Spruce Up Your Curb Appeal with a Colorful Front Door

• Pick a weekend to select your color, purchase supplies and complete the task. Make sure the weather will be appropriate. Paint needs to dry, so clear, sunny days with mild temperatures are best.


• Choose a color. If you are not sure what color you want to use, you can purchase small samples in several colors and paint them on the door to get an idea of what you might like. Look at them throughout the day to see how they look as the light brightens and dims. Once you have chosen your FAVORITE HUE, you can then purchase what you will need to complete the project. For an exterior door that has been primed, you will need about one quart of paint.


• Make sure you use the RIGHT KIND OF PAINT. If you don't have a glass or storm door that protects your front door from the elements, you are going to want to use exterior paint. Paint with a glossy finish is best because it not only stands out, but also holds up against nicks and scrapes better than flat or eggshell paint. Most IMPORTANTLY, make sure to note if you are using latex or oil-based When you need to touch up the paint in the future, you should never use oil paint over latex or vice versa. Also, be sure that your primer has the same base as your paint. 


• Prepare to paint. You can paint your door in place or remove it from the hinges if you have a glass or storm door to keep insects and such from finding their way inside. You can also use a tarp to cover your doorway if you don't have a storm/glass door. Remove all hardware from the door. Using a wet rag, clean the door, and then use a sander or sandpaper to smooth it out. If you are painting a different color, you will need to prime it first.
  


• Now you are ready to paint! Begin by applying the PRIMER. Cover the entire door using a roller for application. After the primer dries, it is finally time to paint. If the door has trim work or small details, use a paintbrush to go over them. You can use a low-nap or foam roller to paint the whole door, but a paint brush will give you a lovely, hand-painted You can also just use a paintbrush for the final coat to give it that look. Make sure the door is completely dry before reattaching the hardware and rehanging the door if you removed it to paint. VOILA! You are done and you now have a front door you will be happy to walk through every day!