While you can use paint classified as a topcoat on door frames, the suitability of just "normal paint" depends on its type and whether the proper preparatory layers are used, especially for new frames.
According to painting guidelines, for door frames, the primary paint required is a topcoat. This layer provides the final colour and finish.
What Kind of Paint Do You Use on a Door Frame?
Based on expert recommendations:
- Topcoat: This is the main visible layer. The reference states, "For door frames, the main kind of paint that you'll need is a topcoat."
- Primer & Undercoat: If you are painting a brand new door frame, additional steps are necessary. The reference notes, "If you're painting a brand new door frame, you'll require a primer, undercoat and a top coat." This multi-layer approach ensures proper adhesion, coverage, and durability on bare wood.
Painting Process: New vs. Existing Frames
The steps differ depending on whether the door frame is new or already painted:
| Frame Condition | Recommended Paint Layers | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| New Frame | Primer, Undercoat, Topcoat | Seal, Adhere, Provide Base, Finish |
| Existing Frame | (Prep/Repair as needed), Topcoat | Cover, Finish (Primer/Undercoat if bare spots) |
- New Door Frames: Starting from bare wood or MDF requires a primer to seal the surface and help the paint adhere. An undercoat provides a smooth base and helps achieve better colour coverage with the topcoat. Finally, the topcoat provides the durable finish.
- Existing Door Frames: If the frame is already painted and in good condition, you may only need to clean, lightly sand, and apply a new topcoat. However, if there are bare patches, repairs, or a significant colour change, using a primer or undercoat on those areas might be necessary before the topcoat.
Practical Insights
Using "normal paint" without considering the type of paint (like a durable topcoat designed for trim) or applying the necessary primer and undercoat layers (especially on new frames) might lead to issues such as poor adhesion, uneven finish, or lack of durability in a high-traffic area like a door frame. Therefore, while a topcoat paint is used, it's part of a recommended system for best results.
