When painting your front door, it's essential to use exterior paint. The product you apply needs to be UV and weather-resistant, as the exterior side of your door is exposed to outdoor elements. Sherwin-Williams recommends using our SnapDry™ Door and Trim Paint, a durable acrylic latex paint that dries quickly so that you can complete your project faster. Plus, using a higher sheen, like Satin or Semi-Gloss, will make it easier to hide imperfections and clean the door in the future.
How to Paint a Front Door
Are you looking for a quick and easy way to bump up your curb appeal? Consider painting your front door! Applying a fresh coat of front door paint, like our SnapDry™ Door and Trim Paint, revitalizes your entryway and gives your home more personality. Plus, completing this project is a breeze with the help of the friendly experts at Sherwin-Williams. We're happy to provide this guide detailing how to paint a front door, including recommended supplies, valuable tips and frequently asked questions.
Cost: $
Skill Level: Beginner
Duration: 1 day
STEP 1
Clean and Sand
First, remove any hardware (as possible) before washing the front door with a degreasing cleaner - then rinse and let it dry. After the door is dry, lightly sand with a sanding sponge and wipe away dust.
STEP 2
Apply Painters Tape and Primer
Place painter's tape around the doorknob, the door's windows, hinges and any other detailed areas you want to protect from paint. If primer is required, use a 1½"-2" angled brush to apply the product, starting with the recessed and detailed areas (see section A in the diagram below). Then, prime the remaining flat areas (sections B to E in the diagram) using a mini roller.
Tip: Cover your doorknob with aluminum foil to completely protect it while painting your front door. If you accidentally bump it when it’s not covered, wipe it immediately with a wet cloth.
Tip: When painting over a dark surface, use a primer for the best color coverage. Visit your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams store for expert advice on selecting the best products for your project.
STEP 3
Apply Front Door Paint
Once the primer dries, apply the first coat of SnapDry™ Door & Trim Paint in the order below for best results.
Tip: Keep in mind that exterior door paint dries faster in higher temperatures, lower humidity, and when exposed to direct sunlight. When possible, paint your front door in the early morning or late afternoon.
Tip: If you're only painting the exterior side of your front door, also paint the hinged edge of the door. The interior color of the door should match the latch edge.
Door Area A
First, use an angled brush to paint recessed or detailed areas. Painter's tape can prevent brush marks on other areas of the door, as brush marks may continue to show on smooth areas you cover with a roller.
Door Areas B to E
Use a brush or roller to paint areas B to E in alphabetical order. Apply the product over wet paint during this step to avoid paint streaks.
Colors We Used
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STEP 4
Apply a Second Coat of Front Door Paint
First, remove any hardware (as possible) before washing the front door with a degreasing cleaner - then rinse and let it dry. After the door is dry, lightly sand with a sanding sponge and wipe away dust.
STEP 5
Remove Painter's Tape & Reinstall Hardware
After the second coat of front door paint dries, it's time to remove the painter's tape and reinstall any door hardware you removed. All that's left is to enjoy the beauty of your newly painted front door!
Tip: Always clean your brushes for future use. Learn how to properly store and dispose of paint here.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Project Supplies
PAINT
BRUSHES, ROLLERS & FRAME
OTHER TOOLS & SUPPLIES
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend using a roller and a brush when painting a front door. A roller helps cover larger, flatter areas more quickly. Brushes are ideal for recessed and detailed areas that require more precise application, such as edges and curves on your door.
You can paint a fiberglass front door by following the steps outlined in this guide. As with any smooth surface, you'll want to start by cleaning, sanding and priming your fiberglass door. Then, apply high-quality paint like SnapDry™ Door and Trim Paint in your favorite color!
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