Reasons for Choosing a Front Door Color Different From the Siding

Generate curb appeal. Selecting a door color that contrasts with the color of the siding will attract attention directly to the door, giving the entryway a sense of depth. The greater the color difference between the door and siding, the greater the illusion of depth and the more the door stands out, or “pops,” from the surrounding structure. For example, a black door against light-colored siding creates a much more dramatic illusion of depth than a beige-colored door against light siding.

Offset the detail of the door. If the door has special design characteristic, such as engravings, windows or a transom, painting the door a different color from the siding will draw more attention to the detail by virtue of the door standing out from the surrounding structure. You also can paint engraved, raised or sunken areas of the door itself different colors, or dissimilar shades of the same color, to make the detail of the door stand out from the door itself. Dramatically emphasize that detail by selecting complimentary colors, such as red and green, yellow and violet or blue and orange. For a more subdued effect, choose different tones of the same color, such as light and dark browns or reds.

Indulge your artistic aspirations. Try different colors until you find a tone or shade that suits your taste. The front door does not have to match the trim and can be painted any color you wish and changed as often as you like. However, to avoid becoming the neighborhood eyesore, steer clear of loud or clashing colors, such as bright orange.