Why Painting a Door Is Trickier Than You’d Think
Ever started a painting project only to end up with brush marks, streaks, or drips all over? Painting a door might seem simple, but achieving a smooth, flawless finish can be surprisingly tricky.
Doors have panels, edges, and details that can make getting an even coat challenging if you’re not careful. So, if you’re asking yourself, “How do you paint a door without the usual mess?” then you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll go through step-by-step instructions for painting a door with professional-looking results—minus the frustration.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you get started, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need for a flawless door painting project:
Painter’s Tape – To mask off edges and protect areas you don’t want to be painted
Fine-Grit Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit) – Essential for a smooth, prepped surface
Degreaser or Mild Cleaner – For cleaning off oils, fingerprints, and grime
Primer – Especially important for unfinished or previously painted doors
High-Quality Door Paint – Go with either a latex or oil-based paint, depending on your needs
Paint Roller (4-6 inch) – A mini roller for doors to reduce brush marks
Angled Brush – For edges, panels, and detailed areas
Paint Tray and Liner – For easy access and less mess
Protective Drop Cloths – To cover the floor and surrounding areas
Step 1: Prep the Door for Painting
Proper preparation is crucial to getting a smooth, lasting finish. Here’s what to do:
1.1 Remove or Cover Hardware
Start by removing any door hardware like knobs, locks, and hinges. If you can’t remove them, cover them with painter’s tape. This step will save you from messy cleanup and ensure a cleaner paint job.
1.2 Sand the Surface
Lightly sand the entire surface with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections. If the door already has a coat of paint, use 220-grit sandpaper to create a light “tooth” that helps the new paint adhere better.
1.3 Clean the Door Thoroughly
Use a degreaser or mild soap and water to clean the door. Dirt and grease can prevent the paint from sticking properly, so make sure it’s fully dry before moving on to the next step.
1.4 Apply Primer
Primer is essential if you’re painting over a darker colour or if your door is unfinished wood. Use a roller for large areas and a brush for edges. Let the primer dry for at least 24 hours for best results.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Paint
The best paint for a door is one that provides durability and can handle wear and tear. Here are two common options:
Latex Paint: Dries quickly, has low odour, and is easier to clean up. Latex is great for interior doors.
Oil-Based Paint: Offers a more durable finish and levels out better for fewer brush marks, though it takes longer to dry.
For a classic look, choose a semi-gloss or gloss finish, which gives the door a polished, professional appearance.
Step 3: Paint Like a Pro – Techniques for a Smooth Finish
Now comes the fun part: applying the paint. Here’s the best approach to avoid streaks, drips, and other common painting mistakes.
3.1 Use a Mini Roller for Flat Surfaces
A 4-6 inch foam roller works wonders for the flat areas of the door. It lays down an even coat and reduces brush strokes. Load your roller lightly to prevent drips, and apply the paint in smooth, even strokes.
3.2 Work the Panels and Details First
If your door has panels, start by painting these first with an angled brush. Begin with the inset panels, painting the edges before moving to the centre. Then, paint the vertical and horizontal rails.
3.3 Roll the Larger Sections
After finishing the panels, use a mini roller on the larger sections of the door for an even, seamless look. Roll vertically from top to bottom, overlapping each stroke slightly to blend.
3.4 Feather Out Brush Marks
To avoid visible brush marks, go over any brushed areas lightly with the roller. This “feathering” helps blend the brush and roller strokes for a smooth, professional finish.
Step 4: Let It Dry Completely
A mistake many DIY painters make is touching the door too soon. Let each coat dry thoroughly—usually around 4–6 hours for latex paint and 8–24 hours for oil-based paint. If a second coat is necessary, make sure the first is completely dry.
Tips for Achieving a Flawless Finish
Here are some final tips for perfecting your door painting skills:
Don’t Overload the Roller or Brush: Less paint on the brush means fewer drips and better control.
Paint with the Door Horizontal (If Possible): If you can, take the door off its hinges and lay it flat on sawhorses. This helps prevent drips.
Use a Light Hand: Pressing too hard on the roller can create texture or streaks; let the roller do the work.
Sand Between Coats: A light sanding between coats (with 220-grit paper) helps each layer adhere better, resulting in a smoother finish.
A Fresh Look, Right at Your Fingertips
Painting a door is one of those projects that, with a little know-how, can completely transform a room without a major overhaul.
By following these steps on how to paint a door and taking the time to prep, choose the right paint, and apply it carefully, you’ll end up with a professional finish that’s built to last.
Want more tips on perfecting your home? Get in touch with us for more DIY advice and expert guidance!
FAQs
1. Do I need to prime the door before painting?
Yes, especially if the door is bare wood or if you’re covering a darker colour. Primer helps paint stick better and ensures a more even finish.
2. Can I paint a door without taking it off its hinges?
Yes, but it’s easier to achieve a smooth finish if you remove the door. If you can’t, use painter’s tape to protect hinges and other areas you don’t want to paint.
3. Should I use a brush or a roller for painting doors?
Both! Use a brush for panels and edges and a roller for flat surfaces. This combo minimises brush marks and ensures even coverage.
4. How many coats of paint do I need?
Typically, two coats are recommended for the best coverage and durability, especially if covering a darker colour.
5. How long should I wait before rehanging the door?
Let the door dry fully for 24 hours before rehanging to avoid smudges or fingerprints.
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