Dulux's DIY Front Door Project

First impressions count so what better way to make a bold statement than with a grand entrance to your home. Adding a dash of colour to your front door and porch accessories is a simple way to wow your guests by creating an inviting atmosphere.

Dulux Colour Expert, Andrea Lucena-Orr says you can be playful with colour choice when selecting the colours for your front door and accessories, as they can remarkably impact and positively change the look and feel of your home.

"Working tonally with blacks and greys on doors against contrasting whites can animate the home in a classic and elegant way. To add a sophisticated highlight to this monochromatic scheme, include a green, such an emerald coloured bench or potted plants on the porch," she says.

"For a trends-driven look, try apricot or terracotta coloured accents on the door and verandah accessories against a predominantly white exterior with black or charcoal trims. At dusk, the soft sunlight can create a metallic-like effect with some tan and apricot tones, which can add another layer of depth and dimension to the scheme."

Contrasting colours or colours working tonally can play an integral role in the balance of your home's exterior. Start by selecting your door colour, then introduce a range of accessories in complementary colours – such as a door-mat, potted or hanging plants, seating, lighting and wall hangings.

"Paint is a powerful tool – and one that's surprisingly addictive," says Lucena-Orr. "Once you start experimenting with colour, you'll find you can never go back. And best of all, you can easily change the exterior accent colours down the track when you feel like something new."

Here are some simple DIY projects you can try this weekend to help freshen up your home's exterior.

Front Door
1: Gather your painting supplies – Dulux Aquanamel in your chosen colour(s), Dulux 1Step Prep, drop sheet, high quality synthetic brush for cutting in, short nap (5-10mm) roller, roller tray, 400 grit sandpaper, painter's tape, old cloths.
2: After sanding down the surface, apply one coat of Dulux 1Step Prep.
3: Commence painting by cutting in around the edges of the door using Dulux Aquanamel.
4: Apply Dulux Aquanamel to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.
5: Once you've completed an area, while the paint is still wet, lightly smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes – but, don't overdo or reload the brush – a few brush strokes will smooth the surface.
6: Use a paint roller for the broad section of the door. Allow 2 hours to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper.
7: Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the second coat.

Pot and Pot Stand
1: Prep the pot for painting by sanding to remove old flaky paint and mould. Follow the can instructions for further information.
2: Select your preferred Duramax Dulux colour and apply in multiple light, mist coats.
3: Enjoy your transformation!

Bench Seat

1: Ensure the surface has been properly prepared prior to starting to paint.
Follow the label on the can for more information. 2: Commence painting by cutting in around the edges of the furniture piece.
3: Apply Dulux Aquanamel to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.
4: Once you've completed an area, while the paint is still wet, lightly smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes – but, don't overdo or reload the brush – a few brush strokes will smooth the surface.
5: Allow 2 hours to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper.
6: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the second coat.

Dulux Weathershield
Tested for over 40 years in Australian conditions, Dulux Weathershield will protect your home for as long as you live there. Designed to withstand all weather from extreme heat to heavy rain, Dulux Weathershield also prevents UV damage and resists mould and stains

Dulux Aquanamel
A water-based interior and exterior acrylic enamel, Dulux Aquanamel doesn't yellow over time, is fastdrying, low odour and achieves an ultra-smooth and tough finish that resists chipping.

Dulux Duramax
A high-performance enamel that delivers superior coverage, Dulux Duramax spray paint has an innovative rapid dry formulation ensuring the coating is touch dry in 20 minutes and ready to use in an hour.