Yes, you can spray door furniture to refresh its appearance and extend its lifespan. As highlighted by experts, spray-painting doorknobs can breathe a new lease of life into them, especially when they start looking worn or tired.
What is Door Furniture?
Door furniture refers to the functional and decorative hardware attached to a door. It typically includes:
- Door Knobs
- Door Handles (Levers)
- Hinges
- Escutcheons (Keyhole Covers)
- Door Pulls
- Latches and Bolts
Over time, these elements can show signs of wear, scratches, or tarnishing, particularly on high-use items like doorknobs made of materials like brass, which can age quickly.
Why Spray Door Furniture?
Spraying door furniture offers several benefits:
- Cost-Effective Update: Gives doors a new look without replacing expensive hardware.
- Revitalizes Old Hardware: Covers imperfections, scratches, and tarnishing.
- Color Customization: Allows you to match or contrast with your door and room decor.
- Protection: A good quality paint can add a layer of protection against minor wear.
How to Spray Door Furniture Effectively
Achieving a durable and professional finish requires proper preparation and technique.
Preparation is Key
- Remove Hardware: It is highly recommended to remove the door furniture from the door. This allows for complete coverage and prevents paint from getting on the door.
- Clean Thoroughly: Clean the items to remove dirt, grease, and grime. Use a degreaser if necessary.
- Sand (If Needed): Lightly sand any areas with significant imperfections or peeling existing paint to create a smooth surface and help the new paint adhere.
- Prime: Apply a suitable primer, especially for metal surfaces. This improves paint adhesion and durability. Choose a primer designed for the material you are spraying (metal, wood, plastic).
Spraying Process
- Use Appropriate Paint: Select a spray paint designed for high-traffic areas and the specific material of your door furniture. Metal paints, durable enamels, or paints specifically labelled for hardware are good choices.
- Apply Thin Coats: Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. This prevents drips and runs and results in a smoother, more durable finish. Allow each coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before applying the next.
- Spray in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure good ventilation or spray outdoors. Use a drop cloth or protective sheeting to cover the surrounding area.
- Allow Adequate Drying/Curing Time: Follow the paint can's instructions for drying and curing times before reattaching the hardware. Rushing this step can lead to the paint scratching or peeling easily.
Considerations for Different Furniture Types
While doorknobs and handles are commonly sprayed, hinges, escutcheons, and pulls can also be painted. Ensure moving parts are masked off or painted carefully to avoid gumming up the mechanism.
| Door Furniture Type | Common Issues | Suitable for Spraying? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doorknobs | Wear, tarnishing | Yes | Prime well for metal types like brass. |
| Door Handles | Scratches, fading | Yes | Similar to knobs, good prep is crucial. |
| Hinges | Rust, chipped paint | Yes | Can be tricky; requires removal. |
| Escutcheons | Scratches | Yes | Easier than functional parts. |
| Door Pulls | Wear, grime buildup | Yes | Clean thoroughly before painting. |
By following these steps, you can successfully spray door furniture, giving your doors an updated look and prolonging the life of your hardware.
