How much does it cost to paint an interior door?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

When painting the interior of your home, doors are one of the most important elements. Painting them throughout your home is a great way to revitalize your space and enhance your home’s value. A handful of things will impact the overall cost of the project, including the size and material of your door, the type of primer and paint you choose, and the brand of paint products you get.

Throughout the United States, the average cost to prime and paint an interior door ranges from $70 to $200. Most homeowners pay approximately $150 to prime and paint both sides of the average 32” x 80” metal or wood door and trim with oil-based products. However, you can pay as low as $50 to paint both sides of a 32” x 80” composite door with a water-based primer and paint or as high as $300 to prime and paint a 36” x 90” fiberglass door and door casing with acrylic paint.

Cost to Paint Interior Doors

Cost to Paint Interior Doors by Size

As you may have guessed, the size of your door impacts the overall cost of your project. For standard doors throughout your home, you can generally expect them to come in two sizes (32” x 80” and 36” x 90”), with a painting cost ranging from $50 to $300. Smaller door dimensions, such as 28” and 24” wide, are used for closets and utility rooms. These range in price from $25 to $100 to paint. Doors wider than 36” are available to accommodate people living with disabilities.

Average Cost to Paint Interior Doors by Type

Another factor that impacts the overall cost of your interior door painting project is the type of door you have. You can have plenty of different door styles inside your home. Each of them requires a specific process when it comes to painting. Depending on what type of door you have, you can expect to pay between $50 and $300 for a painter to get the job done. Check out the most common door types and the price to paint them below.

Flush Door Painting

Flush doors are among the easiest and cheapest to paint, ranging from $50 to $150. This simple door design features plain, flat facings on both sides without any complex designs. These doors can either be painted with a sprayer, a roller, or a brush. Your painting contractor will decide the best fit for your doors, depending on their size, location, and current condition.

Paint Bifold Doors

If you plan to paint your bifold doors, you can expect to pay between $70 and $200. Bifold doors are composed of two or more panels that are hinged at the end. They fold together or stack when they slide open. Bifold doors can either be spray painted or painted with a roller, depending on what your painting contractor wants. Overall, these doors don’t have any additional features that make them too complicated to paint, so the process shouldn’t be difficult for your painter.

Paint a 6-Panel Door

Typically, it costs between $75 and $100 to paint a 6-panel door. These doors feature six indented panels, including two smaller upper panels, two long center panels, and two mid-sized lower panels. Overall, these doors aren’t too complicated to paint. However, your painter will have to pay close attention to detail when painting the edges around the panels. Traditional 6-panel doors are made out of wood, but they can be made out of other materials like MDF and vinyl.

Paint Sliding Doors

The cost to paint sliding doors ranges from $75 to $300. Sliding doors are flexible and functional and create a nice sense of flow throughout your home. These doors are simple to paint and can be left on the track or taken off to reach every part of the surface.

Sliding doors are often made out of wood in a barn door style, which means your painters will most likely use oil-based paints. Barn doors are placed on a track at the top of the doors and slide open and closed freely. When painting a sliding barn door, your painter will either spray or roll paint on.

Sliding doors can also slide into the wall to take up less room in your home. These are called pocket doors and can be great additions to smaller homes. These doors can be made in many different styles and with various materials to meet your needs. Since part of the door is hidden within the wall, it will have to be removed to be painted. This makes the project a bit more expensive than other door types. Barn door painting cost is similar to the cost to paint a pocket door.

Paint Louvered Doors

On average, it costs between $80 and $200 to paint a louvered door. These doors feature horizontal blades of wood, glass, and louvers that offer privacy and natural ventilation. The frames of these doors are fairly easy for a contractor to paint, but the open slats provide an added challenge. Due to the way they are formed, the best way for your painter to paint a louvered door is to remove the door and use a spray painter.

Glass Door Painting

The cost to paint a door with a glass inset costs between $100 and $300. These doors are often used as interior/exterior doors because they act as another window. However, they can be used throughout the house as well. Painting around the glass inset can be done by your painter either taping off the glass and spraying or using a roller. They will also need to use a brush to paint around the edges of the glass.

Paint Dutch Door

You can expect to pay between $100 and $300 to paint a Dutch door. These doors, also known as stable doors, are cut in half horizontally and open independently of each other. They are usually made from wood, which means your painter will sand down and prime the surface before painting with an oil-based paint.

Paint French Door

Painting a French door costs between $200 and $300. These doors are generally larger and require more preparation to paint. Specifically, it takes a lot of time to tape off the edges of the windows in the doors. Furthermore, it takes much longer for your painter to paint around the edges of all the windows.

Price to Paint Interior Doors by Material

Before you decide what type of paint you need for your painting project, it’s important to know what material your door is made of and understand what type of paint is best suited for it. A wide range of interior door materials is available. Each comes with its own unique specifications. Depending on what type of door you have, you can expect to pay between $50 and $300 to paint it.

MDF Door Painting

It costs between $50 and $100 to paint a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) door. This material is made out of dehydrated sawdust, shavings, and bits of wood, resin, and wax. Like natural wood, MDF doors will not respond well to moisture. However, since your contractor will be using an oil-based primer first, they can be painted with oil-based and water-based paints. However, oil-based paint with a semi-gloss finish yields the best results.

Vinyl Door Painting

You can expect to pay between $70 and $115 to paint an interior vinyl door. When it comes to composite materials like vinyl, it is best to use a water-based primer and paint. This helps the paint adhere to the surface, is much easier to clean, and dries very quickly. Your painter will then either use a sprayer to apply the paint or a traditional roller and brush. The spray painting process itself is faster, but the prep time may be longer since the painter will have to tape off all the areas around the door. Conversely, using a roller and brush takes longer but allows the painter to be more precise.

Composite Door Painting

When painting a composite interior door, you can expect to pay between $70 and $115. Composite is made out of various materials, including wood, metal, and PVC. These materials allow it to be stronger and thicker than many other doors. Typically, when painting these doors, it is best to avoid latex paints and lean into oil-based paints. This type of paint provides better coverage and durability.

Paint a Metal Door

The three main types of metal doors are aluminum, iron, and steel. Painting costs do not vary much from material to material, so you can expect to pay between $90 and $170 to paint any of these metal doors. Painting metal doors is usually a simple process because they are naturally smooth. When painting metal doors, it is best to use oil-based paint. It adheres to the surface well and is less likely to cause rust.

Wood Door Painting

Typically, it costs between $100 and $200 to paint a wooden interior door. When painting a wood door, it is best to use an oil-based paint. Latex paints are more likely to make the wood expand. Additionally, oil-based paints are more resistant to grease and moisture overall and are more flexible. Wood doors can also be stained, which is a less time-consuming but more expensive process. If you are looking for a more natural look, stain is the way to go.

Fiberglass Door Painting

Painting an interior fiberglass door costs between $125 and $300. When painting this type of door, it is best to use acrylic, polyester, epoxy resin, or polyurethane paints. These paints are the least likely to crack or blister and are easy to clean, too. More importantly, be sure your painter does not use oil-based paints because these damage the door. Before any painting begins, weather stripping needs to be removed, and the door should be thoroughly cleaned. After that, they will apply a primer and finally paint the door.

Cost to Paint Interior Doors by Type of Paint

When it comes to pricing your interior door paint job, the type of paint you choose impacts the overall cost of your project. As far as painting your interior doors goes, there are three main types of paint you can choose depending on the material of the door itself. Based on which one you choose, you can expect to pay between $15 and $160 per gallon. Read on to learn a bit more about these paint types so that you can choose the right type for your doors.

Water-Based Door Paint

On average, a gallon of water-based, or latex, paint costs between $15 and $50. These paints are a great option in terms of customizability and affordability. However, latex paints can cause wood to expand, so you will have to sand the wood between coats if that is the material of your door. Latex also does not bond to the metal surface as easily as oil-based paints. Water-based paints are not as durable as oil-based paints for high-traffic areas. They don’t emit as many harmful fumes as oil-based paints, giving them an advantage for painting interiors.

Oil Paint for Doors

A gallon of interior oil-based paint costs between $20 and $60. Oil paints are the best option for doors and the surrounding trim, usually made out of wood. Oil-based paints are best used for wooden surfaces. They also are the most resistant to ongoing moisture and grease. On the downside, oil-based paints and the materials needed to clean it up are more harmful. You must be cautious when using them inside.

Chalk Paint Interior Doors

Interior chalk paint costs between $80 and $160 per gallon. Though it is the most expensive option, it is the easiest to paint. Chalk paint requires virtually no prep work, dries very quickly, and needs about two coats to cover the door properly. Chalk paint adds depth and texture, allowing you to create a unique look for different rooms throughout your home. However, it goes on thick, so your painter will need more paint than you think.

Average Cost to Paint Interior Doors by Type of Finish

The type of finish you choose for your door determines how it looks, how well it holds up to stains, and the overall cost of your project. Typically, the best finish for interior doors is a semi-gloss because it holds up well against stains and dirt build-up. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is the only choice. Depending on which type you choose, you can expect to pay between $10 and $80 per gallon. Let’s take a closer look at each type.

Matte Paint for Interior Doors

A gallon of interior matte or flat paint costs between $10 and $70. Matte paint is probably the worst choice for high-contact areas like doors because they are the least resistant to stains. However, they hide imperfections on the surface due to their non-reflective properties. Plus, matte finishes are the most cost-effective options on the market. Matte paint could be something to consider for doors that are there for aesthetics more than functionality.

Eggshell Paint for Doors

Typically, it costs between $11 and $60 per gallon of interior eggshell paint. Eggshell paint is a nice step up from flat paint because of its durability and gloss. However, it is still not the most recommended for interior doors because it isn’t as resistant to stains as finishes with a higher gloss. Eggshell would be a good option for doors that perhaps aren’t used often. That way, you can still enjoy the way they look without potentially ruining them with day-to-day contact.

Satin Door Paint

On average, a gallon of interior satin paint costs between $12 and $60. Satin is one of the more acceptable choices for interior doors because it holds up well against stains and dirt. The finish provided by satin paint allows your door to stand out against the surrounding walls without being too flashy. However, you have to be careful when first applying satin finishes because they accentuate existing flaws on the door.

Semi-Gloss Paint for Doors

Interior semi-gloss paint costs between $12 and $70 per gallon. This is the absolute best finish for your interior doors because it is one of the toughest paints. It is highly resistant to stains and is very easy to clean. Plus, semi-gloss paint gives a nice, shiny look to your doors. Semi-gloss finishes draw attention to any flaws in your door, so be sure your door is in good condition before you begin painting.

High-Gloss Door Paint

Interior high-gloss paint costs approximately $17 and $80 per gallon. This paint is among the most expensive because it is the most durable. As the name suggests, high-gloss paint is extremely glossy, making it a great choice if you want to draw a lot of attention to the interior doors in a larger room. If you plan to use high-gloss paint for your door, be sure your walls are a neutral color. That way, the room won’t feel too overwhelming.

Door Primer Price by Type

Before your painter begins painting, they will almost always prime your door first. Primers block stains, mute colors, and allow the new paint to better stick to the surface. When priming your doors, you should either use a latex or oil-based primer, although you can also use shellac or adhesive primers.

Adhesive primers are made with a diluted adhesive and a coupling agent. They can be used with both oil-based and latex paints, which means you can get a lot of use out of it for multiple projects regardless of the type of paint you choose. Oil-based primers also work with oil and latex paints, making them another convenient choice for a wide range of materials. However, they are slow-drying and can release high amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful when painting in an enclosed area.

Shellac primers are ideal for preventing stains, rust, and other imperfections. They are yet another primer that works well with oil-based and latex paints, so they are another versatile primer choice. However, they emit more fumes and are much harder to clean. Latex primers are water-based and are more flexible than oil-based primers. This makes them less likely to peel or crack when drying. They are easy to clean and come in low- or no-VOC formulas, which means you don’t have to worry about breathing in harmful chemicals. Depending on what type of primer you choose, you can expect to pay between $15 and $80 per gallon.

Price to Paint Interior Doors by Brand

There are plenty of high-quality paint brands from which you can choose for your interior door paint job. The right one for your specific project depends on several things, including the availability of the paint, your budget, and your style and performance needs for your doors. Depending on which brand you choose, you can expect to pay between $10 and $100 per gallon of paint. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular brands.

Valspar Door Paint

On average, a gallon of Valspar paint costs between $10 and $60 per gallon. Valspar is exclusively sold at Lowes, making it an easily attainable paint type. Unlike Behr paints, Valspar is most easily applied with a roller, making it a convenient and more cost-effective option. These interior paints are resistant to mildew, so they are a great choice for bathrooms and kitchens. However, they do not hold up as well against dirt. Valspar is a thin paint, which means you will need multiple layers for good coverage. Also, this paint dries very quickly, leaving more room for paint streaks on the wall.

Behr Door Paint

A gallon of Behr paint costs between $15 and $80. Behr Paint Company is one of the biggest manufacturers of primers, finishes, and stains. They have a retail partnership with The Home Depot and offer several interior paints, ranging from basic to self-priming. Behr paint offers many advantages. It doesn't crack or fade easily, has great coverage, and is easy to find. However, it is not a great option if you plan to use a roller. When using Behr paint, your painter should plan to spray paint.

PPG Door Paint

If you plan to use PPG paint for your interior, you can expect to pay between $23 and $85 per gallon. PPG is a global manufacturer of paints and coatings with over 135 years of interior paint knowledge under their belts. They offer a wide range of products for interior jobs that are durable, customizable, and long-lasting. PPG paints are known for being mold- and mildew resistant, making them a great choice if you need paint for your kitchen or bathroom doors.

Benjamin Moore Interior Door Paint

A gallon of Benjamin Moore interior paint costs between $35 to $90. Benjamin Moore Paint Company has been around since 1883. Today, they offer more than 3,400 paint colors from independent retailers across the country. They offer four distinct interior paint lines that each offer their own benefits. Aura paints are mildew-resistant and thick, which means you’ll never need more than two coats. Natura paints are zero-VOC, which makes them healthier for you and the environment. Regal paints are newer and offer a smoother application. They are washable and fade-resistant. The last type is ben Interior, which is the least expensive of them all. It is available in flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss sheens.

Sherwin-Williams Interior Door Paint

Typically, Sherwin-Williams paint costs between $40 and $100 per gallon. The Sherwin-Williams Company first opened its doors in 1866 and is now a global leader in developing and selling paints, coatings, finishes, and more. They offer dozens of interior primers, paints, and finishes, including specialty paint options sold exclusively at their own stores. Some are made specifically to fight bacteria, and others are zero-VOC formulas designed to eliminate harmful odors. Sherwin-Williams offers a wide range of color options. The only downside is many of their paints are on the more expensive side.

Labor Cost to Paint Interior Doors

Hiring a professional painter makes your interior paint job go much smoother from start to finish. With a painting contractor on your side, you enjoy a stress-free process with long-lasting results. On average, it takes three to five hours to paint an interior door, depending on its current condition and how many coats of paint the door needs. Painters generally set their rates in a few different ways. Costs vary from state to state. However, painters charge between $1.50 and $4 per sq.ft., between $25 and $100 per hour, or between $70 and $200 per door.

Cost to Repaint Door

If your interior doors are still in good shape, but you want a change of appearance, consider repainting them. On average, the cost to repaint a door doesn’t vary too much from a new paint job. The cost is $70 to $200 per project. When repainting, your painter almost always uses a primer first, which costs $15 to $80 per gallon. That way, the new paint adheres to the surface and fully covers the old color. If your door is already a very dark color, your contractor may want to remove the old paint. Otherwise, they will use a white primer to cover the surface completely.

Cost to Refinish Door

If you plan to refinish your interior doors, you can expect to pay between $170 and $375 per door. The refinishing process involves cleaning, filling, repairing, sanding, priming, and painting a top coat on your door. Refinishing a door allows you to enhance the door’s durability and longevity and completely change the look of the surface. On the other hand, the repainting process only includes the priming and painting steps. This option might be helpful if your door is still in decent shape.

Cost to Stain Interior Doors

If you’re looking to give your wooden doors an upgraded look, consider staining them with an oil-based stain. On average, it costs between $60 and $180 to stain an interior door depending on how big the door is, what condition it is in, and what type of finish you choose. Since your interior doors are not exposed to the elements, the choice between painting and staining is largely up to your own personal preferences. Plus, most modern stains offer great UV resistance, which means that even doors exposed to sunlight through windows will be safe. If you want a more natural look for your home, gel stain interior doors are the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to add splashes of color to your space, you are better off painting.

Prepping a Door for Painting

Before your contractors begin painting your interior doors, there are a handful of steps they will need to take to prepare. First, they will choose whether to remove door knobs, plates, and locks from the door or protect them with painter tape or rubber cement. Your painter’s decision on whether to remove the door or not will depend on the positioning of the door and how they plan to paint it. Often, spray painting is easier with the door removed. Using a roller can still be done somewhat easily with the door attached. Next, they will assess the current state of your door, repair any damages, and sand the door. They will then thoroughly clean the door. If the door is extremely dirty, they will use a sponge and TSP (trisodium phosphate). Even if it is in decent shape, they will still use soap and warm water to make sure it is in peak condition for painting. The final step before painting is to use a quality primer.

How Much Paint Do I Need to Paint a Door?

To determine how much paint you need, you must figure out how big your door is and how many coats of paint are needed. The average interior door size is 32” x 80.” You will most likely be painting both sides of it. Therefore, you will need about one quart, or a quarter of a gallon of paint, to cover both sides of a door this size. Typically, a quart of interior paint costs between $8 and $18. If you need two coats of paint on the door, you will need double this amount.

What Color Should I Paint My Interior Doors?

Choosing the right color for your interior doors depends on the color of your walls and your style preferences. If you want to make a small room appear larger, consider using similar or the same colors for your walls and door. You can still use a slightly different color for the trim to make it pop while allowing your door to blend in with the rest of the space. Conversely, you can add pops of contrast in larger rooms by painting your door a different color. With neutral walls, you have your choice of darker tones, brighter pinks and yellows, grays, blacks, blues, and more. If you are painting interior doors two colors or painting the trim a different color, make sure they complement each other.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Paint Interior Doors and Trim

If you plan to paint both your interior door and the trim that surrounds it, you will need to figure out how much paint is needed for both parts of the job. It costs approximately $1 to $4 per linear foot to paint the door casing and $1.50 to $4 per sq.ft. to paint the interior door itself. Therefore, expect to pay between $70 and $200 to paint both sides of the average 32” x 80” door and the 8 feet of surrounding door casings.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. Most paint jobs will not require special licensing or permits, but you should always check before you begin painting.
• DIY. It is possible to paint your interior doors by yourself, but it is much easier to hire a professional to get the job done. If you plan to paint on your own, do it in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to clean the surface of your doors before you begin.
• Lead paint. Though lead paint has been banned in the United States for over 40 years, it is still present in many homes. When it comes to removing lead paint, it is best left to a trained painting contractor. It is also possible to paint over lead paint, which involves following very specific protocols. This process is called encapsulation and should be handled by a professional.
• Home value. Painting your interior improves your return of investment on your home by 107%, and this includes painting the doors throughout your space. Use semi-gloss paint in a neutral color on the trim and doors. This makes a surface that is easy to clean.
• Panels and details. If your painter uses a roller for your interior door, they need to switch to an angled brush to paint edges, details, or panels.