Dos and Don’ts for Choosing Front Door Colors

Choosing the right front door color is one of the easiest ways to boost your home’s curb appeal, but it’s not always an easy decision. With so many paint colors out there, it’s helpful to have a few guidelines. From classic shades to bold choices, here are some dos and don’ts to help you find a paint color that works with your home and stands the test of time.

Do Embrace Neutral Colors

You can’t go wrong with neutral front door colors. If you ever repaint your home, these classic shades will still coordinate beautifully. Black, dark gray, and dark brown are basic yet strong colors that never go out of style. Deep red and dark blue are versatile, classic options that work with many house colors and materials.

Don’t Shy Away From Bold Colors

Most house exteriors feature earth tones, whether it’s in the brick, stone, or siding. So, why not have some fun with a bold front door color? Consider bright shades like orange, yellow, or lime green, or go for richer tones like forest green, burgundy, or eggplant.

Do Pick the Right Type of Paint

With your front door exposed to the outdoors, you’ll need a paint that stands up to the elements. High-quality exterior-grade paints do the trick. Apply an oil-based enamel paint to prevent rust on metal doors. Use water-based latex for most wood species and fiberglass. And when it comes to choosing a primer, a gloss or semi-gloss finish is best.

Don’t Ignore Your Screen Door

Your screen door doesn’t have to distract from the front door color. Simply paint the frame the same color as the front door for a cohesive look. If you want to take it up a notch, you can paint the risers of the front steps in the same color.

Do Speak to Your Home’s Style

For a cue on the right color, look to the architectural style of your home. A traditional colonial might look stunning with a classic black or deep green door, while a modern farmhouse could rock a bold mustard yellow or soft blue. Don’t be afraid to play with contrast either; a bright coral door on a stately brick home can feel fresh and unexpected.

Do Draw Inspiration From Your Surroundings

If you’re stumped, look to nature and your home’s surroundings for inspiration. Consider a color that echoes the green of nearby trees, the blue of the sky, or a color found in your garden. Tying your door to the local landscape has a way of making your home look like it belongs.

Don’t Forget the Trim

The trim around your front door has the same effect as the frame on a piece of artwork. White is classic, but you can make a colorful door pop even more with a contrasting trim. Think of how a dark brown trim pairs with an emerald green door and helps the color transition to a stone facade.

Do Use the Color Wheel for Guidance

With thousands of paint colors available, it can feel overwhelming. The color wheel, a visual guide that shows how colors relate to one another, can help you quickly identify combinations that work well together.

Find your house’s color, and then look across the color wheel to select a complementary color. Or, choose an adjacent color for less contrast. For instance, let’s envision a dark blue house. Complementary colors are yellow and orange, and analogous colors are green and purple.

Discover Your Dream Home With a Professional Realtor

The Massey Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties helps clients find and purchase a house that works for them. Curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting buyers, and small updates, like a freshly painted front door, can make a strong visual impact.

Let’s get your home sold and help you find the right place for what’s ahead. To speak with a team member, contact us today at (618) 791-5024 or (618) 791-9298!