How to fix a chipped door frame

[MitchellMc]

Difficulty: Beginner

Door frames often suffer from unsightly chips and damage due to frequent door movement, especially on their architraves. An architrave is a decorative timber moulding that surrounds the door frame. 

Here is a simple guide on how to fix a chipped architrave using a two-part filler. As this project involves chemicals, please follow all product and safety guidelines provided by manufacturers and use the recommended protective gear.

Steps

Step 1

Prepare the filler.

Two-part fillers are typically made up of a red catalyst and a white filler. They are more robust than single-part fillers and are perfect for repairing surfaces that are damaged frequently, like architraves.

Mix the white filler into a small portion of the red catalyst. Refer to the instructions on the product label for how to mix them.

Your filler should now be an even pink colour.

      

Step 2

Apply the filler.

Use a scraper to apply the filler to the damaged section of the architrave. Work your way in from both sides of the edge to form a peak towards the middle.

Allow the filler to dry for an hour.

    

Step 3

Sand the filler.

Wrap your 180-grit sandpaper around the sanding block.

Sand the filler to create a smooth edge on your architrave. Use the block’s sharp edges to follow the architrave’s shape.

If more filler is needed to create a smooth edge, prepare another small portion of filler and re-apply it to the damaged section. Sand it again using the 180-grit sandpaper when dry.

      

Step 4

Sand the architrave.

Wrap your 180-grit sandpaper around the sanding block. Sand along your architrave until any gloss finish is dulled.

Pay special attention to any areas where the paint is peeling or fading. Sand those areas until a solid layer is found.

  

Step 5

Apply the undercoat.

Wipe the architrave with a damp cloth.

Apply painter’s tape on the wall and floor surrounding the architrave.

Now use a brush to apply a layer of undercoat around the architrave where it meets the wall and floor. Switch to your roller and apply another layer to the architrave’s face, including the repaired section.

Allow the undercoat to dry as per the instructions on the label.

    

Step 6

Paint the architrave.

Rinse your roller and paint tray. Add enamel paint to the clean paint tray.

Now paint the architrave with the roller. Let it dry before applying a second coat.

You’ve now successfully repaired and painted your chipped architrave.

  

Materials

• 180-grit sandpaper
• Undercoat, like Dulux 1Step Prep Primer, Sealer & Undercoat
• Enamel paint, like Taubmans 1L White Semi Gloss Water Based Enamel
• Two-part filler, like Turbo 175ml Builders Bog Flexipack
• Cloth
• Painter’s tape.

Tools

• Sanding block
• Paint roller
• Paint tray
• Paint brush
• Scraper
• Safety gear, including a face mask, safety glasses and gloves.

Images

                                

[Akanksha]

Thanks Mitch. 

Those looking for more information on repairing different parts of their home can find similar guides underneath the topic labelled Repairing in our How To section. These include step-by-step guides like How to fix a squeaky door.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. We'd be happy to assist.

Akanksha

[Nailbag]

Hi @MitchellMc another great how to tip post. Can I recommend an alternative to builders bog, the Parafix multipurpose filler. I use it all the time for similar repair projects, but without the need to mix and it's much easier to work with an especially sand.

regards, Nailbag