Your front door is one of the great, unsung curb appeal heroes.
It’s easily eclipsed by larger projects, like full exterior repaints, but this smaller update can have a tremendous impact. The key is to really explore your options rather than just assume your door has to be a certain traditional color. In fact, front door colors have a long and rich history, and could be used to send messages to travelers, announce that a mortgage had been paid off, and more.
Pretty interesting, huh?
So, how about YOUR door? If it’s time for a change, let’s review your two primary options: painting and staining.
What Does the Door Painting or Staining Process Look Like?
The early steps look much the same, regardless of whether you paint or stain:
- Remove all hardware
- Strip the existing finish to bring the surface right back to basics, and pave the way for the fresh coats to come
- Next, we sand the surface to create a receptive profile that the new product can really grip onto
- Apply the finish products (stain, or primer/paint!)
Just like any project, it’s essential to take these early steps seriously by investing the necessary time to ensure total surface preparation. In fact, we go so far as to say that skillful prep is 80% of a quality project.
Painting Vs. Staining: The Cost and Maintenance You Can Expect
You’re at the crossroads!
Do you prefer the look of warm, natural wood, or love the stylistic options offered by bright, vibrant paint? This is certainly a question of aesthetics, but it’s also a question that requires consideration of both your budget AND your interest in ongoing maintenance.
To put it simply, painting is typically the more cost-effective option. Today’s products last a long time, withstand weather very well, and touch-ups/repaints are pretty straightforward.
Staining, when done correctly (and that’s key!), requires a more labor-intensive approach, and to keep that lustrous finish, more routine maintenance is often required.
Ballpark Cost: Every project is different, but in most cases you can expect a price tag between $250 and $1,000 depending on size, color scheme, the prep involve, etc.
Talk To a Painter Who Specializes in Door Painting and Refinishing Services
The best thing you can do is talk to a trustworthy professional, someone with a proven track record of successful projects. Discuss your budget with them, review their proposal, and be sure to ask about the longevity of the products they recommend and what long-term maintenance will most likely include.
Either way, you’re sure to love your new door. It’s just essential that you go into the process with your eyes wide open!
