How to Paint a Door (DIY)

May 2024 · 1 minute read

Introduction

Painting paneled doors is the ultimate painter's challenge. To make it easier, we tried different tools and paints and watched pros work. Here's what we found.

Picking your paint

While you’re picking a paint color, also think about sheen. With a flat finish, scuff marks and handprints are hard to wipe away. High gloss is easy to clean but accentuates every little flaw, so your prep and paint job need to be perfect. Satin and semigloss are good compromise choices.

Note: Painting a door typically takes three to five hours, depending on the condition of the door and how fussy you are. But add in the drying time and it’s a full-day project. So if you’re painting a door you can’t live without, like a bathroom or exterior door, start first thing in the morning so it can be back in service by day’s end. 

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