Your entrance door is one of the first things people notice when they visit your home, and keeping it in pristine condition can boost your home’s curb appeal. Whether you’re going for a fresh new look or need to refresh a fading finish, painting your entrance door can make a big difference. Here’s why it’s important, what materials to use, and when to paint your door for the best results.
The Importance of Painting Your Entrance Door
A well-painted door doesn’t just enhance the appearance of your home; it also serves as a protective layer against the elements. Rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations can cause fading, cracking, and peeling over time. Painting your door helps maintain its durability, protecting it from moisture, UV rays, and other wear and tear.
When to Paint Your Door
Timing is critical when it comes to painting an exterior door. We recommend painting your doors before winter or early in spring when temperatures rise above 10°C (50°F). This is because most paints take about three weeks to fully cure, and colder temperatures can negatively affect the curing process. Plan at least one month ahead of winter or during mild weather in the spring to ensure the paint has enough time to set properly.
Materials We Recommend
Choosing the right paint for your entrance door is essential to ensure a long-lasting and high-quality finish. Here are our top three recommendations:
- Benjamin Moore Aura in Soft Gloss
This is our first choice for exterior doors. Aura offers excellent durability, weather resistance, and color retention, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like your entrance. The soft gloss finish provides just the right amount of sheen for a classy look. - Sherwin Williams Emerald Rain Refresh in Satin
Another excellent option, this paint not only provides a beautiful finish but also features self-cleaning technology, which helps dirt and grime wash away with rain. The satin sheen gives a smooth, polished appearance. - Dulux Diamond Exterior in Satin
Known for its exceptional durability, Dulux Diamond is a great choice for homes exposed to harsher weather conditions. The satin finish offers a sleek look, while the paint itself resists fading, cracking, and peeling.
Key Tips for Painting Your Entrance Door
- Avoid Painting in Direct Sunlight
Painting your door in direct sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to uneven brush marks, bubbling, or peeling. If your door faces direct sunlight, try painting in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. - Consider Color Choice
Darker colors absorb more heat, which can cause the paint to soften or blister over time. If you’re opting for a darker shade, it’s even more important to avoid painting in direct sun. - Test the Paint for Compatibility
Before you start, test the paint on a small section of the door to ensure it adheres well and is compatible with the previous coating. This will help you avoid issues like peeling or uneven coverage later. - Priming the Door
While most high-end exterior paints are self-priming, we recommend using a dedicated primer for optimal results. For this, Sherwin Williams Extreme Bond Primer or Benjamin Moore STIX are excellent choices. Priming creates a smooth surface and improves paint adhesion, ensuring your finish lasts longer. - Application Tips
- After priming, let the primer cure for at least 24 hours.
- Apply two coats of your chosen paint for full coverage and durability.
- Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Final Thoughts
Painting your entrance door can breathe new life into your home’s exterior and help protect it from the elements. By choosing the right materials, following best practices, and timing the project around favorable weather, you’ll achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish. Whether you go with Benjamin Moore Aura, Sherwin Williams Emerald Rain Refresh, or Dulux Diamond Exterior, these top-quality paints will keep your entrance door looking beautiful for years to come.
ALBERTA PAINTERS CO. 
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