Painters often say the trim is where a paint job is won or lost. New wall paint next to scuffed, yellowed trim makes the whole room look half done.
- Trim frames the walls
- Semi-gloss is the usual finish
- Trim takes longer than walls
- Doors need several steps to do well
- Choose trim colour with the walls
Why trim matters
Baseboards, casings and door frames outline a room, so tired trim is very visible next to clean walls. Years of shoes, vacuum cleaners and fingerprints leave marks that wiping doesn’t remove, and fresh trim brings back crisp lines.
Choosing a finish
Semi-gloss is the usual choice for trim and doors. It’s hard-wearing and easy to wipe clean, and it gives a subtle contrast with flatter walls. Because shiny paint shows flaws, trim is repaired and sanded smooth first. See paint finishes explained.
White, or something else?
White or off-white trim is the classic choice and suits most colours. Make sure the white sits well with the wall colour, since a stark white beside a warm wall can look cold. Colour on trim and doors can work too, especially in older houses.
Why it takes time
Trim needs cleaning, filling nail holes, sanding, sometimes caulking gaps, and careful cutting in with a brush, plus more than one coat. Doors are painted on all faces and edges, and they must be dry before they’re closed. That’s why trim and doors change the price.
How to add them to your quote
In our online estimate, you can add trim and baseboards to each room and add doors with their frames. We confirm the price in person. For help with colour, read how to choose paint colours.
Quick questions
Do I have to paint trim when I paint walls?
No, it’s your choice. Many people do, because fresh walls beside old trim look unfinished, but you can add or leave it out.
Can you paint stained wood trim white?
Yes, with the right prep and primer. Wood grain can show through, so it’s worth discussing the look you want.
Want trim and doors included? Add them to your estimate and see the price straight away.
