When remodeling your home, you may decide to remove an interior door permanently. Removing the door leaves behind unsightly gaps where the previous homeowner installed the door hinges and strike plate. While you could paint over these spaces, filling them in first for a smooth, continuous wall appears much more finished.
Patience is critical when filling your door hinge recesses. It may take several rounds of wood filler and sanding before the recesses blend seamlessly into the surrounding wall. However, the right materials and techniques can conceal evidence for a clean, simplified look. Here’s how to prep, fill, and paint your door hinges.
Prepare the Recess for Painting
When painting interior door hinges, adequate prep time is important. This is so, the filler can properly adhere for a cleaner finish.
Start by using a utility or putty knife to thoroughly scrape out all dirt, debris, and old paint from inside the recesses. Remove any loose material so the surface is clean. Next, lightly score the inside of each recess with sandpaper. Sanding roughens the smooth surface so the wood filler grips it better. Brush off all dust before moving to the next step.
Install a Backer Before Painting
Filling the empty hinge recesses with wood filler alone often leads to cracking and sinking when the filler dries. In my experience, using a backer material is the best solution for a smooth finish. I also recommend using a drop cloth to prevent paint drips on your floor during this DIY project.
Fill the void first with a solid backer material such as:
- A cut paint stir stick
- A trimmed popsicle stick
- A custom-cut shim
Secure the backer in the recess with wood glue until it’s flush with the wall, allowing the adhesive to dry completely. Remember, you only need a thin filler layer around it because the backer takes up some space. However, it’s vital that you take this step, as it prevents sinking when you paint the interior door hinges.
Apply Wood Filler for Painting
With the backer installed, fill the remaining recess space with wood filler or spackling compound. Use a putty knife to spread a smooth, thin layer overlapping the backer slightly. Press firmly to compact it and eliminate air pockets.
Leave it to dry for the recommended time, usually four to six hours, depending on temperature, humidity, and ingredients. Consult manufacturer instructions before applying for an exact dry time. Once dry, sand the filler flush with 100- to 120-grit sandpaper using consistent motion to prevent uneven spots in the future.
Finish Sanding and Paint Door Hinges
Study the sanded filler closely to spot imperfections. Then, use another thin application of filler to patch any visible cracks or low areas and sand again after drying. You may need two to three rounds of filling and sanding to make the recess contour match the wall perfectly. Take your time with this step to achieve the best results.
Complete a final sanding with 150- to 220-grit sandpaper for an ultra-smooth finish. The fine grit removes subtle scratches from previous sanding.
Wipe away all dust, then paint the sanded filler using a small brush and matching paint. Allow the paint to dry fully before adding extra coats as needed to conceal the seam. It’s best to wait 24 hours between coats, even though the paint may seem dry to the touch in just a few hours. Once painted, the former door hinge recess will blend seamlessly into the wall for a flush, simplified look.
Tips for DIY Painting of Door Hardware
From my years of experience completing home improvement projects, painting door hardware can be simplified by following these tips:
- Apply painter’s tape around the recess to prevent making a mess on surrounding surfaces when filling and painting. I strongly recommend this step as it has made all the difference in speeding up the cleaning process during my home improvement projects.
- When sanding filler, avoid bearing down heavily on edges to prevent uneven craters. Instead, maintain focused pressure in the center.
- For wood walls, pick wood filler that matches the species. Apply matching wood stain after sanding.
- Reapply wall texture spray before spray painting interior door hinges if needed to hide variations.
FAQs About Door Hinge Fill and Paint
What type of paint should I use?
Use interior latex paint in either a matte, eggshell, or satin finish. Double-check that it matches the existing wall color by performing a spot test first.
How long does it take for the paint to dry?
Most interior paints dry to the touch within one to two hours. Wait at least 24 hours between coats for full curing.
Should I prime before painting?
Priming is not necessary if painting over previously coated surfaces in good condition. If coated surfaces are uneven, visit your local Home Depot or hardware store to pick up a primer and apply it before you apply the regular coats of paint.
How do I get an even coat on the hinge recess?
Use a small artist’s brush to carefully paint in and around the recess edges. Apply light coats and avoid overbrushing.
How do I avoid drips when painting the hinge?
Keep your brush strokes level. Double-check that the paint is not too thick or overloaded on the bristles when painting the metal hinges to avoid drips.
