First impressions start at the front door. A professionally painted exterior door not only enhances curb appeal but also protects the substrate and signals quality craftsmanship. For construction professionals, painting exterior doors is a high-ROI task that can be efficiently completed with the right tools and techniques. Accurate cost estimation is crucial, with typical costs ranging from $120–$400 per door, depending on materials and labor.
• Steel doors require corrosion-resistant primers.
• Fiberglass doors accept most acrylic paints with minimal prep.
• Solid wood needs breathable, UV-stabilized coatings.
• Factory-finished doors may need only light sanding.
• Weathered doors require extensive prep, doubling labor hours.
Regional climate affects primer selection and re-coat intervals. Accurate estimates adjust for local conditions, ensuring material efficiency.
• Professional crews using airless sprayers complete jobs faster.
• Accurate labor estimates prevent margin erosion.
1. Remove or mask hardware and glass inserts.
2. Clean with TSP substitute, rinse, and dry.
3. Sand with 180-grit for adhesion; wipe with tack cloth.
4. Fill dents with exterior wood filler; sand flush.
5. Prime bare spots with high-build primer.
1. Lay door flat to reduce drips.
2. Cut in panel recesses with a sash brush.
3. Roll flat areas with a microfiber roller.
4. Back-brush for uniform coverage.
5. Allow specified dry time; apply second coat for durability.
• Cure door in a dust-free space for 24 hours.
• Reinstall hardware; adjust hinges if needed.
• Seal bottom edge to prevent moisture intrusion.
• Materials: $30–$80 depending on products used.
• Labor: 3-6 crew hours, averaging $25–$100 per hour.
• Equipment: Approximately $15–$60 per gallon per door.
Total installed cost typically ranges from $120–$400.
• Skipping primer on exposed doors can lead to issues.
• Painting in direct sunlight causes lap marks.
• Using interior-grade paint on exterior surfaces.
For complex jobs, enlist a professional. Accurate estimates and streamlined processes ensure quality results.
Painting the exterior door is often a final task. Proper scheduling ensures timely completion without delays.
• Choose semi-gloss or satin for easy cleaning.
• Tint primer for better topcoat coverage.
• Paint all edges to prevent moisture issues.
• Keep a touch-up jar on site for future needs.
A Nashville remodeler used expert techniques to refresh a bungalow's doors. The goal was a same-day turnaround with flawless results.
1. Quick scope capture ensured accurate estimates.
2. Instant costing provided a $370 proposal.
3. Materials were synced and ready for use.
4. Weather alerts adjusted the schedule for optimal results.
5. Automated close-out ensured seamless project completion.
• Two doors painted in 6.2 labor hours.
• No change orders or budget issues.
• Positive feedback from realtors and crew.
• Use voice capture to eliminate scope gaps.
• Automated alerts maintain quality.
• Deliver photo-verified close-out packages.
