Door handles are a crucial element in any home, office, or establishment, not only for their functionality but also for their aesthetic value. Over time, handles can wear out, lose their shine, or simply no longer match your new décor. Instead of replacing them entirely, painting them can be a quick, cost-effective, and efficient solution to give them a fresh look.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to paint door handles step by step to achieve a professional and long-lasting finish.
1. Why Paint Door Handles?
Painting door handles can be a great option when:
- They are worn or scratched: With daily use, handles can show signs of wear. Painting them can restore a fresh, new look.
- You want to change the style: If you’re updating your interior design and the handles no longer match the new colors or furniture, a coat of paint can help them blend in with the new aesthetic.
- You want to save money: Instead of buying new handles, a more affordable option is to paint the existing ones. The result can be just as satisfying and much more budget-friendly.
- You enjoy DIY projects: If you like hands-on projects, painting handles is a simple and rewarding task that allows you to personalize your home’s details.
2. Materials Needed to Paint Door Handles
Before you start, make sure you have the right materials to achieve a quality finish and ensure the paint lasts. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Screwdriver: To remove the handles from the doors.
- Fine sandpaper (220 grit or finer): To smooth the surface and improve paint adhesion.
- Degreaser or metal cleaner: To remove dirt, grease, and residue from the handles.
- Painter’s tape: To cover areas you don’t want to paint (such as the internal mechanism of the handle).
- Spray paint specifically for metal or plastic (depending on the handle material).
- Spray primer (also suitable for metal or plastic).
- Protective mask and gloves: To protect yourself from paint fumes and dust.
- Tarp or newspaper: To protect your workspace and avoid stains on floors or furniture.
- Spray sealer (optional): To protect the paint and increase its durability.
3. Prepping Before Painting
a. Remove the Handles from the Door
The first step is to disassemble the door handles. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the handles in place. Once removed, store the screws in a safe place to prevent them from getting lost.
b. Clean and Degrease the Handles
Before applying any product, thoroughly clean the handles. Use a suitable degreaser or cleaner to remove all dirt, grease, or oil residues. This step is essential for the paint to adhere well and not peel off easily over time.
c. Sand the Handles
Once clean and dry, use fine sandpaper to smooth the surface of the handles. This process helps remove imperfections and creates a slightly rough texture, improving the paint’s adhesion. Make sure to sand all areas, including edges and hard-to-reach spots.
d. Cover Unwanted Areas
If there are parts of the handle that you don’t want to paint (such as certain decorative details or internal mechanisms), cover them with painter’s tape. This will give you a cleaner and more precise finish.
4. Applying the Primer
Primer is a crucial step to ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts longer. Follow these steps to apply the primer correctly:
a. Choose the Right Primer
Ensure you’re using a primer suitable for the handle material (metal, plastic, etc.). This will improve the paint’s adhesion and prevent issues such as chipping or bubbling.
b. Apply the Primer
Place the handles on a surface protected with a tarp or newspaper. Shake the can of spray primer well and apply it from a distance of about 8-12 inches. Use smooth, even motions to avoid product buildup. It’s better to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. Let the primer dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Painting the Door Handles
Once the primer is completely dry, it’s time to apply the paint. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.
a. Choose the Right Paint
Choosing the right paint is essential. Opt for spray paint designed for the type of material your handles are made of. Spray paints for metal or plastic are recommended because they offer a smooth finish with no brush marks, minimizing imperfections.
b. Apply the Paint
Shake the can of spray paint well before using it. Apply the paint in thin coats, moving the spray can in smooth, even motions. Keep a distance of about 8-12 inches from the handle to avoid drips or buildup. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. It’s usually recommended to apply at least two coats of paint for a uniform finish.
c. Let the Paint Dry
Drying is a critical part of the process. Don’t rush this step. Let the handles dry thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which can vary from a few hours to a full day. Make sure the paint is completely dry to the touch before handling the handles.
6. Finishing and Sealing
a. Apply a Sealer
To extend the life of the paint and protect the handles from scratches, consider applying a spray sealer. This step is especially important if the handles are on frequently used doors. Apply the sealer just like the paint, in thin, even coats. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
b. Reinstall the Handles
Once the handles are fully dry, you can reinstall them on the door. Use the screwdriver to secure them in place, making sure they’re properly aligned and tightened without over-tightening the screws.
7. Additional Tips for a Professional Finish
- Paint in a well-ventilated area: Spray paint fumes can be toxic, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated space or outdoors.
- Avoid painting on humid or rainy days: Humidity can affect the paint’s drying process, causing adhesion problems or bubbles.
- Test the paint first: If you’re unsure about the color or finish, test the paint on a small section or a similar piece of metal before painting all the handles.
