How to strip your Front door!
Give Your Front Door a Fresh Start
Ready to change your front door?
We’re not just talking about paint — we’re talking about giving your home a whole new welcome.
The front door is the first impression your home makes. It says something about you, your style, and your weekend DIY skills (no pressure 😄). With a few simple steps, you can turn “meh” into “wow!” — and DIY Hardware is here to help.
🛠️ Step 1: Strip It Like a Pro
Got layers of old paint or varnish clinging on for dear life? Time to strip things down.
You’ve got two great options:
A high-quality wood stripper does most of the work for you — just apply, wait, and scrape away the years. Or, if you’re up for a bit more action, a heat gun is a powerful (and oddly satisfying) way to loosen stubborn finishes fast.
👉 Before you begin, be sure to remove any hardware — handles, locks, kick plates — and pop them somewhere safe if you plan to reuse them.
Once you’ve stripped the surface, wash the door down to remove any residue, and let it dry completely before moving on.
🧰 At DIY Hardware – your go-to DIY shop – we stock both wood strippers and heat guns that actually get the job done.
Jackie offered the following comments about the Richardson scraper which is why we included it in our list of product options below:
- It is more expensive but it is built to last.
- You can replace the blades, and we stock replacements.
- When using the Richardson scraper you tend to pull the scraper toward you rather than pushing away from your body. The result is a more pleasant experience with less muscle jarring, and a sometimes smoother finish.
✨ Step 2: Sand That Door Smooth
Next up: sanding.
Grab some sandpaper (or a power sander if you’re feeling fancy) and smooth out the surface. You’re aiming for a clean, even feel — like new, but with character.
🔧 Start with 60–80 grit, then finish off with 100–120 grit.
💡 Tips: Don’t rush it. Put on your favourite playlist and get into the rhythm — it’s oddly satisfying. Also don’t skip it, sanding helps wood primer adhere to the wood.
🪵 Step 3: Fill the Gaps
Got dings, chips, or mystery dents from years gone by?
No problem — just grab a wood filler and a putty knife. Patch it up, smooth it down, and admire your handiwork. You’ll feel like a pro.
💡 Tip: Make sure the filler is dry and then sand the area. Then wipe down with a clean cloth and let the door dry.
🎨 Step 4: Prime Time
Before you dive into colour, don’t skip the primer.
It might seem like a boring step, but trust us — it’s the secret to a long-lasting, beautiful finish.
Primer seals the wood, blocks stains, and helps your paint stick like it means it. For front doors, go for an exterior primer — built to handle sunshine, rain, and everything in between.
🧰 What You’ll Need:
✔️ Wood stripper
✔️ Sandpaper (coarse + fine)
✔️ Sanding block or power sander
✔️ Wood filler
✔️ Putty knife or paint scraper
✔️ Exterior wood primer
🌟 Wrap-Up
This whole prep process can be done in a weekend — and once you’re done, your front door will be ready for the transformation it deserves.
Keep an eye out for Part 2: Painting & Finishing Tips — coming soon from DIY Hardware: The Do It Yourself Shop.