Fiberglass steps are a popular choice for homeowners because of their lightweight construction and long-term weather resistance. But no material is entirely safe from the elements, and if your fiberglass steps are showing signs of wear, it may be time to paint them.
Fortunately, painting fiberglass steps is simple and instantly improves the appearance of your home’s exterior. Read on to learn more about the process of painting fiberglass steps and what to expect during your DIY project.
Why Paint Fiberglass?
Fiberglass contains fine glass fibers that manufacturers weave into a fabric and set in a plastic resin. This gives fiberglass its strength and weather resistance, but UV rays, moisture, and daily wear can still cause fiberglass steps to fade, crack, or develop a chalky surface over time.
To fix this, homeowners can paint their exterior fiberglass steps. A coat of paint not only refreshes the appearance of fiberglass but can also extend the life of the steps by adding a layer of protection.
Still, painting fiberglass is not as straightforward as painting wood or metal. You will need to use the right steps to get it to stick well and last a long time.
How Often Should I Paint Fiberglass Steps?
If it’s been longer than five or 10 years since you last painted your exterior steps, it’s probably time for a fresh coat. And if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you may need to paint more frequently.
The same rule applies to painting plastic or vinyl exterior shutters. When in doubt, trust your eyes. If they look like they need some paint, it’s time to paint.
Preparing for the Project
Before you pick up a paintbrush, you’ll need to gather all your materials and prepare the work area. Don’t cut any corners, since the right materials will help your paint job stand the test of time.
Tools and Materials Needed
To paint fiberglass steps, you’ll need:
- Medium-grit sandpaper
- Mineral spirits
- Clean rags
- Exterior oil-based bonding primer suitable for fiberglass
- Exterior 100% acrylic latex paint
- Non-slip sand texture additive
- Paint brushes and rollers
- A drop cloth
- Painter’s tape
- Safety gear (gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask)
Safety Precautions
Working with paints and solvents may not seem dangerous, but it’s still important to prioritize safety. Always work in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation of fumes. Also, wear protective gear to guard your skin and eyes, and keep children and pets away from the work zone to prevent accidents.
For more safety information, refer to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s guide to chemicals and other hazards in painting.
Step-by-Step Painting Process
Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to start painting. Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Sand the Surface
Start by sanding the fiberglass steps with medium-grit sandpaper to remove the glossy finish and create a slightly rough surface for the primer to adhere to. Sand until the steps feel smooth to the touch and have a dull appearance.
2. Clean the Steps
After sanding, remove all dust and debris by dampening a clean rag with mineral spirits and thoroughly wiping down the steps. This will give you a clean surface for painting and improve paint adhesion.
3. Apply Primer
Choose a high-quality, exterior, oil-based bonding primer that’s suitable for use on plastic or fiberglass surfaces. Apply the primer evenly using a brush or roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time.
4. Paint the Steps
Once the primer dries fully, it’s time to apply the topcoat. Use a quality exterior 100% acrylic latex paint for best results. Apply two thin coats, allowing proper drying time between coats as per the paint manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. Add Non-Slip Texture
Once your first two coats are dry, you should add a non-slip sand texture additive to your final coat of paint to prevent the steps from becoming slippery when wet. You can purchase this additive at most paint supply stores.
Mix the additive into the paint according to the product instructions. Then, paint the final coat, making sure to cover the steps entirely.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When painting fiberglass steps, make sure to watch out for the following mistakes:
Skipping the Sanding Step
One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is failing to properly sand the fiberglass surface before painting. Without this step, the primer and paint may not adhere properly, leading to peeling and chipping over time.
Using the Wrong Type of Paint
Using interior paint or paint that isn’t suitable for plastic or fiberglass surfaces can result in poor adhesion. Always use exterior-grade products that are fit for these materials. If you don’t, your paint may peel off very quickly.
Applying Paint Too Thickly
Thick layers of paint are more prone to peeling and can cover the texture of the steps. To fix this, apply thin, even coats for the best durability and appearance.
Painting During Bad Weather Conditions
It’s best to paint outdoors on a dry day with moderate temperatures. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or when rain is in the forecast for the next 24 hours to ensure proper drying and curing.
Final Thoughts About Painting Exterior Fiberglass Steps
Painting exterior fiberglass steps isn’t difficult, but a lot can go wrong if you don’t follow the steps properly. If you use the wrong kind of paint or you don’t include a non-slip additive, your simple paint job could cause you plenty of problems down the road.
Still, if you get it right, this easy DIY project can transform the appearance of your home’s exterior and extend the life of your steps for years.
