Let’s be real — your garage door is probably the first thing people see when they drive past your house. If it’s faded, peeling, or just plain boring, a fresh coat of paint can totally change the look of your home. And in sunny California, your garage door takes a beating from the weather, so giving it some love every few years is a must.

Here are my top 5 tips for painting your garage door straight from someone who actually did it last weekend.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day (Seriously, Timing Is Everything)
California sun can be brutal. Don’t paint in the middle of the day when your door feels like a frying pan. Early morning or late afternoon is your best bet. You don’t want the paint drying too fast and leaving streaks.

2. Clean It Like You Mean It
Before you even think about opening that paint can, wash your garage door. Dust, spiderwebs, and old dirt can ruin the finish. I used a bucket of warm water, a bit of dish soap, and a soft brush. Rinse it well and let it dry completely.

3. Don’t Skip the Primer (Especially If You’re Going From Dark to Light)
I made this mistake once — never again. If your garage door is metal or has a dark color underneath, a good primer is key. It helps the paint stick better and gives you a smooth, even color. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step.

4. Use Exterior Paint Made for Garage Doors
This isn’t a wall inside your house. Garage doors expand and contract with the heat, especially in California. Use exterior acrylic latex paint or something specifically labeled for garage doors. I went with a satin finish so it looked clean but not too shiny.

5. Use a Roller and a Brush for the Details
Start with a roller to cover the big flat areas, then use a brush for the edges, corners, and panel details. Two coats always look better than one. Let it dry in between — I waited about 6 hours before doing the second coat.

Final Thought

Painting your garage door isn’t a huge project, but it makes a huge difference. And in a place like California, where curb appeal really matters, it’s a smart and affordable way to freshen up your home.

If your garage door is beyond paint and needs real help — like repair or replacement — we’re always here for that too.