The Simple Swap That'll Give Your Front Door A Stylish Upgrade Without Any Paint

A boring front door just won't do. Your front door gives you a chance to make a good first impression on guests, set the tone for your home, and boost your curb appeal. The go-to suggestion for updating your entrance is paint, but the door painting process is time-consuming if you do it yourself and expensive if you hire out the work. Maybe you already love the color of your front door, but you want to give it a little more pizzazz. Or perhaps you're a renter and you're not allowed to paint your entryway. An easier way to upgrade your front door without paint is by replacing the hardware with decorative options and adding extra hardware detailing.

Choosing the right exterior hardware for your front door includes many considerations, like installation, maintenance, cost, and safety features. Door hardware comes in a wide range of styles and prices, so you can customize the project to fit your budget and design preferences. The hardware you choose is your chance to show your personality. Unique front door hardware makes your home stand out against all of the other homes on the block with standard, builder-grade knobs and deadbolts. Choosing decorative options that stand out give your door a completely new look without you having to pick up a paintbrush. 

Think of your door's hardware as the icing on the cake. It's what sets the door apart, regardless of the background color. Swapping out your door knob can be a quick update if your current hardware is worn, dented, or damaged in any way. Even if you replace it with something similar, you get a fresh, updated look. You can typically replace your outdated door knobs yourself, which makes this upgrade a quick, cost-effective option.

If you want to make a big impression, look for a door handle and lock set that's bigger and bolder than what you already have. Standard door knobs are often small and plain. Instead, go for a larger lever-style or handleset to make the hardware stand out from a distance. The knob and any other hardware should be proportional to the door, so don't go overboard on the size if you have a standard front door. You can find new hardware sets with the latest security features that are designed to look vintage, mid-century modern, contemporary, or any other style.

Your current door hinges might work just fine, but consider adding decorative dummy hinges as well to incorporate more details on the door. Sometimes called strap hinges, these hardware options often have an old-world look. They come in a variety of metals, finishes, and shapes. The oversized, exposed hinge look is another way to draw the eye to your front door.

Now that you've replaced the existing hardware, consider adding new features to create a show-stopping front door design. Door knockers often have a traditional feel, but you can find them in all types of designs, from fun, unique animal heads to sleek, modern shapes. Typically mounted about 5 feet off the ground, door knockers draw attention because they're roughly at eye level.

Another piece of hardware you can add for extra detailing is a kick plate. It's usually a rectangular panel of metal that's attached at the bottom of the door. The idea is to protect the door if you kick it or push it open with your foot. However, it also creates contrast, which can improve curb appeal, and adds visual interest to the door, especially when the finish matches the other hardware.

You can also add your street address to your door to creatively display house numbers. Large numbers stand out the most against your door, making them more visible from the road. Consider the font or design of the numbers, whether you go with simple lines for a modern look or ornate characters for a traditional vibe. You can place the numbers vertically or horizontally, depending on your preferred look. Another option is using a wood panel that displays the numbers and attaching it to your front door. You can find a wide range of house number products that can be secured to the door to set your house apart. Or spell out your address numbers with letters for a departure from the usual numerical symbols.