Is it cheaper to paint an exterior door or replace it?

Painting an exterior door is generally cheaper, costing $100 to $300 (including paint, supplies, and labor), compared to buying a new door, which ranges from $500 to $2,000 (including installation). Painting is ideal for doors in good condition, while replacement is better for severely damaged or outdated doors.

What are the costs involved in painting an exterior door?

Painting an exterior door costs $100 to $300 total. This includes high-quality paint and primer ($30–$80), supplies like brushes, rollers, sandpaper, and tape ($20–$50), cleaning materials like degreaser ($5–$15), and professional labor if hired ($50–$150). DIY painting reduces costs to $50–$150, making it a budget-friendly option for home painting.

What are the costs associated with buying a new exterior door?

Buying a new exterior door costs $500 to $2,000, including the door and installation. Basic steel doors cost $200–$500, fiberglass doors $400–$1,000, and premium wood doors $800–$2,000. Installation fees range from $300 to $1,000, with additional features like hardware or weatherstripping adding $50–$500.

What factors should I consider when deciding to paint or replace an exterior door?

Consider the door’s condition (minor wear favors painting, severe damage requires replacement), material type (steel/fiberglass are easier to paint, wood may need frequent maintenance), aesthetic goals (painting for color customization, replacement for modern designs), budget (painting is cheaper upfront), and home value (new doors boost resale appeal). These factors guide a cost-effective decision for exterior door painting or replacement.

How can I save money and achieve a professional finish when painting an exterior door?

Save money by painting the door yourself to avoid $50–$150 labor costs, reusing existing supplies, choosing mid-range paint ($20–$40 per quart), prepping thoroughly to prevent repainting, and buying paint in bulk for multiple doors. For a professional finish, clean the door, sand with 220–400 grit sandpaper, apply a suitable primer, use quality brushes/rollers, and apply multiple thin coats of exterior door paint, ensuring a durable, attractive result.

Is painting an exterior door cheaper than buying a new one? Compare costs, $100 to $300 for painting vs. $500 to $2000 for a new door, with tips to save money.

Is it cheaper to paint an exterior door or buy a new one?

July 3, 2025 PAINTBRUSH GUARD

Deciding whether to paint an exterior door or buy a new one depends on cost, condition, and desired outcome.

Painting an exterior door typically costs from $100 to $300, including paint, supplies, and labor, while a new door ranges from $500 to $2000, including installation.

Painting is usually cheaper for doors in good condition, but severe damage or outdated designs may justify replacement.

This article explores the cost comparison, factors influencing the decision, and tips for painting an exterior door to achieve a durable, attractive finish, helping you make an informed choice.

Check out the article on exterior door painting: Prep for a stunning finish

Why the cost of painting versus replacing an exterior door matters
Cost breakdown of painting an exterior door
Cost breakdown of buying a new exterior door
Factors to consider when choosing to paint or replace
Tips for painting an exterior door to save money
Application tips for a professional exterior door paint finish
Conclusion

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The cost of painting versus replacing an exterior door

Choosing between painting an exterior door or buying a new one impacts your budget, home aesthetics, and maintenance efforts.

Check out this article: Is it better to paint a door standing up or laying down?

Exterior doors, such as front, patio or side doors, are focal points that enhance curb appeal and protect against weather.

Painting an exterior door can refresh its look at a lower cost, while replacing it may offer better durability or style but at a higher price.

Moreover, understanding the costs and benefits helps homeowners balance short-term savings with long-term value.

By comparing painting an exterior door versus replacement, you can make a cost-effective decision that aligns with your home’s needs and aesthetic goals.

Cost breakdown of painting an exterior door

Painting an exterior door is often the more affordable option, especially for doors in good structural condition. Costs vary based on materials, labor, and whether you DIY or hire a professional.

Here’s a breakdown:

Paint and Primer: High-quality exterior door paint and primer cost from $30 to $80 for a single door, depending on brand and finish (e.g., semi-gloss).
Supplies: Brushes, rollers, sandpaper, painter’s tape, and drop cloths total from $20 to $50 for a DIY project.
Cleaning Materials: Degreaser or soapy water for surface prep costs from $5 to $15.
Labor (if hired): Professional painters charge from $50 to $150 per door, including prep and painting, depending on location and complexity.
Total DIY Cost: Approximately from $50 to $150; professional cost ranges from $100 to $300.

Painting an exterior door saves money if the door is structurally sound, offering a fresh look without the expense of replacement.

Cost breakdown of buying a new exterior door

Buying and installing a new exterior door is significantly more expensive but may be necessary for damaged or outdated doors. Costs depend on material, style, and installation.

Here’s a breakdown:

Basic Steel Door: Entry-level steel doors cost from $200 to $500, offering durability and security.
Fiberglass Door: Mid-range fiberglass doors, which resist weathering, range from $400 to $1000.
Wood Door: Premium wood doors, ideal for aesthetics, cost from $800 to $2000 or more.
Installation: Professional installation fees range from $300 to $1000, depending on labor rates and door complexity.
Additional Features: Hardware, weatherstripping, or custom features add from $50 to $500.

Total costs for a new exterior door typically range from $500 to $2000, making it a larger investment than painting but potentially worthwhile for long-term benefits.

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Factors to consider when choosing to paint or replace

Several factors influence whether to paint an exterior door or buy a new one, beyond just cost. Evaluating these helps you make the best choice for your home and budget.

Consider the following:

Door Condition: If the door has minor wear, like fading or scratches, painting an exterior door is sufficient; severe damage, like cracks or warping, may require replacement.
Material Type: Steel or fiberglass doors are easier to paint, while wood doors may need frequent repainting or replacement if damaged.
Aesthetic Goals: Painting allows color customization, but a new door offers modern designs or improved insulation.
Budget Constraints: Painting an exterior door is cheaper upfront, while a new door may save maintenance costs long-term.
Home Value: A new door can boost curb appeal and resale value, especially for outdated or damaged entrances.

By weighing these factors, you can decide if painting an exterior door or replacing it better suits your needs and financial goals.

Tips for painting an exterior door to save money

Painting an exterior door yourself is a cost-effective way to refresh its look without the expense of hiring a professional or replacing the door.

These tips help you save money while achieving a quality finish:

DIY Painting: Skip professional labor costs by painting the door yourself, saving from $50 to $150 per door.
Reuse Supplies: Use existing brushes, rollers, or drop cloths from past projects to reduce supply costs.
Choose Affordable Paint: Opt for mid-range exterior door paint (from $20 to $40 per quart) that still offers durability and weather resistance.
Prep Thoroughly: Clean and sand the door properly to avoid repainting due to peeling or poor adhesion.
Buy in Bulk: If painting multiple doors, purchase paint and primer in larger quantities for discounts.

These tips make painting an exterior door a budget-friendly option, delivering a fresh look at a fraction of replacement costs.

Application tips for a professional exterior door paint finish

Proper application techniques ensure painting an exterior door results in a durable, attractive finish that rivals a new door’s appearance.

Check out this article: What are the three colors not to paint your front door?

Follow these steps for a professional outcome:

Clean the Surface: Wash the door with soapy water or degreaser to remove dirt or grease, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Sand for Adhesion: Lightly sand with fine-grit (from 220 to 400) sandpaper to smooth imperfections and improve paint grip, especially on glossy surfaces.
Apply Primer if Needed: Use a bonding or rust-inhibiting primer for bare wood or metal doors to enhance adhesion and durability.
Use Quality Tools: Apply paint with a high-quality brush or foam roller for a smooth, even finish, avoiding streaks or drips.
Apply Thin Coats: Use multiple thin layers of exterior door paint, allowing each coat to dry fully for a flawless, long-lasting result.

These application tips ensure painting an exterior door delivers a professional, cost-effective finish that enhances your home’s curb appeal.

Conclusion

Deciding whether painting an exterior door or buying a new one is cheaper depends on the door’s condition, your budget, and aesthetic goals.

Painting an exterior door costs from $100 to $300, making it a budget-friendly choice for doors in good shape, while a new door ranges from $500 to $2000, offering long-term benefits for damaged or outdated entrances.

For instance, painting is ideal for minor wear, while replacement suits severe damage or style upgrades.

Meanwhile, proper preparation and application ensure a durable paint finish. By weighing costs and following these tips for painting an exterior door, you can achieve a vibrant, cost-effective entrance that enhances your home for years.

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