Rob Blair

Cell 604-617-1208 | robblair@remax.net

RSS


Choosing the Best Paint for a Steel Door

paint cans and brush

Painting your front door can give your home a major curb appeal boost, but if it’s steel, you’ll want to go about it a little bit differently than you would if it were wood or laminate. The good news: the best paint for a steel door is similar to what you would use for most any other home painting project, though you’ll want to keep some very specific factors in mind as you look at your options.

Here’s what to know before you get going so that you can pick up the right supplies and ensure your steel door ends up with an attractive and long-lasting finish.

What is the best paint for a steel door?

Most paints work well on metal with the right application process, and you should have good results with most high-quality varieties, including both water-based acrylic paints (also called latex paints) and oil-based paints (also called solvent-based paints). Look for a paint that is rust- and fade-resistant, and that is suitable for use on an exterior door.

Pros often use oil-based paints for metal surfaces, since they’re the most durable for the job. However, these types of paint are more toxic than their water-based counterparts, and require both a longer drying time and a tougher clean-up process.

It’s up to you to decide what you’re up for and what’s in your skill set as a DIYer, but here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of both types to help you choose.

Water-based (aka acrylic or latex) paints for metal

Pros

    • Fast drying
    • Easy to work with
    • Less toxic
    • Quick clean-up
    • Not prone to fading

Cons

    • Not fully rust resistant
    • Less durable over time

Oil-based paints for metal

Pros

    • Highly rust-resistant
    • Very durable

Cons

    • Faster to fade
    • Long drying time
    • Higher toxicity

All of these factors are things to keep in mind as you go about your project. If you do opt for oil-based paints, make sure to paint your steel door in a well-ventilated area (outside is best) and to wear protective gear such as a mask and gloves.

Tips for choosing paint for a metal door

    • Stick to door paint. The best paint for a steel door isn’t usually going to be your standard interior or exterior paint, since again, you want a formula that has been optimized to resist rust and fading. Rust-Oleum makes some good options, as do many other popular brands.
    • Don’t skimp on quality. This is your front door, meaning anyone who drives past your home is going to see it. It’s worth splurging a bit on quality since this is such an important part of your home’s wider appeal. Fortunately, it’s a small surface area and a couple coats of paint should be sufficient, so you likely won’t need more than a quart.
    • Consider your climate. The more wear and tear your steel front door is likely to face, the more durability you’ll need in your paint. If your door faces a strong eastern sun, for example, or if you tend to have high levels of humidity, factor those in when choosing the right paint for your project.
    • Don’t forget the finish. Just as essential as your paint type and color is its finish. Satin or semi-gloss are both good choices for a steel front door, since in addition to having a nice sheen they won’t show nicks or scratches as easily as a flat or eggshell finish.

Other supplies you need to paint a steel door

Picking out the best paint for a steel door is one part of the process, but it’s not the only thing you’ll want to be sure to grab at the store. These are the other items you’ll need.

Toolkit – While it’s not required that you remove your door completely from its frame in order to paint it, it is an important step if you want to achieve optimal results. Have a basic toolkit with you so that you can remove the hinges and hardware, and be sure to store all pieces you remove together in a bag or box so you can easily find them later on.

Degreaser – This is used to prep your steel door for painting by first stripping off any grease or oil stains on the surface.

Paint stripper or heat gun – If your metal door is already painted then you’ll want to remove that prior to adding on new layers. Whichever method you choose, work slow and with a delicate hand to ensure that you don’t accidentally scratch or otherwise damage the steel surface underneath.

Sandpaper – Sanding is key, even if you’re painting a steel door that hasn’t previously had a coat of paint on it. Go with a fine sandpaper at or around 400 grit, and use a light touch to gently buff the outer surface.

Multi-surface primer – Even the best paint for a metal door can only go so far if you don’t take the time to prime first. A multi-surface primer will work with both water- and oil-based paints, and will give you a good surface to start from—just be sure to check the directions on the can and apply enough coats (and to let your primer fully dry in between).

Other general painting supplies you’ll need for painting a steel door:

    • Painter’s tape
    • Paint roller (no bigger than 3/8” nap)
    • Angled paintbrush
    • Roller tray

Don’t forget protective painting gear too. You’ll want goggles and a mask for sanding, as well as the same items plus gloves if you’re planning to use oil-based paints.

For cleaning your paintbrushes and rollers, soap and water will work just fine for water-based paints but you’ll need to use special chemical solvents for removing oil-based paint.

FAQS about painting steel doors

If you’ve never painted metal before then you may be wary about tackling this project on your own. To help you out, we’ve got some quick answers to common questions about painting steel front doors, including some reasons you might want to call in a pro instead.

Can I use interior paint on a steel door?

Technically yes in that it will adhere, but it’s not going to offer you the best long-term results. Go with an exterior paint, or better yet, a paint that is specially formulated for painting metal surfaces, including doors.

How do you paint a steel door without removing it?

If you’d rather have your front door in place while you paint it that’s fine, but you’ll need to be extra careful—especially when it comes to ventilation. Use painter’s tape to carefully section off any hardware and keep windows open in addition to using a box fan or two to allow the air to circulate. Also make sure to keep children or pets away both while you’re painting and while each coat is drying.

How long should I wait in between coats of paint?

Applying another coat of paint before the previous one is fully dry will likely leave you with streaks or other unwanted texture. Read the directions carefully on both the paint and primer that you choose to see what the drying times are, and allow for plenty of air circulation to ensure that each coat dries efficiently.

When is it better to have a professional do the job?

This is ultimately up to you and depends on your skill level and confidence. Painting a steel front door isn’t necessarily a hard project, but it is time-consuming and—depending on the type of paint you’ve chosen—exposes you to toxins. If you’re at all concerned, call a service provider for a quote and find out if it would be worth handing off the task.

Read


Metro Vancouver homes sales slide but prices stick

With more than 15,700 homes listed for sale in a slowing market, prices may face further downward pressure

House for sale East VanSales are down, listings up and pricea are holding steady. | Western Investor

September housing sales across Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley dropped as much as 50 per cent compared to a year earlier, but benchmark home prices are holding relatively firm.

However, with more than 15,700 homes for sale in a slowing market, prices may face downward pressure.

Sales fell to 1,687 in the month, the lowest level for September since 2018, which marked the slowest sales month in 30 years, according to data from the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV).

Total transactions through the multiple listing service were down 47 per cent from a year earlier, with some markets seeing declines above 51 per cent.

Last month’s sales were 35.7 per cent below the 10-year September sales average.

 

Despite the year-over-year sales skid, the composite benchmark home price in Greater Vancouver was up 3.9 per cent from September of last year to $1.15 million.

Sales of detached houses dropped 44.7 per cent over the year, but the benchmark price was 3.8 per cent higher than a year earlier and down just 2.4 per cent from August 2022, at $1.90 million.

In the Fraser Valley, total housing sales in September nosedived 51.9 per cent compared to September 2021, but the benchmark price of a detached house was up 4.1 per cent on the year, to $1.46 million. Townhouse benchmark prices increased 11.6 per cent from a year earlier to $822,400, while condo apartment prices were up 14.5 per cent in the same period to $530,400, despite slumping sales.

Home prices across Metro Vancouver, however, have been declining by an average of about 1.5 per cent per month for the past six months, real estate data shows.

 

“There’s no question that interest rates continue to be a primary factor in the market trends over the past six months or so,” said Sandra Benz, president of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “The sales slowdown we’re seeing reflects a level of caution exercised by buyers, who are likely waiting for the market to settle further before jumping in.”

She added, “ In the meantime, we anticipate prices may continue to decline across all categories.”

Kevin Skipworth, a partner in Dexter Associates Realty of Vancouver, noted that interest rates have increased less than prices have fallen, on a percentage basis.

The average five-year fixed-rate mortgage rate increased by 1.95 per cent in the last six months, but the price of a detached house in East Vancouver has fallen 10.6 per cent and it dropped by 13.4 per cent in North Vancouverm he said, and by double-digits in East and South Burnaby, Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows and Ladner, compared to April 2022.

“The benchmark detached house price in Greater Vancouver is now $173,400 less than it was six months ago, and it has fallen by $270,000 in the Fraser Valley,” Skipworth said, “That covers a lot of mortgage payments”

Listings are increasing, which may keep prices from rallying.

In Greater Vancouver, the total number of homes currently listed is 9,971, an 8 per cent increase compared to September 2021 and up 3.2 per cent from August 2022, the REBGV reports.

There are now 5,805 homes for sale in the Fraser Valley, up 52.3 per cent compared to September of 2021, the Fraser Real Estate Board reports.

Read

This new development is set to be the tallest tower on Beresford Street (PHOTOS)

Oct 11 2022, 8:16 am
 

If, like us, you’re naturally curious about new developments in the city and surrounding area, you’ll definitely want to check out this stunning addition.

ADVERTISEMENT

The construction of one of Metrotown’s tallest residential towers, Highline Metrotown, is currently underway. And, once completed in the summer of 2023, the 48-storey building will be the highest structure on Beresford Street.

Leading real estate developer Thind is currently launching the second phase of the project — the Sky Estates collection. Spanning floors 33 to 48, this exclusive collection will consist of luxurious one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes.

Each condo will soar above Metrotown, giving residents a breathtaking view from every angle. With unobstructed views of the mountains, central Burnaby, and the water, there will be unique beauty everywhere you look.  

Elevated design

The Sky Estates homes offer a level of sophistication and elevation that rivals even the finest five-star hotels. Inside, the developer and designers have prioritized attention to detail everywhere, from functionality to luxury finishes. Imported Italian cabinetry, airy 9 ft ceilings, ultra-wide-plank laminate wood flooring, and high-efficiency heating and air-conditioning for year-round comfort are among the exceptional features in every home.

Each space also boasts a sizeable balcony, creating a desirable outdoor living area where you can take in the magnificent views. To ensure maximum privacy, roller shades are also featured in the bedrooms.

Stunning interiors

Sleek and modern interiors make for a sight almost as beautiful as the landscape outside your window. The Sky Estates kitchens are spaces you’ll truly want to spend time in, whether it’s cooking up everyday meals or hosting a dinner party with friends. Features include engineered quartz stone countertops, full-height backsplashes, abundant storage, overhead illuminated recessed lighting, and soft, under-cabinet lighting.

Bathrooms continue the elevated tone, with stainless steel rainfall glass door showers, quartz countertops, expansive mirrors, and porcelain and marble tiles — all creating a spa-like ambience. 

Amenities galore

The location of the tower in Metrotown, Burnaby — an area on its way to becoming an urban hotspot with a fast-growing population — means everything you need is within reach. Highline is just steps away from numerous cafes, parks, schools, and, of course, Metropolis at Metrotown — BC’s largest shopping mall. It’s also conveniently situated a stone’s throw from Metrotown SkyTrain Station, making commuting effortless. 

What’s more, Sky Estates residents will also have access to an on-site, full-service concierge to handle their daily needs, as well as a fully secured underground parking garage with remote entry. The building also features secure FOB entry and elevator access on each floor for residents’ safety.


Read


The gap between construction and demand is expected to be as much as 3.5 million units by 2030, Crown corporation says

CMHC: Housing starts to fall short of demand even under best-case scenarios

Even under the most optimistic scenarios, housing starts are likely to end up significantly lower than the 2030 affordable housing supply targets established by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the agency said in a new report.

Markets that will be particularly affected are British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec.

“Two-thirds of the 3.5 million housing unit gap are in Ontario and British Columbia,” CMHC said. “These two provinces have housing markets that are not affordable, and they have faced large declines in affordability.”

 

Only Alberta is expected to achieve its affordable housing supply target by 2030.

“We didn’t think the challenges were this acute,” said Dana Senagama, report co-author and senior specialist in market insights at CMHC. “We thought that there was more capacity in order to achieve these goals. These provinces are going to have problems, but how much they will have… is what was more surprising.”

Read moreStatCan on the pace of growth in building permit values

“There are significant barriers to achieving this quantity of supply,” CMHC said. “Currently, skills shortages and supply-chain challenges are pushing up construction costs – meaning it can take more time to build.”

Complicating matters are the long-standing challenges posed by regulatory red tape, CMHC added.

 

“It can take many years to obtain approval for new construction in some parts of Canada. Without any means of lowering Canadians’ demand for housing, increased housing supply is the only means of achieving affordability.”

Senagam suggested an intensified focus on building apartments to address the lack of supply.

“Labour is able to get more things done within the same building, so it’s easier to move equipment and cranes as opposed to in those big, low-rise subdivisions, where it appears … that more workers are needed to move between one house and another,” Senagam said.

 
 
Read

September 2022 Metro Vancouver Stats are in!

News Release


Metro Vancouver saw more home sellers and fewer buyers in September:


Vancouver, B.C. – October 4, 2022 – Home sellers were more active in Metro Vancouver’s*
housing market in September while home buyer demand remained below the region’s long-term
averages.


The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the
region totalled 1,687 in September 2022, a 46.4 per cent decrease from the 3,149 sales recorded
in September 2021, and a 9.8 per cent decrease from the 1,870 homes sold in August 2022.
Last month’s sales were 35.7 per cent below the 10-year September sales average.


“With the Bank of Canada and other central banks around the globe hiking rates in an effort to
stamp out inflation, the cost to borrow funds has risen substantially over a short period,” said
Andrew Lis, REBGV director, economics and data analytics. “This has resulted in a more
challenging environment for borrowers looking to purchase a home, and home sales across the
region have dropped accordingly.”


There were 4,229 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the
Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in September 2022. This represents an
18.2 per cent decrease compared to the 5,171 homes listed in September 2021 and a 27.1 per cent
increase compared to August 2022 when 3,328 homes were listed.


The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is
9,971, an eight per cent increase compared to September 2021 (9,236) and a 3.2 per cent increase
compared to August 2022 (9,662).


“With fewer homes selling and new listings continuing to come to market, inventory is
beginning to accumulate, providing buyers with more selection compared to last year,” Lis said.
“With more supply and less demand within this market cycle, residential home prices have
edged down in the region over the last six months.”


For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for September 2022 is 16.9 per cent. By
property type, the ratio is 12.4 per cent for detached homes, 18.4 per cent for townhomes, and
20.9 per cent for apartments.


Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12
per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it
surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro
Vancouver is currently $1,155,300. This represents a 3.9 per cent increase over September 2021,
an 8.5 per cent decline over the past six months, and a 2.1 per cent decline compared to August
2022.


Sales of detached homes in September 2022 reached 525, a 44.7 per cent decrease from the 950
detached sales recorded in September 2021. The benchmark price for a detached home is
$1,906,400. This represents a 3.8 per cent increase from September 2021 and a 2.4 per cent
decrease compared to August 2022.


Sales of apartment homes reached 888 in September 2022, a 45.2 per cent decrease compared to
the 1,621 sales in September 2021. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $728,500. This
represents a 6.2% per cent increase from September 2021 and a 1.6 per cent decrease compared
to August 2022.


Attached home sales in September 2022 totalled 274, a 52.6 per cent decrease compared to the
578 sales in September 2021. The benchmark price of an attached home is $1,048,900. This
represents a 9.1 per cent increase from September 2021 and a 1.9 per cent decrease compared to
August 2022.



*Editor’s Note: Areas covered by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver include: Burnaby, Coquitlam, Maple
Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, South Delta,
Squamish, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Whistler.


The real estate industry is a key economic driver in British Columbia. In 2021, 43,999 homes changed ownership in
the Board’s area, generating $2.98 billion in economic spin-off activity and an estimated 20,942 jobs. The total
dollar value of residential sales transacted through the MLS® system in Greater Vancouver totalled $53.4 billion in
2021.


The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver is an association representing more than 14,000 REALTORS® and
their companies. The Board provides a variety of member services, including the Multiple Listing Service®. For
more information on real estate, statistics, and buying or selling a home, contact a local REALTOR® or visit
www.rebgv.org.

Read


Having trouble viewing the images?
CLICK HERE.

facebook
 
twitter
 
instagram
 
linkedin
 
instagram
 
 
 

Fraser Valley real estate market continues to stabilize heading into fall season


SURREY, BC — Continued slowing sales and a slight rise in inventory in September combined to bring greater stability to the Fraser Valley housing market.


In September, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) processed 897 sales on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), a decrease of 11.8 per cent compared to last month and a 51.9 per cent decrease compared to this time last year.


 


The Board received 2,273 new listings in September, an increase of 11.1 per cent compared to August, and only 2.9 per cent less than September 2021. The month ended with a total active inventory of 5,805, a decrease of 1.1 per cent from last month but up by 52.3 per cent compared to September 2021. Once again, September saw a balanced market in the Fraser Valley with an overall sales-to-active ratio of 15 per cent (the market is considered balanced when the sales-to-active ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent).


 


“There’s no question that interest rates continue to be a primary factor in the market trends over the past six months or so,” said Sandra Benz, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “The sales slowdown we’re seeing reflects a level of caution exercised by buyers, who are likely waiting for the market to settle further before jumping in. In the meantime, we anticipate prices may continue to decline across all categories.”


 


Weaker demand in the face of interest rate hikes, continued to bring downward pressure on Benchmark prices across all property categories. Prices have been falling steadily since late spring and, in the case of detached homes, are at October 2021 levels.


“It’s encouraging to see inventories start to rise in the region, however slight,” said Board CEO Baldev Gill. “Adequate supply is a key underpinning of a vibrant and equitable housing market – not just in the Fraser Valley, but throughout the province. As we meet with candidates during the upcoming municipal elections and later on this month with MPs in Ottawa, FVREB Realtors will continue to press for swift action on this fundamental issue.”


 


Across the Fraser Valley in September, the average number of days spent on the market before selling continued to increase: 34 days for a single-family detached, 32 for townhomes, and 30 for apartments.


MLS® HPI Benchmark Price Activity

  • Single Family Detached: At $1,462,000, the Benchmark price for an FVREB single-family detached home decreased 3.4 per cent compared to August 2022 and increased 4.1 per cent compared to September 2021.
  • Townhomes: At $822,400, the Benchmark price for an FVREB townhome decreased 2.3 per cent compared to August 2022 and increased 11.6 per cent compared to September 2021.
  • Apartments: At $530,400 the Benchmark price for an FVREB apartment/condo decreased 2.1 per cent compared to August 2022 and increased 14.5 per cent compared to September 2021.
 
Read
Categories:   Abbotsford East, Abbotsford Real Estate | Abbotsford West, Abbotsford Real Estate | Aberdeen, Abbotsford Real Estate | Albion, Maple Ridge Real Estate | Aldergrove Langley, Langley Real Estate | Beach Grove, Tsawwassen Real Estate | Brentwood Park, Burnaby North Real Estate | Brookswood Langley, Langley Real Estate | Campbell Valley, Langley Real Estate | Cape Horn, Coquitlam Real Estate | Central Abbotsford, Abbotsford Real Estate | Clayton, Cloverdale Real Estate | Cloverdale BC, Cloverdale Real Estate | Coal Harbour, Vancouver West Real Estate | Crescent Bch Ocean Pk., South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Downtown VW, Vancouver West Real Estate | East Newton, Surrey Real Estate | False Creek, Vancouver West Real Estate | Fleetwood Tynehead, Surrey Real Estate | Fort Langley, Langley Real Estate | Fraserview NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Grandview Surrey, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Guildford, North Surrey Real Estate | King George Corridor, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Kitsilano, Vancouver West Real Estate | Langley City, Langley Real Estate | Murrayville, Langley Real Estate | Otter District, Langley Real Estate | Pacific Douglas, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Salmon River, Langley Real Estate | Sperling-Duthie, Burnaby North Real Estate | Sullivan Station, Surrey Real Estate | Sunnyside Park Surrey, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Tobiano, Kamloops Real Estate | Uptown NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Vedder S Watson-Promontory, Sardis Real Estate | Walnut Grove, Langley Real Estate | West Newton, Surrey Real Estate | Whalley, North Surrey Real Estate | White Rock, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Willoughby Heights, Langley Real Estate
Categories
Reciprocity Logo The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.