How to choose a front door paint colour

We know it may the last thing on your to-do list of household chores, but painting your front door a bright colour may be one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to transform the outside of your home.  

According to Plascon brand ambassador Claire Bond, you need to consider your own style and select a colour and finish for your door that will express your personality. Contemplate whether you want a matt door finish or a rich glossy finish. A coloured door is for people with loads of style and immediately lets your guests know a little about you before they take a peek at your home’s interior.

A bright, bold colour is a surefire bet to garner the attention of your neighbours, so make sure it’s for all the right reasons. Steer clear from garish colours and instead opt for primary colours. Take note of the style of the door and choose a colour that will complement the frame, brickwork, gutters and eaves.

Claire adds: “If your home has shutters or an accent wall, it is a good idea to use these colours as inspiration for your front door. Keep in mind that outside a colour looks lighter than the sample swatch card you select at a retailer, so the bolder the colour the better.”

Here is what you need to know, in terms of painting the actual door, courtesy of Duram Paint:

• Water-based enamels provide easier application as utensils are easily cleaned with water.
• Leave doors hanging off their hinges while you paint them so that you can paint both sides at the same time.
• Wrap hardware such as doorknobs, hinges and pulls in foil or masking tape to protect them before painting.
• Reading the instructions on the paint tin is the first thing you should do. Pay particular attention to the advice given about careful surface preparation, suitable primers, correct application of the product, and any other special instructions. If you start the process right, you are guaranteeing the best possible paint job.
• To retain sheen and colour consistency of your paint, always make sure that the batch numbers are the same on all paint containers you purchase.
• Take care when lifting, carrying and transporting your paint in accordance with its size and weight. Keep the pack in a secure upright position, to protect against damage and spillage especially in transit.