Painting interior doors might seem like a small project, but when done right, it can dramatically enhance the look and feel of your home. Whether you’re freshening up old doors or changing colors for a new aesthetic, a smooth, professional finish is easier to achieve than you think. Here are some quick, expert tips to help you paint interior doors like a pro.
1. Choose the Right Paint and Tools
Not all paint is created equal. For interior doors, a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish is ideal—it’s durable, easy to clean, and gives a polished look. Use latex-based paint for faster drying and easier cleanup, or opt for oil-based if you want a smoother, more durable finish.
Equip yourself with the right tools:
- A high-quality angled brush for edges and panels
- A small foam roller for flat surfaces
- Sandpaper (120- to 220-grit)
- Primer (if switching colors or painting raw wood)
2. Remove or Mask Hardware
For the cleanest results, remove the door from its hinges and take off handles, locks, and other hardware. If you’d rather paint with the door in place, use painter’s tape to cover hardware and protect walls and floors.
3. Prep Like a Pro
Preparation is everything. Clean the door thoroughly to remove dust, grease, or fingerprints. Lightly sand the entire surface to help the new paint adhere better, especially if the door has a glossy finish. Wipe it down after sanding to remove any residue.
If you’re painting over a dark color or wood, use a stain-blocking primer. It ensures a smooth base and prevents the old color from bleeding through.
4. Follow the Right Order When Painting
Painting in the right sequence avoids streaks and brush marks. Here’s a recommended order for paneled doors:
- Panels – Use a brush to paint the inset panels first.
- Vertical center stile – Paint the central strip between panels.
- Horizontal rails – Paint the horizontal parts across the door.
- Outer vertical stiles – Finish with the edges on each side.
For flush or flat doors, use a foam roller for a smooth, streak-free finish, and back-brush gently if needed to remove bubbles.
5. Apply Thin Coats and Be Patient
Thick coats lead to drips and uneven texture. Instead, apply two to three thin coats, letting each one dry completely before adding the next. This may take more time, but it gives a far more professional result.
6. Don’t Forget the Edges
The edges of the door are often overlooked. Be sure to paint them in a color that matches the room the door opens into—or use the same color as the face of the door if it’s consistent throughout the house.
Final Touch
Once your last coat is fully dry, reattach hardware and hang the door back up. Stand back and admire your handiwork—you’ve just transformed your space with nothing more than paint and a bit of patience!
Pro Tip: If you’re painting multiple doors, label them with painter’s tape before removing them to avoid confusion when reattaching.
A freshly painted interior door adds character and charm to your space. Follow these tips and you’ll achieve a crisp, clean finish that looks like it came straight from a professional.
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