Is your door looking dull, outdated or in need of a refresh?

Expensive replacement is not only the only option.

Spraying your UPVC door, offers a cost-effective and efficient method to enhance the appearance of your door, providing a smooth, durable finish that can maintain its quality for years.

In this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the essential materials and preparation steps to the spraying process itself, as well as maintenance tips to ensure your newly refreshed door stays looking its best for the long term.  

Key considerations before you start

Whilst UPVC spraying is suitable for most doors, it is important to take the following factors into account to ensure the best possible results:

• Weather & Environment: Spray paint works best in dry, moderate temperatures. You should avoid painting in direct sunlight, high humidity or windy conditions.
• Curing Time: You need to allow sufficient time for drying and curing between coats.
• Door Access: The sprayed UPVC door will be out of action whilst in the process of drying so ensure you have alternative access to the property.
• Door Condition: Weathered doors will require extra preparation to create a suitable surface to achieve the smoothest finish.

Failure to consider these factors will impact the quality of your finish.

What materials and equipment will I need?

A successful UPVC spray job requires the following equipment and materials:

Step	Materials / Equipment
Cleaning	Mild detergent, water bucket, soft cloths
Sanding	Sandpaper, sanding block, tack cloth
Masking	Masking tape, paper or plastic sheets, drop cloth
Priming	UPVC primer
Painting	Spray paint (UPVC or multi-surface)
Finishing	Clear topcoat, small brushes

Spraying a UPVC door: A step-by-step guide

Step 1 – Prepare the surrounding area

To prepare the surrounding area of the door, lay down drop cloths or old sheets.

You should use plastic sheets or cardboard to shield walls, plants and decorations from overspray.

Step 2 – Clean the door

Wash down the door with soapy water or a mild detergent as any dirt and debris will impact the final finish.

Ensure the door is properly dried before continuing.

Step 3 – Mask off hardware

Mask handles, locks, letterboxes, glass panes and hinges using high-quality masking tape to seal edges carefully, ensuring there are no gaps where paint could seep through.

Overspray can travel further than expected so cover a wider area than you think is necessary, shielding adjacent surfaces, brickwork and flooring.

Step 4 – Sand the door

Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the entire door with gentle, even pressure.

The aim is to dull the surface, creating a reliable key for the paint without removing the material.

Step 5 – Apply the primer

Apply thin, even coats of the primer to the door.

Avoid pooling at the edges and corners and let it dry fully before moving onto the next step.

Step 6 – Appling the paint

Using a spray can or a spray gun, hold it 20-30cm from the surface.

Apply multiple thin coats instead of one heavy coat to avoid drips but allow each coat to dry before the next.

Too much paint at one time can cause runs, sags or uneven texture.

Step 7 – Remove masking

Once the sprayed door has dried fully, which normally takes between 24-48 hours, you can begin to remove the masking tape.

Removing the masking too early can smudge the finish, whilst leaving it too long can cause the pain to lift at the edges.

Step 8 – Protective topcoat

A protective topcoat will add durability and weather resistance to the sprayed UPVC.

Its purpose is to protect the paint finish and extend its lifespan.

Maintenance tips for keeping your sprayed UPVC door looking fresh

Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan and appearance of your sprayed UPVC door.

To keep the finish looking its best, you should:

• Clean the door regularly using a mild detergent and warm water
• Inspect the surface periodically for signs of chips, scratches or peeling
• Protect the door from impact by avoiding knocks or contact with sharp or heavy objects

For more information on maintenance and aftercare for your sprayed UPVC, read our article.

Professional UPVC door spraying

Whilst spraying UPVC is a skill that can be learned, achieving a flawless, long-lasting finish requires specialist equipment, and controlled working conditions.

Professional application ensures consistent coverage, superior adhesion, and a durable result that stands up to everyday use and exposure to the elements.

At Spray Vue our professional UPVC spraying services range from a full house, windows, doors, porches, garage doors, conservatories, soffits, fascias and guttering.

Our team is committed to delivering the highest standards, offering a ten-year warranty on all our work.

Get in touch today to revitalise your door!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sliding doors be spray painted?

Yes your sliding doors can be spray painted. The process will be largely the same as standard hinged, front and back doors.

Can you still use your door after it’s been sprayed?

After the UPVC has been sprayed, the door should be left to cure. Once the curing process is complete, your door can be used as normal.

Can we respray or spray paint UPVC doors that have already been painted?

Yes, we can respray UPVC doors that have previously been painted. To ensure a smooth and adherent surface for the new coats of paint, we will clean and sand down your existing door and frame.