How Much Does It Cost to Paint Interior Doors?

Painting your interior doors is a simple and effective way to upgrade the look and feel of your home. Whether you're refreshing an old color or making a bold change, understanding the costs involved is key to planning your project. This guide breaks down the average costs, the factors that affect them, and tips to save money.

Average Cost to Paint Interior Doors

The cost to paint interior doors can vary widely depending on the number of doors and the complexity of the job.

Cost per door

On average, a professional painter will charge between $75 and $200 per door. This price typically includes all the necessary prep work, such as cleaning, sanding, and priming, as well as the application of two coats of paint. The final price per door can be influenced by the door's style; a simple, flat door is less expensive to paint than a paneled or French door with intricate details.

Total project averages

For a full home, the total cost will depend on the number of doors you're painting. For a home with 5-10 doors, the total project cost could range from $500 to $2,000. For larger homes or projects with many doors, the cost will increase accordingly.

Factors That Affect Door Painting Costs

Several key factors can influence the final price you pay for your door painting project.

Door size and style

A standard-sized door will fall within the average price range. However, larger doors, such as a tall pantry door or a wide sliding door, may cost more. As mentioned earlier, the style of the door is a significant factor. Doors with many panels, glass inserts (like a French door), or ornate carvings require more time and precision to paint.

Number of coats required

Most professional painters will apply at least two coats of paint to ensure a durable and even finish. If you're painting a dark door a very light color, a third coat or a special primer may be necessary, which will add to the labor and material costs.

Paint type and finish

The cost of paint itself can vary. Higher-quality paints are more expensive but offer better coverage and a more durable finish that resists scuffs and fingerprints. The paint finish you choose also affects the cost. While most interior doors use a satin or semi-gloss finish for easy cleaning, specialty paints with a high-gloss or matte finish may cost more.

Professional vs DIY Costs

Deciding whether to hire a professional or do it yourself depends on your budget, time, and comfort with the work.

Hiring a painter

Hiring a professional painter is the most expensive option upfront, but it guarantees a high-quality, long-lasting finish. A professional has the right tools and expertise to handle the job efficiently, often completing the work in a single day. This is a great choice if you value a flawless finish and want to save yourself the time and effort.

Tools and materials for DIY

If you choose to DIY, you'll save on labor but will need to purchase or rent all the necessary supplies. A basic list of tools includes:

• Paint

• Primer

• Brushes and rollers

• Sandpaper

• Painter's tape

• Drop cloths

• Cleaning supplies

The total cost for these materials can range from $50 to $150 per door, depending on the quality of the products you choose.

Tips to Save on Door Painting

There are a few ways to reduce the cost of your door painting project.

Bundling with full interior painting

If you plan to paint your walls and trim, it's often more cost-effective to include the doors in the same project. Painters may offer a discounted rate for bundling services, as it reduces setup and cleanup time for them.

Choosing durable paints

While a higher-quality paint may cost more upfront, its durability and resistance to wear and tear can save you money in the long run. You won't have to repaint as frequently, making it a wise investment.

FAQs

How long does door paint last?

With proper prep and a quality paint, a professionally painted door can last for 5 to 10 years or more. The longevity depends on how much traffic the door gets and the type of finish used.

Should I remove doors before painting?

For the best results, it is highly recommended to remove the doors from their hinges before painting. This allows you to paint the entire door evenly without drips or missed spots and makes it easier to work on a flat surface.

Ready to give your doors a fresh look? Contact us today for a free quote on your interior painting project!