If you’re thinking about giving your front door a fresh look, you might be wondering: can you paint composite doors? The short answer is yes, but it’s not always the best idea.
Composite doors are known for their durability, low maintenance and long-lasting finish. However, while painting them is technically possible, it comes with a few catches: you’ll need to use the right products, prepare the surface properly and accept that the result may not last as long as the original factory-applied coating. That’s why at Fenbro, we always encourage homeowners to choose a door in the perfect colour from the very beginning. It saves time, effort and gives you a long-lasting, flawless finish.
So before you grab a paintbrush or spray can, let’s explore your options – and see why selecting the right colour from day one might save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
What are composite doors?
A composite door is made from a combination of materials – usually including a solid timber core, uPVC, and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP). This blend gives it excellent strength, insulation and weather resistance. Unlike traditional wooden doors, composite doors don’t absorb moisture easily and come with a durable outer layer that’s not designed to be repainted. That’s why painting them requires extra care.
Can you paint a composite front door – yes, but…
So, can you paint a composite front door? Technically, yes – but it’s not as straightforward as painting wood. Composite doors have a hard, weather-resistant outer skin, often made of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), which isn’t designed to absorb paint.If you do decide to go down this route, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Preparation is key – you’ll need to thoroughly clean the surface, lightly sand it to create grip, and degrease it with an appropriate cleaner.
- Use the right paint – only use high-quality exterior paint suitable for plastic or composite materials. Acrylic-based or polyurethane paints tend to work best.
- Expect maintenance – even if applied well, the paint may start to peel, fade or chip over time, especially on south-facing doors exposed to a lot of sun.
- It might affect your warranty – some manufacturers don’t cover painted doors under warranty, especially if the paint causes damage.
To sum it up: yes, you can do it – but you’ll need patience, the right tools, and be ready for touch-ups later on.
What is the best paint for composite doors?
The best paint for composite doors is 100% acrylic latex exterior paint or polyurethane-based paint, both offering excellent durability, flexibility and weather resistance. For optimal adhesion and long-lasting results, make sure the paint contains at least 50% acrylic resin. Always start with a high-quality adhesion primer designed for plastic or GRP surfaces. Popular DIY options include Zinsser AllCoat and Frenchic Al Fresco.
How to paint a composite door: step-by-step guide
Painting a composite door isn’t impossible – but it does take time, patience and the right tools. Here’s how to do it properly to get the best results.
Step-by-step instructions
- Clean the surface
Wash the door thoroughly with warm soapy water to remove dirt and dust. Rinse and dry completely. - Degrease
Use a degreaser to eliminate any oils, fingerprints or residues. This helps the paint adhere better. - Sand lightly
Gently sand the entire surface with fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the glossy finish. Wipe off the dust with a dry cloth. - Protect surrounding areas
Cover any nearby walls, floors and hardware (handles, letterboxes) with painter’s tape and drop cloths. - Apply primer
Use a plastic-compatible primer to prepare the surface. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. - Paint the door
Apply thin, even coats of your chosen exterior paint with a brush or foam roller. Let each coat dry before applying the next. Two coats are usually enough. - Optional: Add a topcoat
For extra durability, apply a clear protective topcoat once the paint is fully dry.
As you can see, painting a composite door requires multiple steps, careful prep and a steady hand. It’s a time-consuming process and mistakes can be hard to fix.
Can you spray a composite door?
Yes, you can spray a composite door – but it’s best left to professionals. Spray-painting requires specialist tools, proper surface prep and weather-safe paints to ensure smooth, lasting results. DIY spray jobs often result in drips, uneven coverage or poor adhesion.
Can you paint the inside of a composite door?
The inside of a composite door can be painted – using the same prep and materials as the exterior. Just remember: the same risks apply (peeling, fading), and the interior may not need painting at all if it already matches your decor.At Fenbro, you can order a composite door with different colours on each side – one for the exterior, one for the interior – so you won’t have to paint anything at all. Opting for the perfect colour combination from the beginning is usually the wiser and more lasting choice.
Better alternative – choose your perfect colour from the start
While painting is possible, the truth is – it’s rarely worth the effort. Why spend time sanding, priming and hoping for a smooth result when you can simply pick a door that’s already perfect? Fenbro offers composite doors in a wide range of RAL colours and wood-like finishes, so you can match your home’s style without lifting a brush. Our doors are factory-finished with durable coatings that resist fading, peeling and scratches. They’ll stay vibrant and beautiful for years, with no need for repainting or touch-ups.
Let’s be honest: Paint wears off – our colours don’t.
You can paint composite doors – but between the prep work, product choice and potential issues, it’s not always worth the trouble. A far better solution? Go for a factory-finished composite door in your perfect colour (or even two colours) from us. No brushes, no hassle. Just a smooth, fade-resistant finish that lasts for years.
The perfect door colour starts with a message. Contact our Sales Team for tailored recommendations and a free quote.
Want to choose a door colour that stands out and complements your home? Take a look at our full guides: how to match door colours to your home’s style and best front door colours for 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you change the colour of a composite door by painting it?
Yes, you can change the colour of a composite door, but only with proper preparation and suitable paint. Otherwise, the finish may peel, fade or look uneven over time.
Can you spray paint composite doors?
Yes, but it’s best done by professionals. DIY spray jobs often lead to poor results.
What is the best paint for composite doors?
Pick a high-quality acrylic or polyurethane-based exterior paint that’s designed for plastics or composite materials.
Can you paint the inside of a composite door?
Yes, just like the outside, but again, prep and the right paint are essential.
Will painting a composite door void the warranty?
It might. Always check with the supplier before painting.
