Your front door sets the mood for visitors.
Freshen up your entry to help your home make a great first impression.
Learning how to paint your front door might just be the quickest bang-for-your-buck project to boost your home’scurb appeal.
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Plus, you could easily knock out this job in a day or two.
Still trying to figure out where to begin?
Several paint experts helped us put together this step-by-step guide to paint your front door like a pro.
Depending on where you live, summer may be too hot, and winter can get too cold.
If unexpected precipitation interrupts your project, shield your freshly painted door with painter’s plastic or a tarp.
Interior paint will chip and crack if painted on an exterior door.
Simply remove the door handle and lock, and place the pieces in a plastic bag for safekeeping.
Alternatively, wrap the hardware in painter’s tape.
It’s also a good idea to remove the door completely if you’ve got the option to.
“You want the surface to be clean, dry, and dull.
All it takes is a bucket of soapy water and a clean cloth to get the job done.
For tougher areas, use a scrubber sponge or brush to remove residue.
Let the door dry completely before moving to the next step.
“A good rule of thumb is 24 hours,” Nellis says.
Sand With 120-Grit Sandpaper
If your door is in fine shape, a light sanding will do.
“This helps prepare the surface for the new layers of paint and primer.”
Begin by removing large chips of paint with a metal putty knife or scraper.
Finally, use a tack cloth to remove dust and debris without adding moisture.
verify to completely remove all dust so small particles don’t get into the wet paint.
Apply painter’s tape to protect any decorative details on the door that you don’t want painted.
Prime the Door (If Applicable)
Priming ensures smooth and consistent coverage and proper adhesion.
Most high-quality exterior paints allow for software right over a properly prepared and previously painted door.
This software of several thin coats of paint builds up a protective surface on the door.
“Don’t rush it,” Nellis suggests.
“Plan to apply at least two coats and don’t lay it on too thick.
A high-quality brush and 4-inch mini roller can go a long way with a little practice.”
Some topcoats can cause yellowing over time due to exposure to the elements.
Clean Up
After applying the last coat of paint, promptlyclean your paintbrushes and rollers.
Finally, replace the door if you removed it from its hinges.
Otherwise, your new coat of paint could flake off, crack, or peel.
