Best Fiberglass Door Paint

Fiberglass doors are a popular choice for homeowners because they offer durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. Over time, however, the paint on fiberglass doors can begin to fade, chip, or peel, especially if exposed to harsh weather conditions. To restore the door’s appearance and protect it from further damage, it’s important to choose the right fiberglass door paint that can withstand the elements and maintain its look for years to come.

We’ll explore the best types of paints for fiberglass doors, what features to look for, and some top recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

Why Do You Need Special Paint for Fiberglass Doors?

Fiberglass doors are different from wooden or metal doors in that they have a smooth, non-porous surface. This characteristic can make them a bit trickier to paint, as the paint needs to adhere properly to avoid peeling or chipping over time. Special fiberglass door paints are designed to bond with the smooth surface of the fiberglass, providing a durable, long-lasting finish.

Here are a few reasons why choosing the right paint for fiberglass doors is important:

1. Durability: Fiberglass doors are often exposed to various weather conditions, including rain, snow, wind, and intense sunlight. The right paint ensures that the door resists fading, peeling, and chipping, even with exposure to the elements.
2. Aesthetics: A well-painted fiberglass door can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. The paint should provide an even, smooth finish that complements the rest of your home’s exterior.
3. UV Protection: Some paints are specially formulated to resist UV rays, preventing the door from fading over time.
4. Ease of Application: Paints that are specifically designed for fiberglass doors are formulated to go on smoothly without streaking or requiring extensive preparation.
5. Protection: The right paint can help protect your fiberglass door from damage caused by moisture, dirt, and other environmental factors.

Features to Look for in the Best Fiberglass Door Paint

When selecting the best paint for fiberglass doors, there are a few key features to keep in mind:

1. Adhesion: Since fiberglass is non-porous, it can be difficult for paint to adhere properly. Look for a paint that is designed to bond well with smooth surfaces like fiberglass.
2. Durability: Choose a paint that can withstand extreme temperatures and moisture. This is particularly important if your fiberglass door is exposed to harsh outdoor conditions.
3. Finish Options: Fiberglass doors can be painted with a variety of finishes, including matte, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Your choice will depend on the look you’re aiming for and how easy it is to maintain.
4. UV Protection: Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause paint to fade and degrade over time. Some paints contain UV blockers that help prevent fading and maintain the color over time.
5. Ease of Application: Ideally, you want a paint that is easy to apply, provides smooth coverage, and dries quickly. This will make your painting process easier and more efficient.
6. Moisture Resistance: Given that fiberglass doors are often exposed to outdoor conditions, the paint should be able to withstand moisture without peeling or blistering.

Top 5 Best Fiberglass Door Paints

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the best paints available for fiberglass doors.

1. Rust-Oleum Door and Trim Paint

Overview: Rust-Oleum is a trusted brand when it comes to high-quality paints for exterior use. Their Door and Trim Paint is specially formulated for smooth surfaces like fiberglass, wood, and metal. This paint is designed to provide a long-lasting finish and excellent durability.

• Features:
  • High-adhesion formula for smooth surfaces like fiberglass.
  • Provides a smooth, durable finish that resists chipping, fading, and peeling.
  • Available in satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes.
  • Ideal for doors, trim, and shutters.
  • Moisture-resistant and can handle extreme weather conditions.
• Best For: Homeowners looking for an affordable, high-performance paint that provides excellent protection and a durable finish on their fiberglass doors.
• Why We Like It: Rust-Oleum’s Door and Trim Paint is known for its excellent coverage and lasting durability. It’s easy to apply and dries quickly, making it perfect for people who want to refresh their fiberglass doors without the hassle.

2. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint

Overview: Benjamin Moore is a premium paint brand with a reputation for producing high-quality, long-lasting paints. Their Aura Exterior Paint is an excellent choice for fiberglass doors, providing exceptional coverage, protection, and vibrant color.

• Features:
  • Proprietary technology for excellent adhesion to fiberglass surfaces.
  • Superior UV protection to prevent fading over time.
  • Provides a smooth, durable finish that resists chipping and peeling.
  • Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.
  • Fast-drying formula that’s easy to apply.
• Best For: Homeowners who want a high-end, premium paint that offers superior protection against UV rays and the elements.
• Why We Like It: The Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint offers excellent durability and an impressive finish. The formula resists fading, which is important for maintaining the look of your fiberglass door for years.

3. Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint and Primer

Overview: Behr is another popular paint brand that offers Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint with built-in primer. This paint is designed for use on a variety of surfaces, including fiberglass doors, and it provides long-lasting protection against the elements.

• Features:
  • 2-in-1 formula with built-in primer for better adhesion.
  • Excellent coverage and durability.
  • Resists mildew, fading, and peeling.
  • Available in multiple finishes (satin, semi-gloss, and gloss).
  • Low VOC formula for a healthier painting environment.
• Best For: Homeowners looking for a paint and primer combination that simplifies the painting process while providing long-lasting results.
• Why We Like It: Behr Premium Plus Ultra offers great value for those looking for a reliable paint that provides both excellent coverage and protection against the elements. It’s easy to use and gives a professional finish.

4. Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Paint

Overview: Sherwin-Williams is known for its top-tier paint products, and their Duration Exterior Paint is no exception. This paint is formulated to provide a tough, long-lasting finish, making it ideal for fiberglass doors exposed to harsh weather conditions.

• Features:
  • Advanced formula for superior adhesion and durability.
  • Resists cracking, peeling, and fading.
  • Exceptional protection against the elements, including moisture and UV rays.
  • Available in multiple finishes, including satin, semi-gloss, and gloss.
  • Low VOC and easy to clean.
• Best For: Those who want a professional-grade paint with exceptional performance and long-lasting results.
• Why We Like It: Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Paint is perfect for high-traffic areas and doors exposed to the elements. It provides excellent adhesion to fiberglass and offers long-term protection against wear and weather.

5. Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint

Overview: Valspar’s Duramax Exterior Paint is another excellent choice for fiberglass doors. This paint provides excellent durability and protection while offering smooth coverage with minimal effort.

• Features:
  • Provides a tough, protective coating that resists fading, peeling, and chipping.
  • Ideal for use on a variety of surfaces, including fiberglass, wood, and metal.
  • Mildew and moisture-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor use.
  • Available in a wide range of finishes, including satin and gloss.
  • Low odor and low VOC formula.
• Best For: Homeowners who need a versatile paint that provides exceptional protection against harsh weather conditions and is easy to maintain.
• Why We Like It: Valspar Duramax is a durable, long-lasting paint that works well on fiberglass doors. It offers great coverage, prevents fading, and protects the door from moisture and mildew.

How to Paint Your Fiberglass Door

To achieve the best results when painting your fiberglass door, follow these steps:

1. Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the door to remove dirt, grime, and old paint. Use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the door.
2. Sand the Surface: Lightly sand the surface to create a rough texture that helps the paint adhere better. Use fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the fiberglass.
3. Prime the Door (If Necessary): If you’re using a paint without a built-in primer, apply a bonding primer specifically formulated for fiberglass surfaces. This will improve adhesion and help the paint last longer.
4. Apply the Paint: Use a high-quality brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the paint. Work in thin, even layers to avoid drips and streaks. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats.
5. Allow the Paint to Cure: Let the paint cure for the recommended time before exposing the door to weather or heavy use. This ensures the paint bonds properly and provides a durable finish.

Conclusion

The best fiberglass door paint should provide excellent adhesion, durability, and protection against the elements. Popular brands like Rust-Oleum, Benjamin Moore, and Behr offer high-quality paints that ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish. When selecting a paint, consider factors like durability, UV protection, moisture resistance, and ease of application.

By choosing the right paint and following proper preparation and application steps, you can enhance the appearance of your fiberglass door and protect it for years to come.