Introduction
Applying paint to a door frame can change the appearance of a room since it matches the walls and other frames. It is also an inexpensive transformation that does not consume much time or energy. One of the first things you might ask when considering this project is the cost. The cost of painting a door frame depends on the following factors.
Cost Factors
Size and Shape
Some doors will have larger frames than others, meaning that more paint and time will be needed during the process. A standard interior door frame may take 1 to 2 quarts of paint, and the time taken could be 2 to 4 hours. Larger or shaped exterior frames require more paint and will take longer than standard frames.
Type of Paint
The cost of materials will vary depending on the type of paint used in the project.
Here are some of the most common options:
– Latex paint – $20 to $50 per gallon
– Oil-based enamel – $35 to $60 per gallon
– High-end paint that includes primer – $30 to $80 per gallon
While latex is suitable for most situations, oil-based paint gives a longer-lasting finish. There are specialty paints that are easier to prepare the surface for painting, but they come at a higher price.
Preparation Work Required
If the old paint is chalking, blistering, or otherwise unsuitable, then sanding or scraping may be needed to smooth the surface for the new layer of paint. This extra work can cost anywhere from $25 to $50 in labor time. This suggests that new wood frames that have not been painted before require minimum preparation for repainting.
Painting Method
Painting by brush is relatively less expensive for doors and trims than other methods. Spray painting involves additional equipment rental or purchase costs and applies to large open spaces only. If you are hiring a professional, it will prove to be more costly compared to painting the house independently.
Number of Coats
Although you may wish to apply a single coat of paint, it is recommended that there be two coats of paint to achieve an even surface and color. The second layer of paint might cost approximately $10 to $30 in paint and labor.
Estimated Cost Ranges
Taking these factors into account, here are some typical price ranges:
DIY Project
– Small interior door, latex paint – $30 to $70
– A sizeable exterior door, using oil-based primer and paint – $90 to $150
Professional Painter Rates
– Interior door framing – $100 to $200
– Exterior door framing- $250 to $400
These are rough calculations only; specific costs and prices may differ mainly depending on the region. The best approach to budgeting is to ask for price quotes from the local paint stores and painters.
Cost Savings Tips
You should buy paints when they are on sale or from discount shops. Take time to seek proper paint that will cost between 25-50% less than the usual market price.
Get paint and primer combo products to help you save on supplies and time spent.
You should only purchase paint in quantities that are required for the specific project being undertaken.
While using paint sprayers, ensure that you keep off the excess paint that may cause mistakes or may need a touch-up.
Ensure that walls are well prepped so it only requires one coat of paint.
Paint door frames while doing trim or wall paint, or at least avoid painting the door frames on different days. Joint projects help to use more supplies and painters’ working time effectively.
Factors that Increase Cost
– If the underlying pavement surface is severely damaged, then immediate repairs are needed
– Abnormal frame dimension or geometry or placement
– Application of specialty paint such as high-gloss enamel
– Solvent-based paint and spray-painting equipment rental
– Use of different hues, surfaces, or painting styles
– Find out the prices offered by a professional painter rather than performing a do-it-yourself job
Conclusion
It is easy to see significant changes from a small project, like painting a door frame. Measures such as purchasing cheaper paint, surface preparation, and painting different items simultaneously assist in cost control. In most cases, motivated DIYers should be able to paint even the large exterior frames within the $100-200 mark with adequate preparation. Even a change of color in walls makes such a vast difference, so refinishing door frames is one of the best investments any homeowner can make.
