The Easiest Way to Update a Flat Panel Door

Sabrina
by Sabrina
3 Materials
$25
1 Day
Easy

Doors play a more important role in decor than you might think. Just as updating your front entry door can make a substantial impact on your home’s curb appeal, updating your interior doors can make you feel like you’ve done a remodel.

To get the look of costly paneled doors (without the expense), a little moulding, paint and new hardware can go a long way.

1.  You want to choose a molding that accents but doesn’t overwhelm your interior doors. Measure and calculate the size of the frames that you need to make.

2. Cut your moulding pieces down to size for each door with a mitre saw and lay out your trim on the doors. Before you secure it in place, measure for even placement.

*TIP* Use a nail gun to secure the moulding instead of wood glue. You eliminate any wait time. 

3.  Fill in the nail holes and any cracks in the corner with wood putty. Sand it all down once it dries.

4.  There is no easier or more impactful way to update your doors than painting them. To begin, use a primer to prep—a good primer is key to a great paint job. I used Para Paints Colour Boost Primer.

5. To get the ultimate surface protection and durability, it’s important to use paint specifically made for your surface. My go-to paint for furniture and doors is  Para Paints Melamine, Cabinet and Furniture Paint (shown here in the colour Brushed Nickel, P5244-62). I apply my last two thin layers of paint with a high-density paint roller.

Suggested materials:
  • Paint   (Para Paint)
  • Moulding   (Hardware store)
  • Cabinet Pulls   (Hardware Store)
Sabrina
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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