How to Create a Welcoming Front Door

The front door is the first impression visitors get of your home.

Your front door sets the stage for your home. Visitors can feel either welcomed or turned off. Create a front door that ensures they want to stay.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Paint
• Clear coat
• Rug
• Hardware or hardware polish
• Lighting
• Oil

Instructions

1. Take a broom to the cobwebs under the eaves and sweep off your porch. Before you make any cosmetic changes, sweep it off, clean it up and dust it out.

2. Consider a new color, such as a soft turquoise, a classic black, or hunter green. Go with what best fits the style and color of your house.

3. Give it some gloss! A well-chosen color is enhanced with a shiny coat. Try either an automotive spray or light coats of clear gloss spray.

4. Add a colorful rug that complements your house and the door itself.

5. Freshen up your hardware. There is no feeling like opening a glossy cherry red door with bright brass hardware. No matter what finish you choose, make sure it is clean, tarnish free, and shiny. Consider adding a beautiful door knocker if you don't already have one.

6. Add light. Not only is a warm glow at a front door inviting, but it gives your guests an added feeling of safety and security. Updated fixtures can freshen an exterior easily and at relatively little cost. If your fixtures are still new, dust, polish and make sure the bulbs are in good working order.

7. Oil your hinges if you're hearing squeaks. It will help your home say a perky, "Welcome!" not an eerie, "Welcome to your doom!"

Tips & Warnings

• There are new bulbs on the market that do not as readily attract bugs.