To prepare your doors for painting follow these steps:
1. Clean the surface with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent using a soft brush or sponge.
2. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the doors to dry completely.
3. Sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining chalky residue and to smooth out imperfections. This can be done while cleaning using a scouring pad, wet sanding.
4. Apply a high-quality exterior primer suitable for the material of your doors and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Finish with a coat of exterior paint in the color of your choice, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

This process will not only remove the chalky residue but also ensure that your entryway doors are properly prepped and protected for exterior use, enhancing their appearance and longevity.