Door frames, an often overlooked detail of our homes, can significantly impact the overall aesthetic. But should you paint door frames? The answer depends on your design vision and your ultimate property goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide, along with some helpful tips if you do choose to grab your paintbrush…
Reasons to Paint Your Door Frames
Whether you want a bold statement piece or a cohesive flow with your walls and doors, painting door frames can achieve it. But what are some of the other benefits of painting them?
Embrace interior design trends
From bohemian and maximalist to mid-century modern and country cottage, the most popular interior design styles often rely on colour to achieve a total transformation. And yes, that includes applying your colour palette to smaller features such as skirting boards and door frames.
Revamp your space
A fresh coat of paint on your frames can instantly elevate the look of your room, making it look like a brand new home. Ideal if you’re thinking about moving house and want to attract potential buyers.
Cover worn-out frames
Time and wear can leave frames looking dull and chipped. Painting can hide these imperfections and restore their visual appeal. Especially if you’ve left a little mess after completing a task like installing internal door handles.
Match new doors
If you’ve recently replaced a door, painting the frame to match creates a unified and polished look. Alternatively, create a striking visual statement with painted door frames in contrasting colours.
Enhance details
Painting door frames, especially in older homes with intricate mouldings, can highlight their architectural beauty. And if you’re using your doors to make a design statement, a well painted frame is just what you need to command attention in the right places.
Get inspired to make a design statement with new doors using our top tips.
What to consider before getting started
Before you buy door frames online, check with the manufacturer or supplier to see whether they’re suitable to be painted. And always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
Existing finish: If your frames are already painted in good condition, consider a simple touch-up instead of a complete repaint.
Door material and style: Painting might not be suitable for all materials like solid wood, especially if they have a valuable natural finish.
Overall design scheme: Ensure your chosen colour complements your existing interior design style and furniture.
Learn everything you need to know about door frames and find out how to replace a door frame with our in-depth articles. Ideal reading before you get stuck in.
Tips for painting door frames
First, gather your supplies. You’ll need painter’s tape, drop cloths, a paintbrush, a mini roller, sandpaper, caulk, primer (optional), and paint.
Prep the area
Remove the door, thoroughly clean the frame, and fill any cracks or holes with caulk. Apply painter’s tape around the frame and baseboards to protect them from paint.
Prime (optional)
If the frame is bare wood or hasn’t been painted before, applying a coat of primer ensures better paint adhesion and coverage.
Apply paint
Start with the edges and corners using a brush, then use the roller for flat surfaces. Apply thin, even coats and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Remove tape carefully
Once the final coat is dry, gently peel off the painter’s tape.
For a more professional finish, consider using a small angled brush to get into tight corners and around hardware.
Discover extra essential door frame painting tips in our more detailed guide.
Watch how to paint door frames
The difference between painting external and internal door frames
While the basic steps of painting internal and external door frames might seem similar, there are some key differences to consider:
Paint Choice
Internal doors: Use water-based paints as they are generally low in odour, dry quickly, and clean up easily with water. Opt for satin or eggshell finishes for their durability and ability to hide minor imperfections.
External doors: Choose weatherproof and durable paints like alkyd or acrylic enamels. These paints can withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, sun, and extreme temperatures. Select a gloss finish for its superior resistance to moisture and wear.
Preparation
Internal doors: You might not need extensive sanding unless the surface is heavily damaged. However, thorough cleaning to remove dust, grease and cobwebs is crucial.
External doors: Due to exposure to the elements, external door frames often require more sanding to remove layers of old paint, dirt, and weathering. Additionally, check for cracks, rot or water damage. Take care of any issues prior to painting.
Additional Considerations
Number of coats
Applying more coats of paint is generally recommended for external frames to provide better protection against the elements.
Drying time
Allow longer drying times between coats for both types of paint, but especially for external frames exposed to cooler temperatures or fluctuating weather conditions.
Hardware
Painting the rest of the door too? Remove hardware (hinges, knobs) from both internal and external doors for easier painting and to avoid paint splatter.
Sticking to these guidelines will ensure you choose the right paint and prepare the surface appropriately for both internal and external frames, leading to a professional-looking and long-lasting finish.
Framing your home in the right light
Painting door frames can be a rewarding project, but proper preparation is key. By considering the factors mentioned and following these tips, achieve a beautiful and highly worthwhile result. A simple way to enhance your home’s aesthetic for years to come.
Ready to buy door frames online? Browse our door frame collection and order for fast delivery in just a few clicks. Great for keeping your project on track.
