GIVE YOUR FRONT DOOR AN AUTUMN GLOW UP!
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, many of us are turning our attention towards creating the perfect autumn display around the exterior of our homes. Any seasonal look, however, can fall short if there is a tired, outdated-looking front door as a backdrop!
This article by property expert Gregory Smith at PriceYourJob.co.uk, will explore some of the best paint colours for autumn and beyond, as well as delving into the ideal types of paint that will allow it to withstand the UK weather and stay looking fresh all year long.
Perfect Paint Colours for Autumn
Giving your front door an autumn glow-up involves selecting colours that truly embody the spirit of the season. The shades we have selected to explore in this article will look stunning if left on all year round, but create a particularly striking impact this season:
Deep Reds
Nothing says autumn like the bold vibrancy of a red door, and shades of cranberry, burgundy, or brick red are timeless choices that instantly evoke feelings of warmth and tradition. In many cultures, red front doors symbolise welcome, luck, or protection – making them a meaningful choice for the season.
A deep red front door works particularly well on homes with a white trim or a more neutral base, allowing the colour to pop and create a bold statement without overwhelming the architecture.
Pair the colour with brass hardware and a beautiful autumn wreath made of berries or dried leaves to create an entryway that feels festive and inviting. You can easily change up the look to suit other seasons with the accessories you choose.
Warm Earth Tones
When we think of autumn, one of the first images that comes to mind is crisp foliage in a stunning array of colour falling from the trees. Shades like rust, terracotta, and burnt orange mimic this natural palette perfectly and will seamlessly blend your home in with the landscape of the season.
These earthy hues evoke feelings of warmth and cosiness and look particularly striking against brick exteriors or rustic stone facades. A terracotta door will reflect the glow of autumn leaves and pumpkins, while a deeper orange feels both bold and comforting.
Earth tones are very versatile and can transition beautifully into winter when paired with evergreen garlands or twinkling lights. To keep the look feeling balanced and harmonious, consider neutral planters or black lanterns as accents around the doorway.
Shades of Gold
Golden yellows and mustard tones bring a cheerful energy to your home’s exterior, perfect for adding a splash of bright energy as the days begin to shorten. These shades catch the afternoon sunlight, making your door radiate a warm glow even on cooler, cloudier days.
Harvest gold tones are particularly eye-catching against darker siding such as navy, charcoal, or forest green. These pairings create a vibrant contrast that perfectly embodies the colour palette of the season.
Style this look with natural textures such as a woven wreath, a jute doormat, and copper lanterns. The combination will create a warm and welcoming aesthetic that captures the richness of the autumn harvest.
Rich Greens
Hunter, olive, or forest green provide a grounding balance to the bold, fiery tones of autumn foliage. These sophisticated and versatile shades pair beautifully with a range of colours on both modern and traditional architecture.
A green door is a timeless choice, reflecting the evergreen trees that symbolise resilience as the seasons come and go. Olive tones, in particular, offer a softer, muted look that perfectly complements warm-toned brick or tan siding.
To style a green door for autumn, layer in natural décor such as eucalyptus wreaths, beautifully filled planters, or arrangements of gourds in varying shades of greens and white. This will create a lush and refined entryway that feels connected to nature.
Classic Neutrals
For a more subtle and understated approach, deep neutrals like warm taupe, chocolate brown, or charcoal grey provide a stunning and elegant backdrop for seasonal decorations.
A dark neutral door allows endless opportunities for creativity and playing around with seasonal accessories such as pumpkins in shades of cream and copper, layered rugs, or oversized lanterns, which can work harmoniously without competing for attention.
These shades are subtle enough to work all year round while still adding depth and richness in the autumn. As autumn transitions into winter, you can easily swap out the pumpkins for pine branches and keep the look feeling fresh with each changing season.
Selecting the Right Type of Paint for UK Weather
Now you have some beautiful autumn colours in mind, before you select your paints, it is important to consider the elements your front door will face throughout the year.
UK weather is often damp and dreary, with frequent rain showers, and during the winter months, frost and freezing temperatures can make exterior paint crack or peel if not chosen wisely. On the other hand, any sunny days we experience may lead to UV damage, fading vibrant colours over time.
Choosing paint that can cope with moisture, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations is essential and here are some of the types of paints best suited for these conditions:
Oil-Based Paints
Oil-based paints are a classic favourite when it comes to exterior woodwork, and for good reason. They provide a hard, durable finish that is resilient against the elements, and their ability to expand and contract with temperature changes makes them an ideal choice for UK weather.
Acrylic Latex Paints
Acrylic latex paints are another excellent option for front doors. These water-based paints are quick-drying, don’t give off harsh odours, and are easy to clean up. They offer good flexibility and adhesion, allowing them to withstand the fluctuations of British weather. Many premium brands now offer acrylic options designed specifically for exterior use, providing enhanced durability and UV protection.
Satin and Semi-Gloss Finishes
While selecting your paint type, it is important to consider the finish as well. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are particularly suitable for front doors because they provide a beautiful sheen while being easy to clean. These finishes also help to repel moisture, making them less prone to mould and mildew – common issues in damp UK climates.
Preparing Your Front Door for Painting
Before applying your selected paint, preparation is key to achieving the best result. Here are some steps you should take to ensure your front door is ready for its Autumn makeover:
- Clean Thoroughly: Start by washing your door with mild soap and water to remove any dirt, dust, and grease that may be clinging to it. Rinse well and allow it to dry completely before moving on with the process.
- Sand if Necessary: If your door has an existing coat of paint that is flaking or peeling, sand the surface to create a smooth base for the new paint. Make sure to use fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the wood.
- Fill Gaps and Cracks: Inspect your door for any gaps and cracks and fill them in with a suitable filler. Once dried, sand smooth to ensure a seamless finish.
- Prime the Surface: If you are painting bare wood or switching from a dark to light colour (or vice versa), applying a primer can enhance adhesion and reduce the number of coats needed for full coverage.
- Invest in Quality Tools: Select good-quality brushes and rollers for a smooth finish. A foam roller can provide an even coat, while a brush can help with detailed areas.
MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR… GREGORY SMITH: “Gregory Smith has worked in the property and construction industry for over 20 years. He currently continues to work on domestic building projects while also providing expert comments in the property and construction field for PriceYourJob. He has worked with PriceYourJob for the past 4 years and has been published in a range of reputable publications.”
