How much does it cost to paint a door?

Cost to paint a door

The average cost to paint a door is $100 to $250, depending on the size, condition, prep work, options, and number of coats.

• The average cost to paint an interior door is $75 to $150.
• The average cost to paint an exterior door is $100 to $175.
• The average cost to paint a front door is $125 to $225.

• Door paint prices are $15 to $60 per gallon.
• The labor cost to paint doors is $20 to $50 per hour.

Average cost to paint a door

The following table shows the average cost to paint a door:

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

Cost to paint interior doors

The cost to paint a interior door is $75 to $400, depending on the door type (flat vs. 6-panel) and dimensions. Larger and more intricate door styles increase the price.

*Includes material and labor for both sides.

Cost to paint interior doors and trim, frame, or jambs

• The cost to paint an interior door and trim is $40 to $125 per side.
• Painting a French door and trim costs $150 to $200 per side.
• The cost to paint a door frame alone is $1 to $4 per linear foot.

Cost to paint bifold doors

The cost to paint interior bifold doors is $75 to $150 on average, depending on the number of panels. Sliding bifold doors with solid panels on hinges are typical for closets and small storage rooms. Their design makes them easy to paint.

Cost to paint French doors

The cost to paint French doors is $200 to $400 on average. More time, preparation, and skill are necessary to protect the glass panes inside these doors while painting. Highly detailed frames also increase labor time.

Paint kitchen cabinet doors

The cost to paint kitchen cabinets is $900 to $3,800 on average or $50 to $100 per door. Total costs vary depending on the cabinet layout, size, number of paint coats, and condition of the cabinets.

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Cost to paint an exterior or front door

The cost to paint an exterior door is $75 to $400, depending on the type and size. The cost to paint a front door is $125 to $225 on average. Prices increase for doors with sidelights or doors that require more than 1 hour of prep work.

*Prices include materials and labor.

Paint a garage door

The cost to paint a garage door is $150 to $550 on average or $1 to $4 per square foot. Total costs depend on the garage size, material, paint type, and location.

Cost to paint Bilco basement doors

The cost to paint steel Bilco doors is $230 to $470 for both sides. Removing rust and replacing old hardware increases labor costs. Bilco doors are standard storm-cellar doors.

Cost to paint an exterior door frame

The cost to paint an exterior door frame is $20 to $80 on average or $1 to $4 per linear foot. Total costs depend on the door size, style, frame material, and the number of coats.

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Labor cost to paint doors

The cost to hire a painter is $20 to $50 per hour or $1 to $5 per square foot, depending on the prep work, door type, and project size. Labor typically includes removing or masking hardware, light cleaning, scraping, sanding, priming, and applying two coats of high-quality paint.

*Labor cost only. Not including materials.

Door paint prices

Door paint prices are $15 to $60 per gallon, depending on the finish and brand. Primer costs $15 to $50 per gallon on average when repainting a door.

*Material prices only.

Door paint prices by primer type

Door paint materials and supplies cost

DIY materials and supplies to paint a door cost $45 to $120 on average. Professional painters recommend using a 2.0- to 2.5-inch paintbrush for the inset and trim, followed by a paint roller for the main surface.

How much paint is needed for a door?

Painting an average door takes one quart of primer and one quart of paint for two coats on both sides. The door type, current color, surface condition, and material will determine the amount of primer and paint needed.

• Use one coat when using a 2-in-1 paint and primer or when using premium paint.
• Use two coats of primer and paint for drastic color changes, painting over a glossy surface, and to ensure an even shade of color.
• Do not use oil-based products with water-based primer and paint.

What type of paint is needed?

You can paint wood, metal, steel, plastic, vinyl, and fiberglass doors with the proper preparation and paint:

• Oil-based paints are for metal and steel.
• Use acrylic, epoxy resin, or polyurethane paint on fiberglass.
• Use latex-based paint with a bonding agent for vinyl to prevent damaging the material.

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Hiring a door painting service

Before hiring a door painting service:

• Compare at least three in-person estimates.
• Look at their reviews on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Seek certified, insured, and bonded companies with 5+ years of experience.
• For homes built before 1978, ask for painters with EPA Lead Paint Certification.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Avoid companies with the cheapest quotes as quality may suffer.
• Avoid making large payments upfront and never pay in cash.

Questions to ask door painters

• How long have you been painting?
• Can you provide a list of references and a portfolio?
• Do you provide free estimates?
• Does this quote include cleanup costs and prep work? What additional fees can I expect?
• Will you charge extra to move the furniture or repair the door before painting?
• Which paint type do you recommend and why?
• Do exterior doors cost more to paint for extra layers or a special sealant?
• What waterproofing options do you have for exterior doors?
• Do you offer nontoxic paints if I’m allergic to heavy chemicals?
• What do I need to do to prepare my home for the project?
• What happens if you get paint on the floor or furniture?
• Do you offer discounts for painting all the doors in my house at once?
• Will you manage the project yourself or use subcontractors?
• How long will the project take?
• Do you offer a warranty or guarantee your work?
• Will you provide a signed copy of the agreement?

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