How to Paint the Exterior of the Front Door

Paint can dress up and bring attention to your front door. The exterior of the front door colors typically range from neutral to bright reds, yellows and blues. The paint on the exterior of your door should be a semi-gloss finish. This is because flat paints get dirty quickly and high gloss paints show painting mistakes easily. You can use both latex and oil based paints for the door. Latex paints are easier to clean up but the paint takes several weeks to cure.

All purpose de-greaser
Clean rag
Painters tape
Automotive filler (as needed)
Sandpaper
Oil based primer
Foam paint roller
Paintbrush
Paint

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the door. Spray an all purpose de-greaser on the door and wipe it off with a clean rag.
- 2
  Remove or apply painters tape to the hardware of the door. The door hardware includes the door knob, lock and hinges.
- 3
  Repair the door as needed. Use automotive filler that is made for metal to fill in dents on the door. Fill the dent, let dry, and then sand the door smooth. Clean away the sanding dust with a damp rag.
- 4
  Prime the door with oil based primer. Apply the primer to the door with a foam roller. Allow the door time to dry per manufacturers instructions.
- 5
  Paint the door. Choose a paint color that complements your home’s exterior. Roll the paint onto the door with a foam paint roller. Use a paintbrush to reach difficult areas on the door. Wait for the first coat of paint to dry and then paint the door again. Let the door paint dry for several hours before use. Remove painters tape on the door's hardware, or if you removed these pieces, reattach them.

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