Level Up Your Interior Style with the Best Paint for Doors & Trim
Transforming the look of your home can be as simple as giving your interior doors and trim a fresh coat of paint. But not all paints are created equal when it comes to providing a durable and stylish finish.
With the right products and techniques, you can elevate your interior style and enjoy an updated, high-end look.
What Type of Paint is Best for Interior Doors and Trim?
When selecting paint for interior trim and doors, you'll want to choose a product that provides maximum durability, ease of cleaning, and a beautiful finish.
Here are the top recommended paint options:
- Water-based acrylic paints - Offer excellent adhesion and are easy to apply and clean-up. Brands like Behr Marquee Interior and Benjamin Moore Advance are acrylics.
- Urethane-enhanced acrylics - Have increased durability and hardness from the urethane. Sherwin Williams ProClassic is a urethane acrylic option.
- Oil-based polyurethane paints - Known for a tough, protective finish but require caution when applying.
No matter which you choose, opt for paints with low-VOC. These have fewer volatile organic compounds, making them better for indoor air quality.
Top Paint Finish Options for Interior Trim and Doors
Choosing the right sheen is also important for interior doors and trim. Here are the top options:
- Semi-gloss - The most popular choice, provides subtle shine and excellent durability.
- Satin - Nearly as durable as semi-gloss but with a softer, elegant look.
- Matte - For a more modern, flat finish. May require more frequent touch-ups.
Stick with the same sheen throughout your home for a cohesive look. Semi-gloss is the best blend of protection and style.
Prepare Surfaces for the Best Results
While painting techniques are crucial, proper surface prep is even more vital for success. Be sure to:
- Clean thoroughly and degrease any existing paint or grime
- Fill any imperfections like holes and cracks with filler
- Sand glossy areas to help new paint adhere
- Prime unpainted wood before applying finish paint
Rushing through prep work can cause your new paint to fail prematurely. Take your time to do it right for a flawless painted finish.
How to Paint Interior Doors and Trim Like a Pro
Once your surface is prepped, you're ready to start painting. Follow these best practices for a professional look:
- Use painter's tape for ultra crisp edges and no drips
- Apply two coats with a high-quality angled brush
- Lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish
- Allow proper dry time between coats as recommended
Take care as you paint to keep your brush strokes all going in the same direction. Patience and attention to detail will ensure your doors and trim look like they were professionally painted.
Top Paint Brands and Products for Interior Trim
In terms of specific paint products, Behr Marquee Interior Enamel stands out as a top choice. Available exclusively at Home Depot, this acrylic paint resists stains, has excellent hide, and comes in all sheens and unlimited colors.
Other great options include Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin Williams ProClassic, and Valspar Reserve. Ask for low-VOC varieties at your local paint store.
Painting Interior Doors vs. Trim
Painting techniques don't differ much between doors and trim, but you'll want to pay special attention when painting doors to get into the grooves of paneling. Use a high-quality angled brush to cut-in the edges.
Also consider coordinating, but not necessarily matching your door and trim colors. Contrast adds interest.
Achieve a Flawless Finish
Meticulous painting is needed for a seamless look. After the main painting is complete:
- Inspect for any drips or brushstrokes and carefully smooth them out
- Do a final detail paint touch-up by brush around edges and hardware
- Allow full 2-4 week cure time before cleaning for maximum durability
Proper prep work, patience in application, and time for curing will result in interior doors and trim with a professionally painted look.
FAQs About Painting Interior Doors and Trim
How long does it take for trim paint to dry?
Drying times vary by paint brand and type, but oil-based paints take the longest at up to 24 hours. Water-based acrylics and latex paints dry more quickly in just 1-2 hours.
How do I get a smooth finish on interior trim?
Lightly sanding between coats helps level out the paint. Slow, even brush strokes are key for a smooth coat of paint. Allowing proper dry time between coats also prevents dripping or running.
Can I use the same paint on doors as on trim?
Yes, you can use the same paint for both interior doors and trim pieces. Just be sure to use a durable paint like an acrylic enamel and opt for the same sheen throughout.
Painting your interior doors and trim can completely transform the look and feel of your home's interiors. The key is using a high-quality acrylic enamel paint in a semi-gloss or satin sheen.
Prep properly, apply patiently, and protect your freshly painted surfaces. In no time, you'll be enjoying interior trim and doors worthy of a spread in your favorite home magazine.