Cost to Paint a Front Door by Size
When painting your exterior door, it’s important to know what size it is. That way, you can determine how much paint you need. Before you start buying paint and hiring a contractor, be sure to measure your front door. To help you get started, here are some of the most common house door sizes. The most common size is 8’0” x 3’6”. Depending on how big your door is, you can expect to pay between $90 and $350.
| Door Size | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 6’6” x 2’0” | $90 - $200 |
| 6’8” x 2’8” | $100 - $225 |
| 7’0” x 2’10” | $125 - $275 |
| 8’0” x 3’6” | $150 - $350 |
Front Door Painting Cost by Material
The material your door is made out of determines the type of paint you need, which impacts the overall cost of your project. A handful of common materials are usually used for front doors. Depending on the type of door you have, you can expect to pay between $85 and $350.
| Door Material | Average Cost to Paint (Labor Included) |
|---|
| Composite | $85 - $130 |
| Metal | $90 - $250 |
| Wood | $125 - $285 |
| Vinyl | $130 - $300 |
| Fiberglass | $150 - $350 |
Cost to Paint a Composite Front Door
Painting composite doors costs between $85 and $130. Composites are much less expensive than other materials. However, different types have different needs, so it’s important to know their particularities. For example, certain wood composites may be pre-primed, and any extra sanding could damage them. Others may need to be treated before being painted, or it won’t last. It is important to note that a pre-primed door will be more expensive initially, making the painting job less costly overall. It is generally best to use oil-based paints on composite doors because they provide better coverage overall.
The average cost to paint a metal door ranges from $90 to $250. A few different types of metal doors are available, including aluminum, steel, and iron. The price to paint these types of doors doesn’t change among the three. The painting process is quite simple because metal is naturally smooth. The best way to paint a metal door is with a pressurized spray paint. This will bond to the surface much better than paint applied with a brush or a roller. The surface of the door must be clean before your painters get to work. Both oil-based and latex paints can be used on metal doors due to their fade- and rust-resistant qualities.
Cost to Paint a Wood Front Door
It costs between $125 and $285 to paint a wooden door. The process can be a bit time-consuming, but when done right, the results last a long while. When painting a wood door, your contractor will remove the door and sand it to ensure you have an even surface. Latex-based paint is often best for wood doors because of its flexibility and durability. Wood doors can also be stained, which is a less time-consuming process. However, stain doesn’t last as long and is more expensive.
Price to Paint a Vinyl Front Door
The cost to paint a vinyl 1 door runs between $130 and $300. When painting a vinyl door, it’s important to use a primer first. This helps the color properly adhere to the vinyl. When painting vinyl doors, your contractor can either spray paint or roll-on paint. Spray painting is faster but quite messy. Rolling is the safer option. However, it is more time-consuming, which impacts the overall cost of the project. When painting a vinyl door, your painters will use a primer with a bonding agent and one to two coats of exterior latex paint. This is the best way to ensure the paint lasts.
Price to Paint a Fiberglass Front Door
Painting a fiberglass 2 door generally costs between $150 and $350. This process generally requires a more gentle and calculated touch. If you use too many layers of paint, it will completely ruin the texture of the door. For this reason, you don’t want to use a primer or a topcoat. The best paint for a fiberglass door is an acrylic latex paint. This paint adheres well to fiberglass, is less likely to crack or blister, and is easy to clean.
Front Door Paint Price by Type of Paint
Due to their ability to stop harmful UV rays from damaging the door, oil-based and water-based paints are the two best options for painting your front door. The right option for you depends on your budget for your project, the climate you live in, and the material of your door. Depending on which paint type you choose, you can expect to pay between $15 and $70.
| Type of Paint | Average Cost per Gallon (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Water-Based | $20 - $50 |
| Oil-Based | $20 - $70 |
| Chalk Paint | $80 - $160 |
Water-Based Paint
Water-based or latex paint costs between $20 and $50 per gallon. It is among the most common and eco-friendly paint options. It dries much faster than other paint and produces fewer odors. One advantage to latex paint is it can be used over oil-based paint. The other way around is not possible. It also holds its color longer than other types. Water-based paint is best for wood that doesn’t bleed and fiberglass.
Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint costs approximately $20 to $70 per gallon. This type of paint takes longer to dry but offers a smoother application overall. Since it takes about six to eight hours to dry, it leaves your painters a bit of time if mistakes are made. Oil-based paint also provides more complete coverage but is more expensive than the water-based alternatives. Cleaning is a bit more intense because you need turpentine or paint thinner to get the job done. This paint is best used on metal and wood that bleeds.
Chalk Paint for a Front Door
Though it is a less-used option, it is also possible to use chalk paint for your front door. On average, this type of paint is the most expensive and costs between $80 and $160 per gallon. This is really only a viable option if you live in a temperate area because chalk paint won’t hold up on its own against the elements. On the plus side, it involves virtually no prep work. When using chalk paint, your contractors will have to remove the door and paint it inside. It will then have to stay inside for about three to four days to dry fully.
Front Door Paint Cost by Type of Finish
The finish you choose for your exterior door is one of the most important aspects of any paint job because it determines how noticeable or subtle your door is. It protects your door from the elements, impacts, and more. Depending on what type you choose, you can expect to pay between $15 and $70 per gallon.
| Type of Finish | Average Cost per Gallon (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Matte | $15 - $40 |
| Eggshell | $30 - $50 |
| Satin | $30 - $50 |
| Semi-Gloss | $40 - $60 |
| High-Gloss | $50 - $70 |
Matte Front Door Paint
If you’re considering using a matte or flat paint on your exterior door, you can expect to pay $15 to $40 per gallon. Matte finishes are generally the least expensive, making them a good choice for anyone on a budget. However, they are less durable than their semi- and high-gloss counterparts. They are more susceptible to fading and mildew, so you should not use them in very hot, sunny climates. You’ll have to be more careful with them. Doors are high-contact areas, so there are more chances for them to get damaged. Newer brands of matte paint are more stain-resistant and easy to wash. Be sure to do your research if you plan to use this type of paint on your front door.
Eggshell Exterior Paint
Eggshell paint costs between $30 and $50 per gallon. Eggshell finishes are best used on wooden surfaces but can be used on doors of all types. They aren’t very glossy but still offer a slight shine that attracts the eye. This makes them the perfect middle ground for your home’s exterior. Eggshell is not very reflective, so it does a good job of hiding imperfections. It also protects your home from seasonal weather changes.
Satin Front Door Paint
Satin paint costs approximately $30 to $50 per gallon. Satin finish is a great choice for wood doors. It provides almost a velvet-like texture with a subtle shine. A satin finish reflects a small bit of light and helps hide any chips or scratches on the surface. Satin is ideal for high-contact areas because it resists fading, peeling, and more. However, it should not be used on a door with visible damage since it will actually magnify it.
Semi-Gloss Front Door Paint
A gallon of semi-gloss paint costs between $40 and $60. Glossy paint is preferred for exterior doors because it makes them stand out against the rest of your exterior. Plus, it is far more resistant to scratches and scuffs than a flat or eggshell finish. Also, a semi-gloss finish is easier to clean. Semi-gloss paint reflects a lot of light, so it should only be used on perfectly smooth surfaces. Overall, semi-gloss is the best choice for exterior doors made of any material.
High-Gloss Paint for Front Door
High-gloss paint generally costs between $50 and $70 per gallon. If you’re looking to make a statement, high-gloss paint is the way to go. As we stated above, glossier paints are better for doors in terms of style and durability. High-gloss paint protects the surface of your door and grabs the attention of guests and passersby. Due to its durability, it is the easiest to clean and maintain. High-gloss finish can be used on any type of door.
Exterior Door Primer Cost by Type
On average, exterior door primers 3 cost between $15 and $80. Primers help you get beautiful, long-lasting results by leveling uneven areas, sealing porous surfaces, and making the exterior paint better adhere to the surface. Using a primer is only really necessary if you plan to paint over a different color, but it is often still recommended for new paint jobs.
Adhesive primers are made with a strongly diluted adhesive that is combined with a coupling agent. They can be used with oil-based and water-based paints, making them a versatile option for any door. Oil-based primers are best used with oil-based paints. They are great for blocking odors and stains such as rust, smoke, water, and wood tannins. Shellac-based primers are not best suited for large spans of exterior surfaces due to their brittle nature. However, they can be used successfully on a door. They are most useful for painting over old varnish, stain, oil-based paint, and more. Shellac is great for fixing problems before any painting begins. Water-based, or latex, primers are very easy to clean up and have low- and no-VOC formulas, making them a healthier choice. They are resistant to stains like grease, ink, and scuff marks.
| Type of Primer | Average Cost per Gallon (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Adhesive | $15 - $60 |
| Oil-Based | $20 - $50 |
| Shellac | $20 - $60 |
| Latex | $20 - $80 |
Front Door Paint Cost by Paint Brand
Many choices must be made when it comes to painting your exterior doors, including the brand of paint you want to use. Different brands offer a wide range of paints. Each brand features its own unique benefits. To choose the best one, you’ll have to consider your budget, color preferences, functional needs, and more. Depending on the brand of paint you choose, you can expect to pay between $14 and $108 per gallon.
| Paint Brand | Average Cost per Gallon (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Benjamin Moore | $15 - $55 |
| Behr | $25 - $60 |
| Valspar | $25 - $80 |
| PPG | $35 - $80 |
| Sherwin Williams | $40 - $115 |
Benjamin Moore Front Door Paint
It costs between $14 and $53 per gallon for Benjamin Moore exterior paint. Benjamin Moore first opened their doors in 1883 and has been producing high-quality paints and finishes ever since. Their exterior paints provide excellent durability and protection for your home. These paints are moisture-resistant and long-lasting, which means you can have peace of mind knowing your door is protected through every season.
Behr Paint for a Front Door
Behr exterior paint costs between $24 and $60 per gallon. Behr was founded in 1947 and is one of the biggest paint and primer manufacturers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Their wide range of exterior paints is known for their flexibility and durability, making them a great choice for exterior use. They are resistant to moisture, fading, stains, and mildew growth. It can be applied with a brush, a roller, or a paint sprayer.
Valspar Exterior Door Paint
The average cost of Valspar exterior paint is between $24 and $80 per gallon. Valspar is an industry-leading paint and coatings company that first opened its doors in 1806. They are a part of the Sherwin Williams Company. They offer a variety of exterior paints that provide maximum weather protection and durability. Their exterior paints come in a variety of sheens, including flat, satin, and semi-gloss. It is recommended to use two coats of this paint on your door for best results. Any less will leave you with an uneven coat, and any more will ruin the surface of your door.
PPG Front Door Paint
A gallon of PPG exterior paint costs between $35 and $78. PPG is a global paint and coatings manufacturer. They offer various top-quality paints that can be used for a wide range of exterior projects regardless of what climate you live in. PPG offers custom paint colors to match any aesthetic. Their paints are durable and versatile and can withstand regular wear and tear from the elements, so they are a great choice for homeowners all across the country.
Sherwin Williams Exterior Door Paint
Sherwin Williams exterior paint cost ranges between $42 and $115 per gallon. The Sherwin Williams Company was founded in 1866 and is now a global leader in the paint and coatings business. As a part of their product line, they offer a wide range of exterior paints. Their low-temp formulas are easy to apply and last a long while through hot summers and cold winters. Sherwin Williams paints are on the more expensive side, but they are highly durable and flexible, making them a great choice.
Labor Cost to Paint an Exterior Door
Hiring a painter to take care of your exterior door project is the best way to ensure the job gets done correctly, which means you don’t have to stress, and you can enjoy long-lasting results. Painters set their rates in multiple ways, including per sq.ft. and per hour. On average, most painting contractors charge between $1.50 and $4 per sq.ft., between $25 and $100 per hour, or between $50 and $200 per door. For each project, your painting team will wash, prime, and paint your door. The entire process will typically take from three to five hours.
| Type of Labor Cost | Rates |
|---|
| Per Square Foot | $1.50 - $4 |
| Per Hour | $25 - $100 |
| Set Rate | $50 - $200 |
What Color Should I Paint My Front Door?
There are plenty of different colors considerations to make when painting your door, depending on your preferred aesthetic. Your home’s front door is one of the first things that guests notice when they visit and can also catch the eye of potential buyers. It makes a huge statement about your house and is often the focal point of your exterior. So, it is important to give it some consideration when it comes to color. You also want to be sure it is a color that complements your home’s exterior paint. Current trends for 2022 show the overwhelming popularity of black doors with over 50% of front doors painted this color. Black is the perfect option against trending exterior colors like white and off-white. It also draws the eye on brighter colored exteriors.
Another popular trend for the upcoming year is keeping a natural wood door, which may be the best option when keeping a natural wood look with your exterior. Yet, homeowners looking to add a little more fun and color to their exterior may find trendy blues, greens, and even yellow the best option.
Cost to Repaint a Front Door
If you are looking for a change of style, consider repainting your front door. If you use a primer, you will be able to paint over the door. However, if your door is already a very dark color, your painter may want to remove the old paint before repainting the door. Otherwise, it is a good idea to use a white primer before painting. The prep work for repainting your door is similar to a new paint job. However, with painting a new door, priming isn’t exactly necessary, whereas you will definitely need to prime when you repaint. Most primers cost between $15 and $80.
Cost to Refinish a Front Door
Typically, it costs between $170 and $375 to refinish a door. This process should be done once every three to five years. An exterior door sees a lot of wear and tear from the elements throughout the year. With the effects of the sun, wind, and rain, it’s easy for your door to deteriorate. When it comes to refinishing, it is best to remove the door off the hinges. This makes it easier to sand and refinish the door. Refinishing your door enhances your home’s curb appeal and the overall durability of your door.
Cost to Stain a Front Door
If you have a wood door, you may consider staining it. Staining is quicker than painting because there is no need for a primer, and you usually need one coat. This process generally costs between $80 and $200 for both labor and materials. Costs vary depending on if your door needs any repairs or if you need to remove the old varnish before applying the new ones.
The best choice for an exterior door is an oil-based outdoor varnish because it withstands exposure to water and the elements. While they require more maintenance than water-based options, they are also more durable.
Cost to Paint Exterior French Doors
Exterior doors come in all shapes and sizes. The amount of paint you need depends on which type of door you have. The type of door impacts the complexity of the project, which determines the overall cost. The cost to paint French exterior doors ranges from $500 to $1,500 because they are larger and require extensive preparation before your contractor begins painting. It also takes longer since the painters will have to work around the glass windows. Your painter will spend a lot of time taping off the windows and painting any intricate designs.
As a general rule of thumb, the more windows your door has, the longer the job will be. It may take more than eight hours to paint a French door versus the normal three to five to paint a regular entry door. The other option is for your contractor to spray paint the door with an HVLP sprayer. This makes the job a bit faster, but the window taping process is still time-consuming.
Exterior Door Paint Prep Work
Before your painters begin painting the door, you have to decide if you want to take it off the hinges 4 or paint it in place. If you have a storm door 5 or screen door, it may be easier to remove the door. Plus, you don’t have to worry about bugs or other debris floating into your home during the job.
The first step is to clean your door thoroughly with warm water and a rag. The last thing you need is dirt streaks or dust particles making your layer of paint uneven. The hired professionals may sand the door down or fix any damages to make sure it is in top shape. Next, your painter will add a layer of primer. This is especially important if you're changing the color of your door. After they apply the primer with a roller and it completely dries, your painting contractor will go over all the trim work and then paint the door with either a foam roller or paint brush.
How Much Paint for a Front Door?
To know how much paint you need to paint your front door, you need to know how big your door is and how many coats of paint you’ll need to cover it. The average front door, which is about 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall, requires approximately one quart of paint. A quart of paint costs between $9 and $25. Keep in mind you will need to use about a quart of primer, ranging in cost from $8 to $15.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Cost to Paint Shutters
It costs between $40 and $70 to paint each shutter around your home. Several factors impact the cost, including the style, size, and state of your existing shutters. The type of shutters you have is also important in terms of the overall cost. Some common materials include PVC, vinyl, synthetic foam, wood, and aluminum.
Cost to Paint the Exterior Door and Trim
It costs between $1 and $4 per linear foot to paint the trim around your exterior door and between $1.50 and $4 per sq.ft. to paint the door itself. For example, if you have a door that is 8’0” x 3’6” inches with approximately 8 feet of trim, you can expect to pay between $160 and $300 to paint both the door and the trim. When it comes to painting your front door, you can use a contrasting color for the trim. This makes your door stand out against the rest of your exterior and makes it a strong focal point for your curb appeal.
Cost to Paint a Front Door with Sidelights
The average cost to paint your front door and sidelights costs between $150 and $300. The size and layout of your home impact the way you paint your sidelights. For bigger homes with a large entryway, you should paint the door and sidelights the same color. If your house is on the smaller side, consider painting your sidelights the same color as the trim.
Painting Siding
The cost to paint exterior house siding costs between $2,500 and $7,000. Many opt to paint their exterior house siding when they have their exterior doors painted. Often, a painter offers a reduced rate for multiple painting tasks. Also, as the years pass, the siding’s color might fade. Painting the siding and doors at the same time improves the home’s exterior appearance significantly.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits and licensing. Most paint jobs do not require a permit, but it is always a good idea to check. When you work with a hired professional, they will figure out if you need a permit.
- DIY. You can paint your front door by yourself, but it’s always better to have a professional on your side. If you are planning to do the job by yourself, be sure to clean your door thoroughly before you start priming and painting.
- HOA guidelines. If you are a part of a valid Homeowners Association, be sure to check their rules and regulations for exterior paint jobs. It is very common for restrictions to be in place about what color you can paint your doors.
- Lead paint. Lead paint has been banned in the United States since before 1978, but it is still present in many homes. Removing lead paint is a delicate job and should always be left to a professional. Conversely, you can paint over lead paint in a process called encapsulation. This involves following specific steps and safety protocols.
- Home value. Painting is one of the easiest ways to increase your home’s resale value. Black or charcoal gray are two of the best colors to paint your front door. These colors give off a vibe of being modern, safe, and secure.
- Combining paint jobs. Painting your front or back exterior door is a relatively small job for a painter. You might score greater savings if you find additional painting jobs for the painter, like having the siding or trim touched up or repainted.
- Weather conditions. Try, if possible, to choose a good day for painting. You'll need to keep your door open for a few hours, so it's best if it's not too cold or too hot.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to strip and refinish a front door?
Factoring in both labor and materials, the average cost to refinish a door ranges from $170 and $375, depending on the material used. For example, if you have a wood door, prices will be much higher, ranging from $450 to $1,250 per door.
- Can you paint a metal door?
Yes, you can paint a metal door. It is best to use exterior paints that are resistant to fading and rust. Oil-based paints are your best option, but water-based paints will work, too.
- How much does it cost to paint a door?
The average cost to paint an exterior door ranges from $100 to $350, depending on the current state of the door, the color you want to paint it, and the type of paint you choose.
- How much does it cost to paint trim and doors?
When painting exterior doors, you need to think about the trim, too. The cost to paint the trim ranges from $1 to $4 per linear foot. The cost to paint an exterior door itself ranges from $1.50 to $4 per sq.ft. The type of paint used and the current state of your door and trim impact overall costs for your project.
- Do I need to prime my front door before painting?
Yes, before you begin painting, you will want to use a quality primer. This is more important if you are changing your door’s color. However, it helps the paint bind to the surface either way. It is also crucial to thoroughly clean the surface with a wet rag before you begin painting.
- How much does it cost to paint a front door and frame?
Typically, the cost of painting an exterior door and its frame ranges from $150 to $400. A few different factors impact the overall cost of the project, including the size, shape, and material of the door. An older door usually costs more to paint due to the extra prep work needed before the painting begins.
- Can you use interior paint on an exterior door?
Yes and no. It is fine to use interior paint on the inside of an exterior door, but you are better off using exterior paint for the outside. This is because interior paint is naturally more porous, and it doesn’t have the resin needed to bind to outdoor surfaces properly. It is not made to resist heavy rains, harmful UV rays, mildew growth, or temperature fluctuations.
Updated:
