If you recently bought a house or you’re getting started on some well needed renovations, your wood trim around the walls of your house could be a good place to get started. While dark wood looks good in some instances, it could stick out like a sore thumb if you’re trying for a lighter color palette and aesthetic in your home. Painting the dark wood trim white will create a clean and bright appearance, but if you are going to do it on your own, it’s best to have an idea of what to do. For those of you who are looking for the steps for painting dark wood trim white, you’re in the right place
Table of Contents
Step 1: Pick a Shade
While you might have decided that white is the color you’re aiming for, have you decided on what shade of white? Depending on the look of your walls, you can either choose a stark white or one that has a bit of a deeper hue. Some houses will look nice with a warmer hue and others with a cooler hue. Choose one that will go well with the scheme!
Step 2: Purchase Supplies
Once you’ve landed on a color, head on over to your local hardware store to pick up some supplies. Here is a list of what you will need:
- Sponge
- Wood Filler
- Primer
- Paint
- Paint Tray
- Painter Tape
- Tarp
- Sandpaper
- Angled Paint Brushes (1 ½ in + 2 ½ in)
Once you’ve got what you need, you can get to work.
Step 3: Clean Up Holes, Nicks, and Abrasions
If your trim has some wear and tear, now is a good time to fix it up. Painting over any irregularities can look uneven. Go over any holes with a wood filler or caulking. Once complete, sand everything down so that the surface is even and ready for paint.
Step 4: Apply Painters Tape and Tarp
Protect your walls and floors from getting any paint on them with painters tape and a tarp. Line the edges of the trim evenly with a layer of painters tape. Then, lay down a tarp so that it is flush with the edges of where the floor meets the wall. Try not to leave any gaps between the floor and the trim.
Step 5: Prime the Surface
Priming the trim is optional, but it’s a good idea if you have any unevenness from holes or nicks that were patched up. Additionally, primer will be useful if the wood is more raw and will provide a smoother surface for painting. After applying primer, wait 24 hours before you begin to paint.
Step 6: Get Painting!
Once your primer is set and everything is good to go, you can begin painting. Vary between the larger brush and smaller brush to get a nice, even look. If necessary, add an additional coat of paint.
Once you finish the steps, your trim should look bright and light. A nice, white trim can even make your home appear more valuable. Use a free home appraisal tool to get a better idea. Painting can be a time consuming project, so be sure to pencil out a weekend to finish the job!
