How to Paint a Gate

Painting your gate is a great way to give the exterior of your home a mini-makeover. It will give your house and yard a fresh new look and feel with minimal effort and money. Make painting your gate as stress-free as possible while ensuring your gate ends up looking its best by following the instructions below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Exterior primer
• Exterior paint
• Paintbrush (small to medium size)
• Paint roller

1. Start by laying down a large piece of plastic underneath the gate. Try to use a piece that is large enough to cover both sides of the gate so that you don't have to move it when you switch sides. Place rocks or other heavy objects on top of the plastic to keep it from blowing around.

2. Tape off the sides of the house, fence or other structures that the gate is adjacent to using a wide painter's tape. This way you won't have to worry about painting anything but the gate itself.

3. Use a primer to cover any exposed pieces of wood or metal on your gate. You will also need to prime any parts that have never been painted, such as a replacement board on a wood fence. Choose a primer that is designed for outdoor use.

4. Apply the primer using a handheld paintbrush, which is more effective than a roller for spot painting. Hold the brush as you would a pencil for maximum maneuverability and minimum discomfort.

5. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the paint.

6. Paint the gate using a paint roller to cover the most amount of space in the least amount of time. Use a roller extension pole to make your job easier. Don't forget to make sure that your paint is for outdoor use.

7. Touch up pieces of hardware or any other spots that need it with a handheld brush after you have finished painting the rest of the gate. Also use the handheld brush to get into all of the nooks and crannies that you couldn't reach with the roller.

Tips & Warnings

• Priming your gate will help the paint adhere better and potentially prevent having to apply two coats.
• Consider using a spray gun to paint your fence, especially if you have a lot of area to cover.
• Make sure that the surfaces to be painted are clean and dry before painting.
• If you use an oil-based primer or paint, you will need to use a paint or lacquer thinner to get the paint off your brushes. Wearing gloves, put some of the thinner in a bowl then wash your brush around in it. Rinse off the brushes with water after the paint has been removed.