maintain, as it resists dirt and stains.
The Best Paint and Primer for an Aluminum Door
Best Paint
Zinsser Perma-White Mold & Mildew-Proof Exterior Paint is an excellent choice for painting aluminum doors. Not only is it a high-performance 100% acrylic paint, but it is also specifically formulated to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Aluminum doors are often exposed to a lot of moisture, which can lead to corrosion and wear over time. By using PERMA-WHITE on your aluminum door, you can protect it from the damaging effects of moisture while also giving it a durable, long-lasting finish.
One of the advantages of this paint is that it is self-priming, meaning you don’t have to spend additional time and expense sanding and priming your aluminum door before painting. This not only saves you time but also ensures that the paint sticks to the surface of the door properly.
In terms of color options, it is tintable to any off-white, pastel, or medium earth tone color. This means that you can choose the perfect color for your aluminum door, ensuring that it looks fantastic for years to come.
In addition to its paint film being guaranteed mold and mildew-proof for 5 years and its durable, long-lasting finish is guaranteed for 15 years, Zinsser Perma-White Mold & Mildew-Proof Exterior Paint is also fade-resistant and resists dirt and moisture.
This all-purpose paint is suitable for use in commercial and industrial environments, as well as residential properties.
Best Primer
Rust-Oleum Universal Special Metals Primer is a superior product that is the perfect primer solution for painting aluminum doors.
This advanced formula has been developed to provide a smooth, protective basecoat that is ideal for hard-to-coat metal surfaces. The primer’s hard-wearing nature ensures that it will last for years to come, providing a reliable and durable coating.
One of the standout features of this primer is that it has been specifically formulated to bond with surfaces that are difficult for other primers to adhere to.
This means that it can be used on a range of metals (including galvanized and non-ferrous metals), making it an incredibly versatile product.
In addition to its impressive bonding properties, the primer also has several other benefits. For example, it is touch dry in just one hour, making it perfect for situations where speed is of the essence.
The primer also dries to a flat finish, which provides a visually appealing overall finish and helps create an even surface for the application of topcoats.
The versatility of Rust-Oleum Universal Special Metals Primer also extends to its application method. It can be applied by brush, roller, or spray, making it easy to use and accessible to all.
Furthermore, it is an all-in-one coating, meaning that it can be used on previously painted surfaces to quickly and effectively refresh the look and feel of your aluminum door.