OPEN AND SHUT CASE
As a general rule, try to match your doors and windows to the age and style of your property. If you do this, then you can be adventurous with the shade you paint them. Some listed properties, conservation areas or estate cottages have strict guidelines on colours, too, so make sure you investigate if this is a possibility. Historic houses often look better decorated with period paints, and a number of companies stock accurate shades, which can make your decision easier.
Above all, use a colour for exterior woodwork that suits the materials of your home such as the stone or brick. For example, the warm honey-coloured hues of Cotswold stone work really well with cool grey-greens and greyblues, while red stocks suit similar cool tones such as blue-greys or stronger greens, and most materials will look good with smart black or white. Consider door furniture in much the same way, and choose pieces that suit your property, its style and age. However, a bold colour choice – one that you might not consider using indoors – can be effective, especially in outdoor light, which can have a softening effect on many colours. Your front garden and its planting should also play a part in your decision, taking into consideration seasonal changes, plus the wider landscape and neighbouring properties.
Solid wood doors, however, are expensive and require regular care and repainting, and this can be exacerbated in exposed or coastal sites. However, UPVC or composite materials, such as those made by Everest, are more stable and require far less maintenance (never needing to be repainted or stained), can be made more secure, plus are much cheaper to purchase than solid wood or bespoke pieces (UPVC is obviously not as sustainable or ecologically sound, though). Designs and styles are currently improving, so source a door that is authentic to your property and pay attention to the number and proportion of details, such as the glazing bars. Make sure your supplier is a member of FENSA (Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme Registered).
Choose a colour for exterior woodwork that suits the materials of your home