[alexandersh]

does anyone know how best to faux paint garage doors?

 

[waynech]

The following steps depend on eventual stain color. First, apply a base coat ( lighter color for lighter stain. Then apply a gel stain. Finally, apply a clear coat to protect the gel stain. Good luck.

 

[alexandersh]

I had hoped to do one coat of gel stain and use the fake wood tool, then go back over with the same color gel stain so not so contrasting. Will this work? thanks

 

[austinpieterson]

Hi alexandersh,
I agree with your ideas. I am sure that it will work better. Please proceed with your decisions.

Regards
Austin Pieterson

 

[ArthurM]

Graining ext doors

A couple of things I would like add here is when doing a graining on an exterior surface be sure that the product you are using is "colorfast" meaning that the proper pigments are in place for an exterior surface to prevent from fading
Most gel stains are for interior use and are not color fast because they sometimes contain dyes rather than pigments.
I live in Soutwest Florida and it is not recommended to use oil base products on exterior metal doors and will void the door warrenty so check the door manufacturers label on the backside of your overhead door before you procede.
The key to a successful job is to keep the door cool while applying your finish.
I have grained many a door in my 30 plus years of experience and what I do is stand a couple of extension ladders in front of the overhead door and clamp drop clothes to the front of the ladders with the strong spring clamps to create the shade that is needed, but be sure it isnt windy when you do this other wise you are creating a huge kite lol

 

[drgerry]

question about mixing colors:

instead of using a stain, can you use exterior paint that has been thinned? If so, what is the best thinner? Mineral Spirits? Or, can you mix it with an exterior urethane?