Mountain View, CA

How much does it cost to paint a garage door?

$100 – $230 paint 1-car garage door
$120 – $500 paint 2-car garage door
$170 – $680 paint 3-car garage door

Get free estimates from garage door painters near you, or view our cost guide below.

November 4, 2021

Reviewed by Tom Grupa and 6 expert painters on HomeGuide.

Cost to paint a garage door

The average cost to paint a garage door is $1 to $4 per square foot, depending on the door size and material, paint type, number of coats, and labor. Painting a 1-car garage costs $100 to $230. The cost to paint a 2-car garage door is $120 to $500.

Cost to paint a garage door - chart
Cost to paint a garage door - chart

Cost to paint a garage door
Door size Average cost
1-car garage door $100 – $230
2-car garage door $120 – $500
3-car garage door $170 – $680

Wooden 3-car garage doors painted sea blue
Wooden 3-car garage doors painted sea blue


Average garage door painting cost

The following table shows the average cost to paint a garage door.

Average garage door painting cost - chart
Average garage door painting cost - chart

Average garage door painting cost
National average cost $330
Minimum cost $100
Maximum cost $1,000
Average cost range $120 to $500

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

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Cost factors to paint a garage door

Additional costs to paint a garage door may include stripping and sanding old paint, power washing, repairs, painting trim, or applying more than two coats of paint.

Garage door painting cost factors
Factor Average cost
Garage door paint $25 – $80 per gallon
Painting labor $20 – $50 per hour
Supplies and materials $50 – $100
Power washing surface $50 – $160

Labor cost to paint a garage door

  • Painters charge $20 to $50 per hour, plus materials.
  • Materials include paper, masking and painter's tape, surface repair materials, solvents, and cleaning supplies.
  • Two coats of paint are standard, but low-quality paint may require three or more coats to get the same coverage, especially if painting over a dark color.
  • Stripping and sanding old paint costs $2 to $8 per square foot but is only required if the paint is cracking, peeling, or flaking.
  • Cleaning and pressure washing costs $50 to $160 for one hour.
  • Exterior trim painting costs $1 to $4 per linear foot.
  • Garage door repair costs $85 to $290. Typical repairs include fixing the springs, opener, cables, track, sensor, or locks.
  • New garage door installation costs $550 to $1,800 if the door is beyond repair.

2-car garage door painted smoke gray
2-car garage door painted smoke gray

Garage door paint prices

Garage door paint prices are $25 to $80 per gallon, depending on type and brand. High-end exterior paint is mildew-resistant and also resists fading and chipping. Painting a 2-car garage door requires one gallon of exterior paint for two to three coats.

Garage door paint prices
Paint type Price per gallon
Acrylic $30 – $80
Latex $25 – $55
Oil-based $35 – $65

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Frequently asked questions

Can you paint a garage door?

You can DIY paint a garage door with a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer, but it's time-consuming. Consider the age and condition of the existing door as it may be more cost-effective to replace an older door than to repaint.

Pros and cons of painting a garage door
Pros Cons
  • Simple way to improve curb appeal
  • Seals and protects the door from the elements, extending the lifespan
  • Protects against rust on metal doors
  • Cheaper than replacing the door
  • Painting adds weight to the door, which may put a strain on the opener
  • Replacing an old door improves energy efficiency
  • New doors have better safety features

How to paint a garage door

Follow these steps to paint a garage door:

  1. Patch and prep – Smooth any rough surfaces, then gently pressure wash the door or clean with dish soap and a sponge.
  2. Protect the surrounding area – Cover the driveway with a drop cloth. Tape off the seal along the bottom of the door and cover any trim not being painted.
  3. Position the garage door – Disengage the door from the drive mechanism for safety and lower the door manually onto a short block of wood for support.
  4. Prime the door – Apply a thin layer of primer using a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer. Let the primer dry for at least 12 hours.
  5. Paint the door – Paint the door from the top down with long, slow strokes to avoid streaking. Allow the paint to dry for 4 to 12 hours between coats.
  6. Allow ample drying time for the final coat – Leave the door open to dry for up to 12 hours to avoid damaging the new paint job.
For outdoor painting projects, select a three-day window with predicted temperatures between 50° and 75° F and low humidity.

What kind of paint to use on a garage door

The best paint to use on a garage door depends on the door material:

  • Aluminum doors require exterior acrylic paint.
  • Exterior latex paint is best for vinyl and wooden garage doors.
  • Oil-based or latex exterior paint is recommended for steel doors.
Best paint to use on garage door
Garage door material Best paint type
Aluminum Acrylic paint
Steel Oi-based or latex paint
Vinyl or plastic overlay Latex primer and paint with a bonding agent
Wood Latex paint and primer

How many gallons of paint does it take to cover a garage door?

One gallon of paint covers a standard two-car garage door in two to three coats, depending on the door material, surface condition, and color. More paint may be needed if painting:

  • On bare wood
  • A lighter color over a darker color, even if using primer
  • An older door with many imperfections
  • Oversized garage doors
  • Both the inside and outside of the garage door
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Hiring a garage door painter

Before hiring a contractor to paint a garage door, be sure to:

  • Research company reviews on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
  • Get at least three price quotes to compare.
  • Choose a company that is licensed, bonded, and insured.
  • Select companies that have been in business for at least five years.
  • Avoid choosing the cheapest quote as quality may suffer.
  • Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before work begins.
  • Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead.

Questions to ask

  • How many painting jobs have you completed in the last year?
  • Can you provide a list of references or a portfolio of your past work?
  • What brand of caulk, primer, and paint will you use?
  • How many coats of primer and paint does the quote include?
  • Does the estimate include cleanup?
  • What additional costs should I expect?
  • May I have a copy of your proof of insurance policy for my records?
  • Will you be using employees or subcontractors?
  • What time will the painters arrive and leave each day?
  • How long will the project take?
  • Do you offer a warranty or guarantee your work?

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