How can I restore the luster of my oxidized copper-colored steel doors?
Asked by Yar Migovich 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 28, 2024
A while back, we had a contractor paint our two steel exterior doors with automobile paint. It seemed like a good idea at the time. However, over the years, the doors have oxidized pretty badly. They were originally painted a copper/rust color, so the oxidation isn’t super noticeable, but they have definitely lost their shine. The oxidation comes off easily with a rag, but it feels like a never-ending task.
I’ve tried wiping them down, but I’m not sure if it’s making a difference. Should I attempt to wipe them down and repaint them? Is there a product that might help with the oxidation? And what type of paint should I use if I decide to repaint them? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
If they used auto paint, maybe try using automotive products to get rid of oxidation and then apply wax?
I was actually just pondering the same thing. I might have to swing by an auto parts store. Interestingly, my son works in autobody repair and he didn’t have any suggestions on the type of paint to use over it.
Do you think it really requires painting? Those auto products could work wonders in cleaning it up and giving it a nice shine.🤔
Hey , you’re definitely at the top of my list. This idea/response is truly my favorite.
I’m thinking about removing the oxidation.
You can try searching on Google for “how to remove oxidation from car paint”. There are plenty of products and videos available. Best of luck!
I think I did that, but it was a while ago so I’m not entirely sure. I’ll check it out. Maybe I’ll stop by an auto parts store. Thanks!
When it comes to repainting, the process typically involves cleaning, lightly sanding, applying primer, and then painting. I recommend using urethane paint and STIX bonding primer, followed by Corotec Command (all from Ben Moore). SW Emerald Exterior is also a good option.
If auto paint was used, maybe you should have been waxing it? Just a suggestion
🤷🏼♀️ perhaps I ought to. It never crossed my mind.
Auto paint seems unbelievable. Oxidizing after two years? My car has had auto paint for almost ten years and no oxidation.
It was actually more than two years ago. Just stumbled upon a picture from 2015. You do bring up a good point about the extreme temperatures and daily morning sun. It does seem a bit too much. I wish I had known to trust the guy who did it, so you may have a point! What type of paint would oxidize like that? 🤔 I’ll look into it further.
I’m sorry, I didn’t read your post closely. It seems like the important thing now is fixing the paint. Have you thought about lightly sanding the doors and applying a coat of Rustoleum to freshen them up?
No worries! I’ll reach out to an auto supply store to get their advice on how to remove the oxidation. You may have noticed that I’m not rushing to tackle this task. I’ve also thought about replacing the doors, but I don’t think that idea will work out… 😉