How to Repaint Door Casings

Remove the door by unscrewing the hinges that attach it to the casing.

Clean the casings using a household cleaner and a dry cloth. Remove as much dirt and grime as possible. Once the casings are clean, wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue left behind by the cleaner. Allow the casings to dry completely.

Apply paintable wood filler to any gouges using your finger to smooth it onto the casings. Once the filler has dried, lightly sand it with a fine-grit sandpaper until it is smooth.

Apply painter’s tape where the casing meets the wall. Firmly press the tape to the wall to ensure a tight seal. If you are confident in your ability to keep the paint from getting on the wall or if you plan on painting the wall after, you may choose to skip the tape application.

Apply a coat of interior paint in a semi-gloss finish using a high-quality angled paintbrush. Avoid visible brushstrokes by using a long, smooth brushstroke rather than repeatedly going over the same area. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.

Replace the hinges and door once the paint has dried for at least 24 hours or longer if conditions are cold or humid.