Painting a door can seem like a simple task, but it’s important to estimate the right amount of paint so you don’t end up with too little or too much. When calculating how much paint you need for a door, there are a few key factors to consider:
What type of paint should I use?
The type of paint you choose will impact coverage and durability. Here are some common options:
- Latex paint – Water-based and dries quickly. Good for indoor and outdoor use. Requires 2-3 coats for full coverage.
- Oil-based paint – Very durable and glossy finish. Requires up to 2 coats. Can yellow over time.
- Primer – Helps paint adhere to the surface. Use oil-based primer for bare wood.
- Clear finishes – Protective coatings like polyurethane that don’t add color.
For most interior and exterior doors, latex or oil-based paints are good choices. Primer might be needed if changing colors or painting bare wood.
How much surface area needs to be painted?
To calculate the amount of paint, you first need to determine the total surface area of the door. Consider:
- Size of the door – Measure width and height in inches.
- Single or double door – Double doors have twice the area.
- Both front and back sides – Include both faces of the door.
- Edge banding – Small strips along the door’s edges.
For example, a standard interior door is 30 inches wide x 80 inches high. The total surface area of the front and back sides would be:
(30 x 80) x 2 sides = 4800 square inches
Any edge banding would add a bit more area. Know the measurements before buying paint.
What is the square footage coverage of the paint?
The amount of paint needed depends on the paint’s spreading rate or coverage. This info is on the can’s label.
Typical coverage per gallon:
- Latex paint – 350-400 sq ft
- Oil-based paint – 450-500 sq ft
- Primers – 300-400 sq ft
Higher quality or thicker paints provide more coverage. If using multiple coats, divide the coverage.
For example, if the paint covers 400 sq ft/gallon with 2 coats, expect it to cover 200 sq ft/gallon.
How much paint will I need?
Using the surface area and the paint’s coverage rate, you can estimate the amount of paint needed.
For a standard interior door with 4800 sq inches of area:
- Latex paint (350 sq ft/gal) – ~0.2 gallons
- Oil-based paint (500 sq ft/gal) – ~0.15 gallons
So you’d need around 1 quart (0.25 gallons) of either latex or oil-based paint for a regular interior door with two coats. For small doors, you may need less.
Here is a table summarizing the amount of paint needed based on door size:
| Door Size | Surface Area | Latex Paint Needed (gal) | Oil-based Paint Needed (gal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36″ x 80″ | 5760 in^2 | 0.25 | 0.18 |
| 32″ x 80″ | 5120 in^2 | 0.22 | 0.16 |
| 30″ x 80″ | 4800 in^2 | 0.2 | 0.15 |
| 28″ x 80″ | 4480 in^2 | 0.19 | 0.14 |
| 24″ x 80″ | 3840 in^2 | 0.16 | 0.12 |
As shown, a little bit of extra paint is ideal to ensure full coverage. Primers often come in quart sizes.
Tips for estimating paint
Here are some additional tips for successfully estimating paint needs:
- Round up if between sizes – Buy the larger amount
- Factor in texture – Textured surfaces require more paint
- Consider waste – Have 10-15% extra paint on hand
- Prime first if needed – Primers improve coverage
- Use a paint calculator – Online tools help estimate needs
And be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. With some simple calculations and these tips, you’ll buy the right amount of paint for a smooth application.
Conclusion
Figuring out how much paint you need for a door requires carefully measuring the surface area and understanding the paint’s coverage rate. Most standard interior doors will require about 1 quart of latex or oil-based paint to cover both sides with two coats. Smaller doors may need a bit less. Provide 10-15% extra paint to ensure you don’t run out. And don’t forget primer if painting over an unfinished or previously painted surface. With the right amount of high quality paint and proper prep, you’ll achieve a durable and beautiful finish on your painted door.