Enhancing Your Entryway

Updating the entryway of your home is one of the easiest and impactful do-it-yourself home improvement projects you can complete in very little time. If your entryway is bare and boring, enhance it by simply adding decorative address numbers, a doormat, plants, door accessories, or new exterior lighting.

Consult the experts at your local True Value hardware store for advice and products you need and follow these easy do-it-yourself steps.

Step 1. Change Address Numbers 
Updating address numbers at your front door will add a warm touch to your home and entryways. Look for a kit that includes adhesive (or nails) and address numbers for simple installation. You will just need a hammer, screwdriver and cloth to wipe down the area before and after installation.

• Make sure to install address numbers in a well-lit, visible area to make it easy for guests and emergency or delivery vehicles to find your home. Reflective address numbers can improve visibility as well.

Step 2. Add a Doormat
Replace a worn or nondescript doormat with a new doormat to warmly greet guests. Make sure it's made of weather-resistant material, such as heavy rubber, straw or wood. Choose something dark in color to hide dirt and wear. Consider replacing the doormat once a year to keep your entryway fresh and tidy.

Step 3. Add Flowers or Plants 
Add flowerpots, shrubs, topiaries or other plants to add life to your entryway. Incorporating unique containers and plants of varying heights will add visual interest to your front door. You will need planting pots, soil, diluted plant food and a variety of flowers or plants.

• Container gardens require additional watering, so make sure to water your plants when the soil feels dry to the touch.

< back to top

Step 4. Add Door Accessories 
The front door is often the first thing people notice about your entryway so make their first impression a great one. Make an instantaneous, do-it-yourself improvement to your front door by installing a door knocker and kickplate for visual appeal and practicality. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions- all you need is a tape measure, screwdriver and drill.

Step 5. Install Lighting 
Add decorative exterior lighting to illuminate the entryway and add style to your home. There are a variety of easy-to-install light fixtures available in many designs, from contemporary to traditional. To light the pathway to your front porch, consider adding solar outdoor lighting. They are safe and simple to install.

• For extra security, consider getting motion-detecting exterior lighting or those that automatically turn on at dusk.

Not too much effort for an attractive do-it-yourself home improvement! Now step back and admire your new entryway, and get ready for company.

For more projects, go to TrueValue.com. >

< back to top

print project | email