Shamatic

Home Improvement / February 13, 2025

By Shamatic

How Much Does It Cost to Paint an Interior Door?

Painting an interior door is an easy and affordable way to update your home’s look without undergoing a major renovation. Whether you want to modernize an old door, hide scratches, or simply refresh your space with a new color, painting is an effective solution. But how much does it actually cost? The price can vary depending on factors like the type of paint, labor fees, the door’s material, and any prep work involved.

In this guide, we will break down the cost of painting an interior door, covering materials, labor expenses, and DIY vs. professional painting.

Table of Contents

Factors That Affect the Cost of Painting an Interior Door

The total cost of painting an interior door varies based on multiple factors. Here are the key elements that influence the final price:

1. Type of Door

Different door materials require different painting techniques and preparation methods. The type of door you have can impact the price:

Hollow-core doors – These lightweight doors are the easiest to paint and cost less since they require minimal preparation.
Solid wood doors – These require more prep work, such as sanding and priming, increasing the cost.
Paneled doors – If your door has multiple panels or intricate designs, the labor cost will be higher.
Metal or fiberglass doors – Special primers and paints are needed for these surfaces, increasing the overall cost.

2. Paint Quality & Type

The cost of paint varies depending on the quality and type you choose:

Latex paint – Water-based, dries quickly, and is less expensive (costs around $10-$50 per gallon).
Oil-based paint – More durable but takes longer to dry and costs slightly more ($15-$60 per gallon).
Primer – If your door is unfinished or previously painted in a dark color, you’ll need a primer, adding $10-$30 per gallon.
High-gloss vs. satin finishes – High-gloss finishes cost more but are more durable, making them ideal for frequently used doors.

3. Labor Costs

If you hire a professional painter, labor will be one of the biggest expenses. On average, painters charge:

$50-$150 per door (depending on complexity and prep work).
$20-$50 per hour for labor costs.
If doors need repairs or stripping old paint, additional labor fees apply.

4. Preparation Work

Sanding and priming – If the existing paint is chipped or the door is unfinished, sanding and priming are necessary, increasing costs.
Removing hardware – Taking off hinges, handles, and locks ensures a smoother finish but adds time and labor.
Masking and taping – Protecting surrounding areas with painter’s tape and drop cloths takes additional time.

5. DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

DIY painting costs:

Paint: $15-$60
Primer (if needed): $10-$30
Brushes/Rollers: $5-$20
Painter’s Tape: $5-$10
Sandpaper: $3-$10

Total DIY cost per door: $40-$120

Professional painting costs:

Labor: $50-$150
Paint & Supplies: $20-$80

Total Professional cost per door: $100-$250

Cost Breakdown of Painting an Interior Door

Here is a graphical table answering how much to paint an interior door.

Expense	DIY Cost	Professional Cost
Paint & Primer	$25-$90	Included in service
Brushes & Rollers	$5-$20	Included in service
Labor	Free	$50-$150 per door
Total Per Door	$40-$120	$100-$250

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Paint an Interior Door

Painting an interior door is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a weekend. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Preparation

Remove the door from its hinges and lay it flat on a work surface.
Clean the door with a mild detergent and water.
Sand the door lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
Apply a primer to the door to help the paint adhere better and prevent bleed-through.

2. Painting

Apply a thin coat of paint to the door with a brush or roller.
Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.
If necessary, apply a third coat of paint.

3. Finishing

Allow the paint to dry completely before reattaching the door to its hinges.
Clean up any drips or spills.

Tips

Use a high-quality paint for a durable finish.
Apply thin coats of paint to avoid drips and runs.
Allow the paint to dry completely between coats.
If you are painting a door with panels, paint the panels first, then the stiles (the vertical and horizontal pieces framing the panels).
If you are painting a door that is already painted, you may not need to prime it. However, it is always a good idea to sand the door lightly before painting.
If you are painting a door that is bare wood, you will need to prime it before painting.

Additional Considerations

The type of paint you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve. For a traditional look, use a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. For a more modern look, use a flat or eggshell paint.
The color of the paint should complement the other colors in the room.
If you are not sure how to paint a door, there are many resources available online and in home improvement stores.

With a little time and effort, you can paint your interior doors yourself and achieve a professional-looking finish.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does it cost to paint an interior door? The price ranges from $40-$120 for DIY and $100-$250 for professional painting. Factors such as paint type, labor, door material, and prep work affect the overall cost.

If you want to refresh your home affordably, painting your interior doors is a simple yet impactful way to enhance your space. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a pro, a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference!