Interior Painting
Choosing a Finish for Interior Trim and Doors
Choose trim and door coatings based on handling, cleaning, blocking, existing finish, sheen, application, and cure time.
Consider how the surface is handled
Doors, frames, railings, and baseboards receive more contact than most walls. Cleaning needs and abrasion should influence product selection.
Inspect the existing finish
Glossy, oil-based, damaged, or unknown coatings may need cleaning, abrasion, testing, or a bonding primer. Painting over contamination or loose coating risks poor adhesion.
Balance sheen and surface condition
Higher sheen can create crisp definition and easier cleaning but may reveal dents, brush marks, or uneven repairs. Samples help evaluate appearance beside the wall color.
Plan around cure and blocking
A door can be dry to the touch before it is ready for firm closing, cleaning, or hardware contact. Follow product instructions and handle freshly coated surfaces gently.