Beauty is found in proportion, in the artistic composition of color and contrast. One of the ways this is achieved is with accents. If everything is similar, nothing stands out, and there is nothing for the eye to rest upon. An accent, however, draws the eye to itself, and it provides contrast so that the surrounding colors have a greater effect. This is one of the reasons many people paint their exterior doors. Let’s take a look at the process: how do you paint exterior doors?
Selecting a Paint Color for an Exterior Door
The front door is the place to go for a dramatic pop of color. Many people have done this to great effect in recent years. Red was the first color to explode in popularity, and it remains a great choice. However, navy blue, forest green, buttercup yellow… many bold colors can be excellent choices.
If your siding is a relatively neutral color, such as beige, gray, or white, you have no limits on your door color choices. Even if the house is brick red or another solid color, it is hard to go wrong with a bold paint color on your door. Just avoid an obvious clash, and you will be fine. Try searching online for photos of front door colors, and see what appeals you to. Have fun with the process, and don’t be afraid of a big change!
Painting Exterior Doors
As with any painting project, the first step is to clean the surface. Use a mild cleaner and a sponge to thoroughly remove any residue on the door. Next, protect the surrounding area with tarps or plastic. Use painter’s tape to protect the hinges and knobs.
If you are able to, it is easier to paint the door if you remove it from the frame and remove the knobs and hardware. That way, you can easily reach every surface, and you don’t need to worry about getting paint where you don’t want it. However, it is perfectly possible to paint the exterior door while it is in place.
The door will need primer if it is bare wood or bare metal, but this is not usually the case. Typically, even a new door comes with primer on it. That said, if you are going to drastically change the color of the door, applying a primer first will help you do this with fewer topcoats.
How to Apply Primer and Paint
Use a brush to paint all the contours, nooks, and crannies on the door, and use a 3-inch foam roller on all the smooth surfaces. If the door is still in the frame, start at the top and work your way down, being careful not to leave any drips. If the door has been removed, start at one end and work towards the other. For best results, paint the edges of the door as well. Though you do not see them when the door is closed, they do become visible when the door is open.
Apply at least two coats of semi-gloss exterior paint to your door. Take note of how long the paint needs to dry, and do not close the door until that deadline is well past. If you close the door too soon, the uncured paint will stick to the door frame and then peel off when you open it again.
Cherry Hill Painting
Painting your exterior doors is a moderate do-it-yourself project. It may take a day or two, depending on your skill and experience (and on the condition of the door). For quicker results and less time out of your life, consider hiring a professional painting company. When you work with a skilled house painter, you can be sure of more beautiful and enduring results.
For homeowners in New Jersey and the Philadelphia area, Cherry Hill Painting is an excellent choice. We have a record of many decades of excellent painting service in this area, adding beauty to the homes and lives of countless families!
Contact our office to schedule a free painting estimate, whether it is for an exterior door, a deck, a garage, or the exterior painting for your whole house! We look forward to hearing from you!