A Guide to Choosing the Right Paint, Finish, and Techniques

Your interior doors are more than just functional barriers; they’re integral parts of your home’s aesthetic. Choosing the right paint for them can breathe new life into your space, offering a fresh, updated look. However, with a myriad of options available—different brands, finishes, and types—the decision can be overwhelming. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best paints for interior doors, delve into the specifics of latex and oil-based paints, and provide expert tips for achieving a professional finish.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and transform your interior doors into stunning focal points of your home.

Best Paint Brands for Interior Doors

Selecting the right paint brand is crucial for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. Here’s a curated list of top-tier brands renowned for their quality paints suitable for interior doors:

1. Benjamin Moore: Renowned for quality and durability, Benjamin Moore offers a range of finishes, including Advance and Aura lines, known for their excellent coverage and robust finish.
2. Sherwin-Williams: A favorite among professionals, Sherwin-Williams offers high-grade paints like ProClassic and Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, known for their durability and smooth finish.
3. Dulux: Known for its Diamond Interior Acrylic paint, Dulux offers excellent flow and leveling properties, providing a smooth finish.
4. Farrow & Ball: If you desire deep, rich colors, Farrow & Ball’s Estate Eggshell is an environmentally friendly option with rich pigments.
5. Valspar: Valspar’s Cabinet Enamel Semi-Gloss Latex Interior Paint is praised for its non-yellowing formula and durability.
6. Behr: Behr’s Marquee Interior Semi-Gloss offers excellent coverage and durability, ideal for high-traffic areas.
7. PPG: PPG’s Manor Hall Interior Paint is known for its excellent adhesion and resistance to spotting and streaking.
8. Glidden: Glidden’s Premium Interior Paint and Primer offers good value with low-VOC, low-odor formula.
9. Rust-Oleum: Specialized in durable finishes, Rust-Oleum’s Protective Enamel is chip-resistant, ideal for doors.
10. KILZ: KILZ offers a range of paints, including Tribute Satin Paint and Primer in One, known for excellent coverage and easy application.

Best Finishes for Interior Doors

Choosing the right finish is as important as selecting the paint color. Consider factors such as location, traffic, and desired aesthetic. Here are some top finishes to consider:

1. Satin: Offers a subtle sheen, resistant to dirt and stains, suitable for most interior doors.
2. Semi-Gloss: Reflective and durable, easy to clean, ideal for high-traffic areas.
3. Gloss: Provides high shine and durability, but may highlight imperfections.
4. Eggshell: Offers a soft glow, less resistant to wear but perfect for creating a warm atmosphere.
5. Matte/Flat: Provides a modern, stylish appearance, suitable for low-traffic areas.

Latex-Based vs. Oil-Based Paints

Choosing between latex and oil-based paints is a crucial decision, each with its own set of attributes:

1. Latex-Based Paints: Popular for their quick drying time, easy cleanup, and low odor. They’re durable, flexible, and have lower VOC levels, making them environmentally friendly.
2. Oil-Based Paints: Known for smooth application and durable finish. They cover imperfections well and offer a smoother surface finish but require longer drying times.

What to Consider When Choosing Paint for Interior Doors

Consider these factors to ensure you select the best paint for your interior doors:

1. Durability: Choose paint that can withstand regular use without chipping or wearing off.
2. Finish: Select a finish that complements your space and desired aesthetic.
3. Paint Color: Transform your space with the right color that suits your style and lighting conditions.
4. Type of Paint: Decide between latex and oil-based paints based on application preferences and desired finish.
5. VOCs: Opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints for a more eco-friendly choice.
6. Brand Reputation: Choose trusted brands known for quality and reliability, like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams.

How to Paint Interior Doors Achieve a professional finish with these step-by-step instructions:

Attached Doors:

1. Prepare the area by laying down a drop cloth and masking hardware.
2. Clean and sand the door to remove dirt and gloss.
3. Prime the door for better adhesion.
4. Apply paint evenly with a brush and roller, allowing each coat to dry fully.
5. Reattach hardware once the paint is dry.

Unattached Doors:

1. Remove the door and hardware.
2. Clean, sand, and prime the door.
3. Paint the door on a flat surface, applying multiple coats as needed.
4. Reattach hardware and hang the door back on its hinges.

Should You Use the Same Paint for Interior Doors & Trim?

Matching or contrasting door and trim colors depends on your design preference:

1. Matching Colors: Creates a cohesive look, ideal for a seamless aesthetic.
2. Contrasting Colors: Adds depth and interest, highlighting architectural features.

Consider the Door Frame: Paint the door frame to match the door or trim for a cohesive look, or contrast for visual interest.

In Summary

Choosing between latex and oil-based paints is a crucial decision for homeowners and professional painters alike. Each type offers distinct advantages, influencing the final appearance and durability of your interior doors. Latex-based paints, also known as water-based paints, are favored by many homeowners and painters in Eugene, Oregon, for their ease of use, quick drying time, and easy cleanup with soap and water. On the other hand, oil-based paints are renowned for their smooth application and durable finish, making them particularly suitable for high-traffic areas.