How do I update this door?
+3
Want to update cabinet look. get rid of slates. Shld I just put a piece of underlayment over the entire door? Then trim?
We had the same thing-louvered doors-on our bottom kitchen cupboards and like you, hated them.
I took out the slats and replaced with homemade curtains secured from side to side with dowels on the top and bottom inserted where the slates connected into the frame of the louvered door, the fabric was gathered a bit just like a fitted window curtain. This may work for you, can be easily taken out and washed. My next idea in my doors is to remove the curtains and replace with a cut to fit plastic panel which can have wall paper, a stained glass effect, peel and stick tiles, or the popular tin panels.
Lots of options for your creativity to shine!
Is this a pantry or does it hide a heating system that needs air flow? I would think about removing the louver section (probably molding to hold it in) and then inserting a frosted glass panel or a plywood or MDF panel In place. Covering the door as you asked may cause problems with the door knob and hinges.
I agree with Ken if this is a door to a heating system. Remove either the slats or bottom portion. What I used was the decorative panel that is used for radiators. It allowed the air to flow through.
If the slats don't serve a purpose, other than be dust catchers, you can remove them and replace with several different materials cut to fit. You might try searching for a white or black board that will fit into the opening and make a functional message center. Or use a cork board to replace the slats and use push pins for message center, too. Lots of possibilities to be able to make the door double duty. Even add a metal panel and use magnets for attaching various objects/papers, etc. Go for it! Think outside the slats! :)
I would prob take the trim off, that should make the slats come out very easily.. i would measure and cut out a sturdy piece of wood or MDF and chalk paint it to make a chalk board for command central/grocery lists etc.
How we updated our louvered doors for under $100
https://kaitlinmadden.com/how-we-updated-our-louvered-doors-for-under-100/