Four ways to paint a front door
A fresh coat of paint is the perfect way to get your front door looking its best before guests start knocking. Here are some simple steps to help you refresh your front door and expert advice on how to achieve four dramatically different looks.
Here are 4 quick steps to get you started.
How To Guides
Front door colour inspiration
Explore a range of colourful front doors to help guide your selection.






See how it's done
Discover how easy it can be to paint your front door like a professional and how the right paint colour can help you to achieve four dramatically different looks.
Here's what you'll need to get started:
Colour & Paint
Select your preferred finish
Semi gloss is perfect to pair with low sheen walls, or you may opt for a distinctive gloss or low gloss finish. Dulux Aquanamel® is available in gloss, semi-gloss and low gloss finishes.
Tools & Accessories
Short nap roller (5-10mm)
Roller tray
Flat paddle stirrer
Paint pot
Paper
Medium grit sandpaper
Damp cloth
How to get the perfect look
Prepare

Choose a colour
Chose a colour from the Dulux colour range – and don’t be afraid to go bold. Choose a sheen level that suits your home, semi gloss is perfect to pair with low sheen walls.

Test the current paint
Using a sharp knife, cut an “X”. Place tape over the X and remove quickly. If any paint comes off, all unstable paint must be removed.

Protect
Place a drop sheet on the exterior of the door and paper on the interior.

Clean
Clean the area using Selleys Original Sugar Soap, ensuring you remove any dirt and dust.

Sand
Sand it smooth using medium-grit sandpaper, cleaning away the dust.

Mask
Mask the door handle, window and hinges to protect them from paint.
Prime

Undercoat
Apply 1Step® Prep. Start in the smaller sections of the door, working your way out to the longest vertical panels.

Dry
Wait an hour for 1Step® Prep to dry before painting with your chosen colour.
Paint

Stir paint
Stir the paint with an up-and-down scoping motion.

Start with pannels
Start by filling in the front panels using a paintbrush, then the vertical sections between the panels.

Paint other sections
Paint the horizontal sections at the top, middle and bottom. And finally, the outside vertical panels.

Dry
Allow two hours to dry, and then lightly sand.

Second coat
Apply the second coat, following the same process as the first coat.

Finish
Carefully remove the masking tape and drop sheet and admire your new door!
Take on more outdoor projects
Even when it’s not in use, make the outdoor fireplace the centrepiece at gatherings with a standout look.
Give this corner of your garden the love it deserves and show it off with a colourful makeover.
The front of your house is all about first impressions. Look around your neighbourhood to see what colours appeal to you.