There always comes a time in the life of a homeowner when the façade needs a facelift. One quick and easy way to accomplish this is by repainting the front door. Depending on the doors species of wood, there are a few different options to consider. What to know before painting a mahogany door includes determining the best method for restoration, completing basic restorative care, and then finally beginning the repainting.

Painting Versus Re-staining: Which Is Best?

Few kinds of wood are as prized as mahogany. It’s a gorgeous species that’s been loved and used to adorn our homes for centuries. Its legacy began in 1514, and it has been used to create fine furniture and ornamental structures and doors ever since. This species is so beloved for its rich dark hues, fantastic durability, and gorgeous grains.

With so much beauty to offer, deciding to paint over it is a decision that should be weighed carefully. A worn-looking wooden door can be easily restored to shining beauty. On the other hand, paint, much like a stain, is removable if the original look is desired again in the future.

Essential Restoration Prep

What to know before painting a mahogany door comes down to properly assessing and accounting for the condition of the door. As noted, only the most extreme cases of deterioration can’t be fully restored. If your mahogany solid wood entry door was damaged by weather or the sun, it should be carefully stripped and then refinished. Remove the door from the frame and detach any metal fixtures.

Using a coarse grit, sand away the remaining wood polish. Use a medium or coarse-grit sandpaper to remove an even layer of stain until the natural color is partially or entirely revealed. Smooth out the surface again using a fine grit. At this point, the door should look much as it did when it was new. Now, it can easily be stained, painted, or polished.

Basics of Painting a Door

As with any paint job, it’s essential to start with a primer. The primer will ensure the wood does not draw moisture out of the pigmented paint and cause flaws in the finished surface. Additionally, primers help provide an even blank canvas for the chosen tint to lay on top of.

Mixed varieties of paint with primer are commonly available. They may still require multiple coats to achieve an even appearance, though. Finally, choose a paint suitable for exterior surfaces. A house paint intended for general use or wood will work the best. If all fixtures are removed or covered up as needed, an airbrush is ideal for creating a smooth surface with no detectable brush strokes.