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Front of house with gray panel wall with blue door, white framing, windows around with white pillars and colored stone below them with stone steps and potted plant

How to Paint an Exterior Door

Painting advice to transform the first impression of your home

Front of house with gray panel wall with blue door, white framing, windows around with white pillars and colored stone below them with stone steps and potted plant

Painting Advice: How to Paint an Exterior Door

The front door is the best way to add curb appeal. You can add a little style, go outside the box and show personality. Here’s some painting advice to help you get the job done quickly and easily.

Find more painting advice   See Paint For Front Doors

How To Paint A Front Door

Step 1 - Prepare Your Front Door

It is not absolutely necessary to remove the door completely from the hinges.

But, if you don’t remove your door before painting it, make sure to tape off and cover any exposed hardware or windows.

Find more painting advice   See Paint For Front Doors

How To Paint A Front Door

Step 2 - Applying Paint To Your Front Door

Use a brush to cut in around taped and inlaid areas, and a roller for the rest of the surface.

Brush with the grain. If the door is metal or fiberglass, go in the direction that would be on a wood door, to create a natural look.

Find more painting advice   See Paint For Front Doors


Refer to the product label, Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety and application instructions.

How To Paint A Front Door

Step 3 - How To Fill & Refine Your Front Door Painting

If you have a flat, one-panel door, you can roll the paint directly on the surface.

If it’s a paneled door, first use a brush to paint the inlaid areas, then use a roller on the flat, outer sections.

Leave your door open until the paint is dry. The label on your paint can will give you an idea of how much dry time is required.

Find more painting advice   See Paint For Front Doors

How To Paint A Front Door

Step 4 - Remove Your Painter's Tape & Enjoy

Now, you can remove any tape, tarps, or protective coverings and enjoy your freshly painted door.

Remember to score your tape before removing it, to ensure that you don't rip off pieces of dry paint.

Find more painting advice   See Paint For Front Doors