Painting Doors

Wood doors must be painted (or sealed) on all six sides. That's right -- front, back, top, bottom, and both edges. Unpainted door tops and bottoms absorb moisture and can cause cracking, warping, and paint failure, especially on exterior doors. Doors frequently get cut off when new carpeting is installed or when a new threshold is installed. If the bottom of the door wasn't painted before it was hung back, you may be able to paint it in place. Start by protecting the floor with plastic -- a trash bag works well. Swing the door open and check the clearance between the door bottom and the floor (an inch will do). Use a "slimjim" roller or a foam brush to apply the paint to the bottom of the door. You can check door bottoms with a small inspection mirror.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2001