I’ve often noticed that people tend to remove old flush doors in their homes, especially in flats or older properties that are 10-12 years old. Instead, they replace them with laminated or veneer-finished doors. But here’s the thing – this is an unnecessary expense. Why waste your money when you can transform those old doors to give your home a royal, luxury feel? With a few simple tricks, your doors can look like they cost a fortune without the hefty price tag.
I’ll show you how to elevate old flush doors or wooden doors into high-end pieces, the value doors bring to your interiors, and how you can create stunning looks with minimal budget. So, let’s dive in!
What’s Wrong with Old Doors?
Let’s start by discussing what most homes have: flush doors. These are usually basic doors with a simple design, often with a cheap veneer finish. Typically, you find these in apartments, and if your home is older, you may have doors that look outdated and lack the luxurious vibe you desire.
However, this doesn’t mean you need to throw them out and buy expensive new doors. In fact, with some smart changes, you can give these doors an ultra-modern, royal feel for a fraction of the cost.
Step-by-Step Process to Upgrade Your Doors
- Remove Old Paint or Laminate
The first step is to strip off the old paint or laminate. You’ll need a professional to remove the old layers effectively. Once the surface is smooth, we can move to the next step. - Apply a Putty Coat
To get that smooth, luxurious finish, you’ll need to apply a putty coat, just like what you’d do on walls. There are two types of putty coats: one for high-end finishes and one for a standard finish. I recommend three coats for a premium look. Make sure to sand between coats. - Painting
Once the surface is smooth, it’s time to paint. This is where most people go wrong. Instead of opting for a glossy finish, which might give a plastic-like look, you should choose a matte finish for a sophisticated look. You can use an animal matte finish paint, which comes in various shades. Personally, I love using a grey shade, which complements the rest of my interior. - Costing Comparison
Let’s talk money. By following this process, you’ll save a significant amount. If you were to replace the doors, it could cost you anywhere between ₹60,000 to ₹70,000 for new doors. However, refurbishing your old doors will cost you only around ₹21,000 for seven doors, saving you around ₹40,000. You can use that saved amount to enhance other areas of your home.
Playing with Door Frames and Designs
The door frame is just as important as the door itself. If you want to create a more luxurious feel, consider adding trims to your door frames. Wall trims, for example, can create a stunning effect and transform plain doors into something much more elegant. Keep it minimal, though – avoid overdoing it with too many panels. A few simple rectangular trims will work wonders.
Why You Don’t Always Need UPVC Doors
Some of you might be thinking about replacing the doors with UPVC ones. While UPVC doors are a good option, they tend to be more expensive. In terms of aesthetics and cost-effectiveness, wood finishes are hard to beat. Plus, with the right finish, wood doors can have a premium feel that UPVC simply can’t match.
Using Laminates for a Modern Twist
If you’re not into painting, laminated finishes are another option. Laminates have come a long way and now come in a variety of textures and finishes, such as leather, wood, or even dark grey shades. These can give your doors a fresh, modern look without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading your old doors is an affordable way to make a big difference in your home’s interiors. Whether you choose to repaint, add trims, or explore laminated finishes, there’s no need to spend a fortune on brand-new doors. By investing in a little creativity, your old doors can have a luxurious, high-end appearance without the cost.
