Refresh Your Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Doors do a lot more than open and close. They provide privacy, block noise, keep out drafts—and when styled right, they also add character to your home. But with daily use, doors can quickly show signs of wear and tear. The good news? Giving them a fresh new look is easier than you think. 

With the right tools and a little patience, you can easily revive tired interior and exterior doors. This guide will walk you through three simple stages: Prepare, Repair, and Paint. 

What You’ll Need 

• Screwdriver 

• Sugar soap (or equivalent)  and water 

• Drop sheet 

• Painters tape 

• Scraper 

• Filler suitable for hard surfaces (like timber) 

• Sandpaper 

• Cloth rags 

• Primer 

• Paint 

• Quality synthetic paintbrush 

• Roller suitable for semi-gloss and gloss paint 

Step 1: Prepare Your Door 

Preparation is always the key to a professional finish. 

1. Use an appropriate screwdriver to remove knobs, handles, and hardware. Keep them handy as they’ll need to be reinstalled when the painting is completed.  

1. Lay down a drop sheet to protect your floor. 

1. Clean the door with a mild cleaning solution, rinse, and let it dry completely. 

Step 2: Repair Any Damage 

A smooth surface means a smoother paint finish. 

1. Inspect the door for any damage or blemishes 

1. Scrape away any loose or flaking paint. 

1. Fill cracks or holes with a suitable proprietary filler. Consider using a specialist fine filler for interior doors. Allow to dry.  

1. Once dry, sand lightly until smooth and wipe away dust. 

Step 3: Paint for a Lasting Finish 

Time to transform your door with a fresh coat of paint. 

1. Tape off edges to walls, glass panels, or fittings you don’t want painted. 

1. Apply a premium primer for better adhesion and a flawless finish. 

1. Use a quality synthetic brush for panels and recessed areas, then a low-profile roller for flat surfaces.  

1. Allow the first coat to dry, then apply a second coat following the paint manufacturer's instructions. 

1. Once dry, score along the painter’s tape with a sharp knife before removing it for crisp, clean edges. 

Don’t Forget 

• Keep the room ventilated while painting. 

• Allow enough drying time between coats and before reattaching hardware. 

• Paint can take up to 30 days to fully cure, so do take care with doors and trim during this period to avoid damage.  

With these simple steps, your doors won’t just look new—they’ll add style, polish, and personality to your home.