Let’s add some color to these doors! I’ll show you exactly how I painted the exterior doors on our back lanai step by step. Painting doors is such an easy way to give your home an upgraded, custom look. And this pop of green looks so pretty complementing all the trees around the pool.

Thank you to KILZ® for sponsoring this post. All content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Let’s take a look at the before. We were so fortunate to get new doors and windows last year. It’s nerve-wracking to live Southwest Florida have thin, old windows with no hurricane shutters. We are SO grateful.

These came with a strange finish that blended right into our house color so I knew I wanted to paint them. There are three doors that lead to the lanai (plus a sliding door).

And now for the after!

How to paint doors

1. First I cleaned the doors the doors and door windows.

2. Tape off windows.

One tip is to cut the tape for a straight edge. (See, I do use tape sometimes!)

3. Apply primer in thin strokes in the same direction.

Primer is the most important step though because without it the paint will scratch. I’m using KILZ® 3 Premium Primer because it is heavy duty and mildew resistant to protect against three kiddos and humid Florida weather.

I like an artist’s brush to get around small details.

It’s handy to have baby wipe on hand. If you accidentally drip or paint outside the lines you can wipe it right up.

4. Paint on the color!

I’m using Magnolia Green from Joanna Gaines’ paint line by KILZ®. I chose the trim, cabinetry and door paint in semi-gloss.

It only took two layers of paint to finish this project and look how little it took! After all these years of painting I’ve found it worth it to spend the little bit extra to get quality paint that coats evenly and is more durable. What else needs to be Magnolia Green? I have a dresser in mind.

One more tip for today. Take the tape off when the paint is still wet to avoid stripping clumps of paint off. Pull taut and go slow. You can take any paint that bled over off with a razor blade.

I’m enjoying slowly adding details and personality to this house. What’s on your list to paint?

Every project is worth using KILZ® Primer. Check out www.kilz.com/primer!