Painting the Front Door
Maximize Curb Appeal and the Appearance of a Home's Exterior
Learn the best techniques for painting a front door from top to bottom.
We pass in and out of our homes several times a day through the front door. How many times have we probably ignored the fact that the front door acts as a symbol of welcome? By simply changing the color of that door, you can change the whole appearance of your home. It's a simple project that yields major results.
If your door is in good condition, you'll only need to lightly sand it before painting; if your door contains cracks or flaking paint, consolidate these areas of paint first before continuing. Plan to begin painting early in the morning or on a day when the humidity is low, since moisture in the air affects paint-drying time.
When selecting paint for your door, consider the following: First, determine what color you'd like to use on your door. If you like to hang evergreen wreaths or other objects on the door, choose a light paint color so that these items will stand out.
Also, select a high-quality exterior paint for the door. Exterior paints will be able to withstand sun, moisture and humidity in changing seasons of the year. If you need assistance in selecting the proper paint or supplies for this project, visit a local hardware or paint-supply store.
TECHNIQUE
Painting the Front Door
Materials:
- 50-grade sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Masking or blue painter's tape
- Awl (optional)
- Hammer (optional)
- 3-inch paint brush
- Latex exterior paint
Directions:
- Use sandpaper to roughen the surface of the door; a rough surface will enable the new coat of paint to adhere to the door. Remove sanding dust with a clean cloth, and wipe door thoroughly using a tack cloth. Be sure the door is free of dust before applying paint.
- Conceal hardware with masking or blue painter's tape. Before removing lid from paint can, shake the contents well. To eliminate excess drips on the outside of the can, use an awl and a hammer to punch several holes along the inner rim of the can. Dip paint brush into can, and shake off any excess paint from the tip of the brush.
- Beginning at the top of the door, paint raised panels and moldings. Check corners for drips often, and use a paint brush to feather out the drips while following the natural "grain" of the door. Paint flat areas using smooth, even strokes. Allow door to dry for at least 24 hours.
- Lightly sand surface of the door, and wipe down thoroughly using a tack cloth. Apply second coat of paint, and allow door to dry for an additional 24 hours. Remove masking tape from hardware.
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