How To Paint Your Front Door

Refreshing your front door with a new coat of paint is a straightforward project that can dramatically improve the look of your home. Here’s how to do it right, from choosing the paint to the final touches.

Tools and Materials

• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Tack cloth or a clean, lint-free rag
• High-quality exterior primer
• Exterior paint (gloss or semi-gloss)
• Angled sash brush and small roller
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloth
• Screwdriver

1. Prep the Area Before you begin, lay down a drop cloth to catch any drips and remove any mats or decorations from the area. This step ensures that your workspace is clean and prevents any accidental staining or damage to surrounding areas.

2. Remove the Door Hardware Using a screwdriver, remove any hardware such as handles, locks, or knockers. This will make it easier to paint and ensure a professional finish without smudges or paint on your hardware.

3. Sand and Clean the Door Sand the door lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove old paint and provide a key for the new paint. After sanding, wipe down the door with a tack cloth or a damp lint-free rag to remove any dust.

4. Tape Off Areas Use painter’s tape to protect hinges, windows, or any decorative glass elements. This step is crucial for achieving clean lines and preventing paint from getting on surfaces where it isn’t wanted.

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5. Prime the Door Apply a coat of high-quality exterior primer. Primer is essential for ensuring good paint adhesion and durability, particularly if you are changing the colour of your door or if the old paint was very worn.

6. Paint the Door Start painting from the centre of the door and work your way out, using an angled brush to get into corners and mouldings. For flat areas, a small roller can give a smooth finish. Apply at least two coats, allowing sufficient drying time between them, as recommended by the paint manufacturer.

7. Reattach Hardware Once the paint is completely dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape and reattach the hardware. Be sure the paint is thoroughly dry to avoid any marks or damage.

8. Maintain the Finish To keep your newly painted door looking its best, clean it regularly and touch up any chips or scratches promptly to protect it from the elements.

Painting your front door can significantly enhance your home’s appearance and can be a satisfying DIY task. If you choose the right paint and follow these steps, you can achieve a durable and attractive finish.

However, if the idea of painting your door seems daunting or you’re considering a new door instead, there’s a variety of low-maintenance uPVC and composite doors available in different colours. These can provide a fresh look without the need for painting. Explore a range of popular door colours.