How to Antique a Masonite Door

Metal doors do not have to appear cold and sterile.

With the right materials, you can give a Masonite door an antiqued appearance. Masonite specializes in fiberglass and metal doors for the interior and exterior of homes and offices. The materials in the doors offer durability and some offer sound proofing. The down side of these doors may be the finishing techniques available. For both metal and fiberglass doors, crackle finish or distressing may be used to give them an antique appearance.

Things You'll Need

• Mineral spirits
• Clean rags
• Dish detergent
• Oil-based paint
• Crackle glaze
• Natural bristle paint brushes
• Latex top coat
• Steel wool
• Gloves
• Respirator

Instructions

Preparation

1. Prepare the Masonite door for painting by cleaning with mineral spirits. Apply mineral spirits with a clean rag and rub in a circular motion. Allow to dry until no smell from the mineral spirits is apparent.

2. Wash the door with a mild detergent. Mix a few drops of dish washing detergent in 2 cups of water and clean the entire door. Rinse well with clear running water.

3. Let the door stand to dry for at least 2 hours. Do not towel dry.

Crackle Finish

1. Paint the door with an oil-based paint. Begin with a darker shade. Completely coat the door and allow it to dry for 24 hours.

2. Apply a crackle glaze. Use a natural bristle brush and go only in one direction with the brush. Coat the entire door with the glaze and allow to dry for several hours. Apply a second coat and allow to dry.

3. Use a latex top coat over the crackle glaze in a lighter color than the base. The top layer will begin to crack, giving the door an antique or old appearance.

Distressing

1. Apply a base coat to the door. Use an oil-based paint in the desired color. Select a darker color than the intended top coat. Allow to dry. Add a second coat and allow to dry.

2. Apply the top coat. Use a lighter color oil-based paint. It may not cover the base color. This is normal and part of the process. Allow the top coat to dry.

3. Rub the door with steel wool. Once the top coat is dry, distress the layer by rubbing steel wool back and forth across the area to form a grain look. The bottom layer will begin to show through and the door will appear antique or old.

Tips & Warnings

• Work on one side of the door at a time. Apply the selected faux technique to one side completely and allow it to dry before beginning the other side.

• Using mineral spirits may produce fumes. Work in a well ventilated area and wear gloves and a respirator.

References

• Strassburger: How to Paint Steel and Fiberglass Entry Systems
• Micheals: Faux Finishing Tips and Techniques

Resources

• Masonite: Door Architectural Specifications