6 Ways to Update Old Interior Doors (2024)

6 Ways to Update Old Interior Doors (1)

Interior doors get a lot of use in our daily lives. And that everyday wear and tear can start to make them look faded and old. So why not refresh them and give them a bit of character? Here are six easy ways you can spruce up those old interior doors and turn them into a brand new, modern interior door!

Change the Door Hardware

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One quick way to update doors in your house is toswitch out your door hardware. You could try something more decorative or a new color. You could even just paint your current hardware. Just make sure to use spray paint and primer that’s specifically meant for metal. But whether you’re switching out your doorknob, adding new hinges, or even painting your old hardware, you’ll be surprised how much this easy DIY interior door makeover can modernize the look of your doors.

Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

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Sometimes all your interior doors need is a new coat of paint! If your doors are beginning to look a little shabby, freshening up their current color will liven them up. Or for a totally different look, try out a new color. No matter what color you choose, repainting is a super-easy and cheap way to update your doors - and your whole space!

Use Molding to Create a Designer Look

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Try adding some molding to your flat doors. It’s easy to do and it’s a great way to modernize those old doors and make them look more expensive. Not to mention that it’s budget-friendly too! Simply attach molding or trim to your door with wood glue and nails. Then repaint it and you’ll have a revamped modern interior door! This subtle redo can add a lot to a room with just a little time and effort.

Create Panel Doors with Plywood

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Change your plain interior doors into panel doors by adding plywood. It’s pretty simple to do and it adds some dimension to your doors. Use a nailer to attach plywood to the door. Then you can stain the wood or paint it for a custom look. This will give your doors a total makeover without breaking the bank!

Add Accents with Stencils

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If you find your old interior doors a bit boring, try dressing them up with stencils. First, find a stencil in a pattern you like and tape it to the door. Then use a paintbrush or sponge to gently dab paint over the stencil. Remove the stencil when you’re done and you are good to go! You can use this method to add small accents to your doors or an entire pattern. Stenciling your doors can add a unique touch to your home and the possibilities are endless.

Apply Wallpaper

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Wallpaper can be too busy for an entire room, but it’s perfect for making a statement on a smaller section. Try applying wallpaper to your interior doors to give them an update. You only need a few tools and supplies for this project and it’s fairly simple. All you have to do is measure and cut the wallpaper, prep and prime your door, and then apply the wallpaper. With so many wallpaper designs to choose from, it will be easy toupdate your interior door and create a distinctive look in any room in your home.

Updating Interior Doors with Do it Best

Buying new doors can be super expensive. By updating your current doors instead, you can save a lot of money and get the customized design you want. Try out just one of these techniques to add some flair or combine them to give your interior doors a whole new look!

While do-it-yourself projects can be fun and fulfilling, there is always a potential for personal injury or property damage. We strongly suggest that any project beyond your abilities be left to licensed professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk, and we assume no responsibility or liability for the contents of this article.

6 Ways to Update Old Interior Doors (2024)

FAQs

How can I make my interior doors more modern? ›

Use Molding to Create a Designer Look

It's easy to do and it's a great way to modernize those old doors and make them look more expensive. Not to mention that it's budget-friendly too! Simply attach molding or trim to your door with wood glue and nails. Then repaint it and you'll have a revamped modern interior door!

What is the latest trend for interior doors? ›

Minimalism is a dominant trend in interior design for 2024. This style emphasizes clean lines, simple geometric shapes, and uncluttered designs. Minimalist interiors offer a sense of tranquility and organization in today's fast-paced world. Minimalist doors are timeless, versatile, and promote a calm atmosphere.

How to make old door frames look new? ›

To begin, use a brush or roller to apply a layer of primer to the door frame. This will help the paint to adhere to the door frame more effectively. Allow the primer to dry for the amount of time indicated on the can. Once it's dry, you can start painting the door frame with your chosen paint color.

Is it worth upgrading internal doors? ›

Overall, an interior door upgrade can significantly enhance the functionality, appearance and value of your space.

What style of interior door is modern? ›

Modern Style Interior Doors: Barn, Farmhouse, French, & Sliding Doors.

How do you decorate a useless door? ›

Artwork/ Painting

A thoughtful piece of art acts as a focal point and diverts attention from the underutilized space. Choose an artwork that is of the size of the doorway or slightly larger; this will help you coherently blend into the wall.

Can you put a new interior door in an old frame? ›

Hanging a new door in an existing door frame takes time and patience, but is a DIY project that can yield very pleasing results. Just keep an eye on the orientation of your door as you're working on it.

What is the most timeless style of interior doors? ›

Shaker doors, with their clean lines and simple charm, perfectly capture the saying "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." They have survived the test of time, offering a stylish and practical option for homeowners looking for a timeless interior door.

How can I make my old door look better? ›

If there are any major dents I like to use Bondo (for big dents ) or my favorite wood filler (for smaller dents) — fill them with wood filler and allow it to dry. Once dry, you can sand any rough areas of the door with medium-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface if your door doesn't have lead paint.

How to refinish interior doors? ›

How to Refinish an Interior Wood Door in 10 Easy Steps
  1. What you'll need: Raised workbench. ...
  2. #1. Take the door out of its frame. ...
  3. #2. Carefully remove hardware. ...
  4. #3. Strip paint or stain. ...
  5. #4. Lightly and evenly sand flat areas. ...
  6. #5. Sand grooves by hand. ...
  7. #6. Choose and apply a finish. ...
  8. #7. Seal the finish.

What makes a door modern? ›

Modern doors are often associated with contemporary, mid-century modern, and industrial styles. They typically feature clean lines and geometric shapes, and a lack of ornamentation, and often use new materials or technology to improve functionality and durability.

How much does it cost to upgrade interior doors? ›

Normal range: $360 - $1,212. The average cost to install an interior door is $786 , or between $150 and $2,500 depending on the type of door, style, material, and hardware.

Should all interior doors be the same style? ›

In fact, using a perfect match is often considered too redundant. However, the interior doors should coordinate with each room and the overall home style… all of the interior doors should agree with each other in the same way, even if they are different colours”.

How do you refurbish an internal door? ›

Freshen Up Your Internal Door Like A Pro: The Complete Guide
  1. Gather all of your materials in one place. It is always important to have all of your materials ready to ensure efficiency in your work. ...
  2. Remove all hardware from the door. ...
  3. Clean the door. ...
  4. Prepare your door. ...
  5. Prime your door. ...
  6. Paint your door.
Jun 9, 2021

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