Guide On Painting Interior Doors

Are you tired of looking at boring, drab interior doors that bring down the overall aesthetic of your home? It’s time to give those doors a fresh new look with a coat of paint! Painting interior doors is a simple and affordable way to update the look of a room without breaking the bank. In this guide, we will take you through the steps of painting interior doors, so you can achieve a professional-looking finish in no time.

Materials Needed For Painting Interior Doors:

• Paint (latex paint is recommended)
• Paint brushes and rollers
• Paint tray
• Sandpaper (120-grit)
• TSP or degreaser
• Drop cloths
• Masking tape
• Primer (if needed)
• Paint thinner (if needed)

Step By Step Guide on Painting Interior Doors

Step 1: Prep The Doors

Before you begin painting, it’s important to properly prepare the doors. This includes cleaning the doors, sanding them, and filling any cracks or holes.

Clean the doors: Use TSP (trisodium phosphate) or degreaser to clean the doors. TSP is a heavy-duty cleaner that is effective in removing dirt, grease, and grime from surfaces. Mix TSP with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and use a scrub brush to apply it to the doors. Rinse the doors with clean water and dry them completely.

Sand the doors: Sanding the doors will help to roughen up the surface and remove any glossy finish. Use 120-grit sandpaper to sand the doors. Be sure to sand the edges and corners of the doors as well. After sanding, wipe the doors down with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Fill any cracks or holes: If the doors have any cracks or holes, fill them with wood filler. Wood filler is a type of putty that is used to fill holes, cracks, and imperfections in wood surfaces. Apply the wood filler to the cracks or holes, and smooth it out with a putty knife. Dry the filling thoroughly before sanding it smooth.

Step 2: Remove Hardware and Mask Off Edges

Before painting, it’s important to remove any hardware, such as knobs, hinges, and locks, from the doors. If you are unable to remove the hardware, cover it with masking tape to protect it from paint. Next, use masking tape to cover the edges of the door to protect the surrounding surfaces from paint.

Step 3: Apply Primer (If Needed)

If the doors are made of wood or have previously been painted, you may not need to use a primer. However, if the doors are made of metal, or have never been painted before, you’ll need to apply a primer before painting. Primer is a type of paint that is used as a base coat before applying the final coat of paint. It helps to seal the surface and provides a better surface for the paint to adhere to. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.

Step 4: Apply The Paint

Stir the paint before using it: Stir the paint thoroughly to ensure that the pigments are evenly distributed. If the paint is too thick, you can add a small amount of paint thinner to thin it out.

Use a paintbrush and roller: Use a paintbrush to paint the edges of the door and a roller to paint the flat surfaces. Start by painting the top edge of the door and then the sides, followed by the bottom.

Apply two coats of paint: Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. The second coat will help to ensure an even and complete coverage of the doors.

Step 5: Reinstall Hardware and Remove Masking Tape

After the paint has dried completely, reinstall any hardware that was removed earlier. Remove the masking tape from the edges of the door and any hardware that was covered with it.

Additional Tips:

• Always work in a well-ventilated area: painting produces fumes that can be harmful if inhaled.
• Use a paint roller with a medium nap for a smooth finish: A medium nap roller is best for a smooth finish on interior doors.
• Use a paintbrush with synthetic bristles for a smooth finish: Synthetic bristles are less likely to leave brush marks than natural bristles.
• Use a paint tray to avoid drips and splatters: A paint tray will help to keep paint from spilling and making a mess on your floor or surrounding surfaces.

Conclusion

Painting interior doors is a great way to give your home a fresh new look without spending a lot of money on hiring professional painting company. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to prep, paint, and finish your doors like a pro. Remember to take your time, pay attention to the details, and use the right materials for the best results. With a little bit of effort, your interior doors will be transformed and will add a touch of style and personality to your home. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to turn those drab doors into a work of art!