There are some simple changes you can make to improve the kerb appeal of your house. If you are looking for ways to make your front door look pretty or nicer read on. To freshen up or update your front door, a quick and simple way to do this, if you are on a limited budget, is by painting it.
If you are looking for a classy country colour, how about about Frenchic paint Al Fresco range in the beautiful pastel colour Duckling. It’s a lovely bluey grey paint and super easy to use. They have a gorgeous variety of colours ranging from black, greys, blues, greens, dark shades, pastel shades, pinks, natural hues and bright white. Take a look at the beautiful range of colours here Frenchic Al Fresco. This lovely paint is suitable for wood, laminate, UPVC and metal, so it’s a great choice for your kitchen, bathroom, front door or just about any type of garden furniture. You may like to read this article How to update a kitchen on a budget.
How to paint a front door
- Remove all door furniture eg letterbox plate, handle, knocker etc.
- Prepare the door by cleaning with sugar soap.
- Lightly sand the door down with a fine sandpaper.
- Ensure the door is completely clean and brush away any sanding residue.
- Carefully apply your first coat.
- Leave to dry for a couple of hours before applying a second coat.
- Apply 2-3 coats of paint. You can add a finishing coat if you prefer.
- Job done!
- Carefully replace door furniture/accessories.
- Be gentle with it and allow the paint to ‘cure’ for about three weeks. (Tip: All water based paint takes time to cure.)
Now I’ve discovered Frenchic Paint I would honestly recommend it. It’s easy to use with simple preparation, it is self-levelling (meaning less hassle to avoid brush marks) and self-sealing. You don’t need undercoat and no top coat or sealer is required. If you prefer you can apply a finishing coat. The Al Fresco Range has minimal VOC content and has been certified safe to use on children’s toys.
Door furniture
Have fun choosing door furniture. You can use the same finish for all your door furniture for a classic stylish look. Or throw caution to the wind and go for quirky. There are some wonderful door knockers out there! You can choose from a range of finishes including brass, chrome, nickel or stainless steel.
The Range have some lovely door knockers, with a range including hearts, owls, seahorses, bumblebees and hedgehogs. Take a look at these:
- Heart door knocker – textured gunmetal silver
- Heart door knocker
- Bumblebee door knocker
- Owl door knocker
- Or discover the full range here Door knockers
Doormat
You don’t want your visitors to trample dirt into your home so lay a doormat to pick up the debris – really important after those dog walks too. The right one can totally transform your doorstep. Again The Range have a great selection ranging from about £2, take a look here.
Lighting
Having a light by your front door is great for security as well as being useful for you. Have you ever tried putting a key in a door when it’s pitch black, it’s not the easiest thing to do, especially if you are armed with bags of shopping. Your option is either a light with a motion detector or a light that you can control via a switch from the inside of your house, or via remote control on a smart phone. If you want a modern sleek look try this Up and down light
Plants
A couple of plant pots or hanging baskets will add to the kerb appeal of your house and also give you the lovely feeling of being close to nature. We all love flowers don’t we! Scented flowers will create a lovely waft of fragrance and depending on your situation you could go for the whole roses or wisteria round the door. You can find some lovely accessories in the English Heritage Shop Shop here.
Garland
Garlands or wreaths aren’t just for Christmas! You can buy them ready made to reflect each season or how about making your own and adapting it throughout the year – flowers for spring and summer then autumn and winter vibes later in the year. The Range door wreaths.
Maintenance
- Keep your front door clean, wiping off any marks on the paint or door furniture.
- Sweep your step regularly with a dustpan and brush.
- Shake the doormat and wash in the washing machine if it’s washable.
- Deadhead any flowers in your pots and hanging baskets to keep them looking good for longer.
- Keep your windows and window sills clean.
- Try and keep on top of weeds and aim to get your lawn mowed regularly to keep the front garden tidy.
COUNTRY RAMBLES 