Which Paint Should Be Used On Inside Doors And Trim?

Trim paint is a category of interior paint that is formulated specifically for use on trim, with a satin, semi-gloss, gloss, or high gloss sheen. It usually comes pretinted in bright white and in base. Oil-based paint ($20 to $50 per gallon) has a thicker consistency and longer drying time compared to water-based latex or acrylic paint, making it ideal for filling small scratches, divots, or minor imperfections in the trim work. It won’t sag after application and can be applied in tight areas like corners and curved profiles.

For interior doors, either latex-based or acrylic paint is typically used. High-quality latex-based paint can be used for interior doors, while external doors need a different finish. Painting an interior door not only freshens up the room but also gives it a new look. You can choose to paint a door on or off its hinges.

Invest at least $10 on a quality 2- to 2½-inch sash brush to paint the door and trim. If you prefer using a roller, consider those with microfiber roller sleeves. Acrylic latex paint can be a great choice for interior trim, but it won’t match the toughness of oil-based paint. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are popular choices for doors due to their subtle shine and easy-to-clean characteristics. Glossy finishes can be difficult to clean and may require a urethane, alkyd, or oil.

Two types of paint are optimized for painting interior doors and trim: alkyd/oil-based and acrylic latex/enamel. Semi-gloss and high-gloss sheens are the best option for interior doors, as they will be exposed to high-traffic, scrapes, scuffs, and other potential damages.

What sheen is best for baseboards and doors?

The paint sheen used for interior trim affects the level of light reflected off the finish. The most common and best sheen is a satin or semi-gloss finish. Satin paints have a medium sheen and are durable and easy to clean, while semi-gloss paints have a higher sheen and stand out in a room. If you prefer a lower sheen or want to paint walls and trim the same color and sheen, use a satin paint finish. This is especially recommended for areas with imperfections in drywall. A full skim coat or “Level 5” finish can be done, but it can be expensive and not suitable for most applications.

Should interior doors be gloss or satin?

Satin paint is a medium-sheen finish paint suitable for interior woodwork that needs to be painted but is not in perfect condition. It is less reflective than gloss paint, allowing it to hide small imperfections like dents, scratches, or chips. Satin paint is versatile, available in a wide range of colors and finishes, and can be used on various surfaces like trim, cabinetry, and doors. It is also less slippery than gloss paint, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, staircases, and entryways. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want a soft, muted look without the drama of gloss.

Do you need to prime interior doors before painting?

To paint a door, primer is necessary if painting over oil-based paint, and no primer is needed for latex-based paint. If priming is necessary, sand the entire surface with 220-grit sandpaper after it dries. Always paint the door in one go, as pauses can cause uneven drying and a patchy finish. Latex-based paints take about four hours to dry between coats, while oil-based paints take 24 hours. After the first coat, sand the surface with 320-grit sanding paper and wipe clean and dry with a mineral spirit dampened cloth before moving on to the second coat. Paneled doors should be painted in a specific order.

What is the best type of paint for interior doors and trim?

For interior doors, avoid satin finishes and opt for glossier finishes for durability and easy cleaning. Semi-gloss and high-gloss sheens are best due to high-traffic exposure and potential damage. Sherwin-Williams Semi-Gloss Pro Classic is the top recommendation for interior paint due to its durability, ease of application, and long-lasting finish. This high-quality paint product provides a visually appealing look and is easy to apply, making it a durable and easy-to-clean option.

Do interior doors need special paint?

Interior acrylic-latex paint is a popular choice for freshening up doors, with options including eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss sheens. It is important to avoid flat or matte paint on doors, which are typically 68 square feet in size. Painting an interior door can be done on or off its hinges, and it is generally preferable to remove the door from its hinges. After removing the door, it is possible to paint it flat, which allows access to all parts of the door, reduces paint drips, and allows for off-site painting in a separate room. This method ensures the project doesn’t block any rooms and provides a new look to the room.

Should I use the same paint for doors and trim?

Paint walls, doors, and trim in a hue you love to create a positive energy-filled space that reflects your personality. If you’re worried about a single-color look feeling too flush, consider using a multi-sheen finish for depth and differentiation. For trim, use a satin finish and for doors, a gloss finish. Elevated style starts with drawing the eye up, and when trim blends with the wall, it creates the illusion of a continuous space. For high ceilings, painting everything in one color will create a loftier look.

For lower ceilings, this painting trick is great for visually lengthening the space. Overall, choosing a hue that speaks to you can create a confident and confident home that reflects your personality.

What is the best finish for interior doors?

The paint finish on your door can significantly influence its appearance. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are popular due to their shine and easy-to-clean properties. Glossy finishes can highlight imperfections but can be more striking. The paint color can transform your space, so choose a color that complements your style and room design. Lighting also plays a role in the paint color’s appearance. Choose between latex (water-based) and oil-based paints, each with its pros and cons. Latex is easy to work with and clean, while oil offers a smooth, durable finish.

What kind of white paint for trim and doors?

For the perfect white paint for interior doors and trim, consider using White Dove, Decorator’s White, Cloud White, and Chantilly Lace. These paints offer a range of styles, from classic shades of white to saturated hues that make decorative features pop. Painted trim can be used as a hero or a supporting role, and there is no such thing as “trim paint”. Quality paint used on walls or ceilings is perfectly fine for trim, with homeowners opting for a higher sheen to differentiate it from the paint on their walls.

Locally owned stores can help you choose the product that best suits your project. Advance ® Interior, a popular choice for professional painters and DIYers, cures to a hard, furniture-quality finish with outstanding coverage and hide. Engineered with Gennex ® Color Technology, Advance is available in all of Benjamin Moore’s 3, 500+ colors and is a great choice for trim paint.

What is the most common paint finish for interior doors?

The paint finish on your door can significantly influence its appearance. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are popular due to their shine and easy-to-clean properties. Glossy finishes can highlight imperfections but can be more striking. The paint color can transform your space, so choose a color that complements your style and room design. Lighting also plays a role in the paint color’s appearance. Choose between latex (water-based) and oil-based paints, each with its pros and cons. Latex is easy to work with and clean, while oil offers a smooth, durable finish.

Should trim and doors be satin or semi-gloss?

Semi-gloss paint is commonly used for baseboards, door casings, crown molding, cabinets, and doors due to its high sheen and durability. It reflects light well, highlighting trim details, and is suitable for surfaces that require frequent cleaning. The application process for glossier paints like satin and semi-gloss is similar, but higher sheens require more detailed preparation to remove imperfections. Semi-gloss is the best finish for painting furniture due to its light reflection, durability, and ease of cleaning.