Tips for Painting Your Front Door

You probably know that painting your front door is perhaps one of the simplest, quickest, and most economical ways to update your home. And, in most cases, all you need is one weekend to get it all done. However, there are some things that you have to keep in mind when painting your front door. 

For example, if you are looking to send a specific message to future visitors, it is best to start with the essential exterior detail – the color of the front door!  Although a new coat of exterior house paint will never hurt, note that the right exterior door color will make your house look welcoming, improve curb appeal, and even set the tone for what’s inside.

How to Paint Your Front Door

1. Choose the Right Color 

Take plenty of time choosing the perfect color for your door. If possible, take a couple of paint swatches home and then tape them up to your front door. See how the different colors look with the adjacent area. And if you’ve narrowed down your selections to 2 or 3 choices, you may also buy small samples of paint in order to easily compare a larger swatch of various colors next to one another. Also, think about how the color you choose will look through the seasons. 

The Architecture and Style of Your Home

There is no doubt that the style of your house should influence the colors that you choose for the front door. Traditional homes, for example, tend to feature doors with deep and rich colors, such as black, navy, green, or even red. On the other hand, contemporary builds will more likely boast some bold colors.

We are not saying that you have to adhere to tradition; however, the style and architecture of your home should influence your color choice.

(READ: 7 Simple and Inexpensive Ways to Update Your Home)

2. Sand Your Door Down

When you have identified what color you are painting the front door, it is time to prepare it to paint! Note that if your front door is wooden, you will certainly have to sand it before you can start painting. However, you do not have to sand your door down to the bare wood; make sure it is rough enough for the paint to adhere easily. 

Sanding down your front door is crucial as it will leave you with a smooth and nice surface that you can easily paint later on.

3. Apply the Top Coats

You can start applying your topcoats when the primer has completely dried. It is important to make sure that you do not apply too much paint at once. If you do that, the paint will start to run. And it is best to take a clean and angular sash brush and tidy paint roller for your topcoats.

4. Paint the Door Piece-by-Piece

Use a handheld brush to paint the bevels (these are the lower inset parts). To paint inside of front door, paint the inset panels with a clean roller.

Finish with the outer flat and center surfaces with a roller.

The external appearance of your home is one of the best ways that you can visually say, “Welcome to my beautiful home!” So, whether you are looking to host your friends and neighbors, or want to make a good and lasting first impression on potential home buyers, note that the smallest exterior details can go a long way when you decide to bring your guests inside your home. Painting your front door effectively does that!