If you’re thinking about restoring your wooden doors instead of replacing them, one of the first questions you’ll have is cost.
In the UK, the cost to dip and strip a door typically ranges between £50 and £80 per door, depending on size, condition, number of paint layers and whether collection and delivery are included. Prices can vary by region and by the level of finishing required after stripping.
At North West Door Stripping, pricing depends on the type of door, paint build-up, and any additional restoration work needed. We provide clear quotes based on your specific doors rather than one flat estimate.
What Is Included in Door Dipping?
Professional door dipping usually involves immersing the door in a stripping tank to break down multiple layers of paint or varnish. After soaking, the door is pressure washed to remove loosened coatings, then neutralised to return the timber to a safe pH level before drying.
This process removes thick paint build-up without aggressive sanding that can damage mouldings, panels or original detailing.
Why Does Door Stripping Cost Vary?
Door stripping prices vary because not all doors are the same. External doors are often larger and more heavily coated than internal doors. Period doors may require more careful handling. Some services include collection and delivery, while others charge separately.
Additional services such as sanding, minor repairs, oiling, staining or refinishing will also affect the final cost.
Is Door Dipping Cheaper Than Replacing Doors?
In most cases, yes.
Replacing a solid timber door can cost £150 to £300 or more, excluding fitting. Restoring your existing doors through dipping and stripping is often significantly more affordable while preserving original materials.
For older properties in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire and across the North West, restoring original doors usually adds more value and character than replacing them with modern alternatives.
Is It Worth Stripping Old Doors?
If the door is solid wood, it is usually worth restoring.
Many older doors are made from high-quality timber that is difficult and expensive to replace today. Stripping away layers of paint can reveal beautiful natural grain and original craftsmanship.
How Long Does Door Dipping Take?
Turnaround times vary depending on workload and the number of doors. Most professional services operate on collection and return schedules rather than same-day service.
We provide clear time estimates at the quotation stage so you know exactly what to expect.
Is Door Dipping Safe for Old Doors?
When carried out professionally and properly neutralised, door dipping is safe for most solid timber doors. The key is ensuring that any chemical residue is fully removed and the wood is thoroughly dried before sanding or finishing.
Does Door Dipping Remove Lead Paint?
Older properties, especially those built before the 1980s, may contain lead-based paint. Removing old coatings using high-dust methods such as dry sanding or blowtorching can create health risks.
Professional dipping reduces the need for aggressive sanding and helps control paint removal more safely when handled correctly.
What Extra Costs Should You Expect?
Possible additional costs may include collection and delivery, hardware removal, repairs to damaged timber, or finishing treatments such as oiling or staining.
Always check what is included in your quote so there are no surprises.
Looking for Door Dipping Near You?
If you’re searching for door dipping near me, dip and strip doors in Liverpool, door stripping Manchester or paint stripping Cheshire, we offer professional collection and restoration services across the North West.
