Whether you want an updated look to wow potential buyers or a more personalized look for your new home, painting the front door can make a big impact. But what color should you go with? Here are a few tips and some trendy color suggestions to get your home looking its best.
Start with the color wheel
If you aren’t sure what colors go together, using a color wheel to pick the right door color can help. The color schemes below represent arrangements of color that are generally pleasing.
- Monochromatic. Shades and tints of the same color. Example: maroon, red, and pink.
- Analogous. Two to four colors directly next to each other on the color wheel. Examples: orange, yellow-orange, and yellow or blue, green, and yellow.
- Complimentary. Two colors that are exactly opposite each other on the color wheel. Example: blue and orange.
- Triadic (sometimes called contrasting). Three colors evenly spaced on the color wheel to form a triangle. Example: Green, orange, and purple.
If you’re not painting the entire outside of your home, take a look at the colors that are already there. Find the predominant color on the color wheel, and use one of these color schemes to find your door color.
Neutral colors
Neutral colors include black, white, gray, brown, wood stain and variations of these colors. The good news is neutrals go with just about everything. They’re a good choice if you’ll be changing other outdoor features or if you’re repainting for selling purposes.
If your home is already a neutral color you can pair it with a bold door color, or a color with a similar or opposite undertone. For example, if your home is a shade of gray with a blue undertone, a navy blue door might look good. Or you may want a warm color such as yellow or orange to go with a cool gray. Your choice will depend more on the look and feel you’re going for.
If your door or the area around it has architectural details, a lighter neutral paint or stain ensures they’ll still be visible.
Other color inspiration
Location can inspire color. Some areas of the country have persistent color trends like the bright exterior home colors of the Southwest. Or if your home is in a wooded area, natural colors such as greens and browns may look more appropriate. There may also be a color that’s unique to the buildings in your neighborhood or the style of home you have. Also, consider what kind of feelings a color evokes. Are you looking for a modern feel, playful, or traditional? Something bold or more subdued?
Remember you can get a different look by painting the area around the door, or the frames of screens and storm doors too.
Trendy ideas for color
Just want something fashionable? One of these trendy door colors may fit with the style and color of your home.
- High gloss black
- Lime green
- Sunshine yellow
- Coral
- Pumpkin orange
- Navy
- Oak stain
- Chocolate
- Grape
- Red
More tips
- Once you’ve got a few ideas, make your selection by looking at colors in the outdoor light. You can paint sample colors on the door if you want. See how they look at different times of the day.
- Make sure to use exterior primer and paint. If you are painting a metal door make sure to use a product that inhibits rust.
Picking the right color for your front door can create a unique look and make a big impression. These rules offer guidance, but ultimately you’ll want something you like that works with the design of your house.
