Interior doors take more wear and tear than almost any other painted surface in a home. They’re touched constantly, knocked by furniture, exposed to sunlight, and often painted with older oil‑based products that yellow over time. A beautifully finished door can elevate an entire room, while a chipped, patchy or yellowed door can make even freshly painted walls feel tired.
This page explains how I prepare and paint interior doors to a premium standard, the materials I use, and what homeowners can expect when upgrading the doors throughout their home.
Why Doors Need Proper Preparation
Doors are one of the most challenging surfaces to paint well. They have:
- Large flat areas
- Edges and profiles
- Panels and mouldings
- High‑touch points
- Constant movement
This combination means any imperfections — brush marks, drips, rough patches, uneven sheen — are immediately visible.
In many Trowbridge homes, especially in Paxcroft Mead, Hilperton and Westbury Leigh, I see the same issues:
- Yellowed gloss from older oil‑based paints
- Chips around handles and edges
- Rough, uneven surfaces from previous DIY work
- Cracks around panel joints
- Patchy finishes where old paint has been touched up
- Doors that stick because of paint build‑up
A premium door finish requires patience, methodical preparation and the right materials — not just a quick coat of paint.
My Process for Painting Interior Doors
Painting doors properly is a multi‑stage process. Each step contributes to the final finish, durability and smoothness.
1. Removing Hardware (Where Possible)
Handles, latches and hinges are removed or masked carefully. This prevents paint build‑up and ensures crisp, clean edges.
2. Cleaning & Degreasing
Doors collect oils from hands, especially around handles. Cleaning ensures the primer bonds properly.
3. Filling & Repairing
Any dents, cracks or panel gaps are filled and sanded flush. This is essential for a flawless finish.
4. Sanding & Smoothing
This is one of the most important steps. I sand the entire door to:
- Remove gloss
- Smooth imperfections
- Flatten brush marks from previous coats
- Prepare the surface for primer
Dust‑free sanding ensures a clean, smooth base.
5. Priming
Priming is crucial, especially when:
- Switching from oil‑based to water‑based paint
- Covering dark colours
- Painting over glossy surfaces
- Dealing with stains or knots
A high‑quality primer ensures the topcoat adheres properly and dries evenly.
6. Applying the Topcoat
I use premium trade paints that give a smooth, durable finish. Modern water‑based satins and eggshells are ideal because they:
- Don’t yellow
- Dry quickly
- Are low‑odour
- Are more environmentally friendly
- Provide a clean, modern sheen
The topcoat is applied with high‑quality brushes and rollers for a smooth, even finish with no visible brush marks.
Types of Doors I Paint
Different doors require different techniques. I work with:
- Panel doors
- Flush doors
- Moulded doors
- Solid wood doors
- Veneered doors
- New‑build hollow‑core doors
Each type has its own preparation requirements, and I adjust my method accordingly.
Colour Choices for Interior Doors
Many homeowners in Trowbridge choose:
- Crisp white satin for a clean, modern look
- Soft neutrals to match flooring or furniture
- Deep colours (navy, charcoal, forest green) for a bold, contemporary feel
- Muted heritage tones for Victorian and older properties
I can help you choose a colour that suits your home’s style, lighting and layout.
How Long Does It Take to Paint Interior Doors?
The time required depends on:
- Number of doors
- Condition of the existing paint
- Whether hardware needs removing
- Whether stain‑blocking is required
- Drying times between coats
Why My Door Finishes Last Longer
My method is built around:
- Careful preparation
- Dust‑free sanding
- High‑quality primers
- Premium trade topcoats
- Clean, crisp application
- A calm, methodical workflow
This ensures your doors stay looking fresh, smooth and modern for years.
Common Questions About Painting Doors
Do you remove doors to paint them?
Not usually — most doors are painted in place unless there’s a specific reason to remove them.
Will the doors stick after painting?
No. Proper sanding and thin, even coats prevent sticking.
Can you fix dents and chips?
Yes — most imperfections can be filled and repaired.
Do you paint both sides?
Yes, unless you request otherwise.
Ready to Refresh Your Interior Doors?
If your doors are yellowed, chipped, patchy or simply outdated, a premium repaint can transform the look and feel of your home.
I work across Trowbridge, Hilperton, Paxcroft Mead and Westbury Leigh, delivering clean, durable, long‑lasting finishes.
Click here to arrange an appointment >