Doors, Windows and Trims Project
Refreshing the doors, windows and trim in a room can give it a new lease on life. In high traffic areas especially, a repaint can really transform the room, giving it a clean, crisp finish. Enamel paint is the best choice, as it breathes new life into old doors, windows and trim by giving it a durable, long lasting finish.
Follow 4 easy steps to get you started.
Choosing the gloss level
When deciding on what paint to use, we recommend Dulux Aquanamel®. Not only does it have a smooth flow technology for a smooth finish, it also is a water-based paint for an easier clean up versus oil-based enamel paints. When you are choosing this paint it is important to consider the type of finish you want:
Gloss: Achieves a highly reflective finish that gives a much more intense look. It is recommended for high traffic areas as it is very durable and easy to wash. Typically a more traditional finish.
Semi gloss: Provides a glossy finish, but not as brilliant as a gloss. It offers good stain resistance, is durable and is easy to wash. Semi gloss is more popular in contemporary styled rooms and homes.
Here's what you'll need to get started:
Tools & Accessories
How to paint perfect windows and trim
Step-by-step
IMPORTANT:
With windows, it is recommended to paint the inner window sections first then move to the outer trim. Remember, always keep windows open as they dry and ensure to move them constantly to prevent them from sticking together.
Preparation
First step is to follow the preparation steps in the prep guide.
Taping
Begin by taping around the window or trim with painter’s tape.
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Cutting in
Cut in around the edges of the wall with a brush — these are the areas the roller cannot easily reach. Maintain a wet-edge by cutting in larger areas in sections as you go. This will help to avoid ‘picture framing’ where unblended cut in areas remain obvious after rolling.
Apply paint
Apply paint to the trim using short, horizontal brush strokes. Repeat the motion for about a metre.
Smooth over
Smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes. Ensure not to add more paint to the brush when you do this. Don’t brush it too much – a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
Repeat
Repeat this process for the second coat. Allow to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat for a second coat.
Admire
Lastly, stand back and admire your handy work. Well done!
Explore our gallery
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Door
Wenderholm
The rich and decadent red of Wenderholm can be used for interior and exterior highlights, including a striking front door. It pairs well with warm whites such as Southern Alps and Cardrona Half.
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Doors, Walls & Trims
Southern Alps
Vivid White™ is a pure clean white that is perfect for creating a clean, contemporary look. It is the ultimate choice for modern interior walls and trims and is also ideal for exterior features such as fretwork and window frames. The crisp freshness of Vivid White™ will brighten any space and give it a luxe modern vibe.
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Door
Te Kūiti
Te Kūiti is a deep and dramatic pure black. It works well with a range of colours including whites, greys and neutrals. Try pairing it with crisp white Ōkārito for a classic 'black and white' look, or with subtle greys such as Manorburn and Tīrau.
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Trim
Ōpononi Quarter
Ōpononi Quarter is a popular soft warm white that works well as a main wall colour or on trims. This welcoming colour pairs beautifully with soft neutrals such as Tōrere Double, Sandrock Bluff or Ōpononi.
How to paint perfect doors
Step-by-step
Doors call out
For moulded doors, always paint the inner recess and moulding first, then move to the outside to finish. Remember to remove the washi tape while the door is still wet to ensure a clean line and easy removal.
Preparation
First step is to follow the preparation steps in the prep guide.
Removing
Remove the door from the frame and lay it on a flat surface. Remove all the hardware from the door, or tape it off with painter’s tape.
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Cutting in
Cut in around the edges of the wall with a brush — these are the areas the roller cannot easily reach. Maintain a wet-edge by cutting in larger areas in sections as you go. This will help to avoid ‘picture framing’ where unblended cut in areas remain obvious after rolling.
Rolling
Roll or brush on the inside of the door, with smooth vertical strokes.
Brushing
Once a section is applied, using a 75mm brush, lightly stroke down the door to create a smoothed finish. Don’t brush it too much – a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
Apply a second coat
Allow to dry, and lightly sand any imperfections, then apply a second coat.
Admire
Lastly, stand back and admire your handy work. Well done!
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Our friendly Customer Service team can help you with exactly what you need. Call 0800 800 424 and speak to one of our team members or submit an enquiry via our online form.
Available 7 days a week, start a chat with our team to discuss everything you need to gain colour confidence.
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