Modernizing Our '50s Ranch: A Fresh Front Door Revamp
Upgrading Your Front Door: Key Reasons for the Change
Our Birmingham abode, a '50s ranch-style house, has seen better days - some aspects more charming than others. The front door didn't make my heart flutter upon first sight, boasting three petite, stacked glass panes, offering more style for a peek-a-boo game than practicality. After a two-year home improvement marathon, we decided it was time for an upgrade, and let me tell you, it's made all the difference. Here's why revamping your front door this spring is a worthwhile home exterior update.
9-Lite Door: A Timeless, Light-Infused Update
Two things were crucial when hunting for our new front door: a timeless design to level up our home's curb appeal and letting in more light into our living room (the room our door connects with).
Our heart skipped a beat for a 9-lite front door option - small, squared panes on the top half and solid wood on the bottom half. It provided us with the needed privacy while welcoming in the natural light we craved. Its design evoked the charm of a Dutch door but at a fraction of the cost, fitting perfectly with our one-level home's modest stature.
We anticipated a curb-appeal enhancement, but we underestimated the difference natural light would make in our living room. Since the revamp, our home's interior feels light, bright, and altogether more inviting than ever.
Budget-Friendly Makeover
A professional might've installed our door, but we kept the budget in check by purchasing a more affordable, unfinished slab door from Home Depot and painting it ourselves.
The color dilemma was real, with bolder options tempting me. However, practicality won with our chosen hue - Sherwin-Williams' Tricorn Black, SW 6258. The classic black complemented the existing black shutters and taupe-painted brick, deterring any potential domino home improvement effects.
Other Refresh Ideas for Your Front Door
Replacing the front door isn't always necessary - a fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective solution. Inject some life into your exterior with a vibrant hue that inserts personality without breaking the bank.
A quick hardware swap can also work wonders for your home's first impression. We replaced our door's standard knob with an antique brass lever handle and deadbolt combo, infusing a touch of character.
Spring: The Perfect Time for a Transformation
Weather is crucial to a seamless front door project. Opt for mild spring days to avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, ensuring a stress-free update for your home's exterior beauty. Bloom season is the best time to put your home's best foot forward!
[1] "9-Lite vs. 6-Lite Entry Doors: Which One is Right for You?" HGTV. https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoors/yards/9-lite-vs-6-lite-entry-doors-which-one-is-right-for-you
[2] "The Benefits of Low-E Glass." Energy Star. https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/insiding-energy-efficiency/windows_doors/the-benefits-of-low-e-glass
[3] "9-Lite vs. Flush Doors: Choosing the Best Front Door". Bob Vila. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/9-lite-vs-flush-doors/
[4] "Guide to Exterior Paint Colors: Front Door Paint Ideas". The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/front-door-paint-colors-1000645
[5] "What are the benefits of a fiberglass door?" ImproveNet. https://www.improvenet.com/r/benefits-fiberglass-door/
- The home's original front door, a three-pane stacked glass design, was improved with a 9-lite door, enhancing the house's curb appeal and bringing in more light into the living room.
- To keep costs manageable, we opted for a more affordable unfinished slab door from Home Depot, which we painted in Sherwin-Williams' Tricorn Black (SW 6258).
- For those who prefer a budget-friendly update, consider a fresh coat of paint on your front door, choosing a vibrant color to inject personality without breaking the bank.
- For a transformation that captures attention, replace standard door hardware with antique brass lever handles and deadbolts, adding character to the house's facade.
