Front Door Make-Over

A front entryway gets a fresh new look with a front door makeover. Try more high-speed projects with host Steve Watson from Don't Sweat It.

Don't Sweat It : Episode HDSWT-313 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Before
PHOTO

After
Materials and tools:

mail slot
wrought iron wall sconce (2)
house numbers
metal handrail (20 linear feet)
metal spindle stock (40)
metal posts (4)
welder and welding helmet/gloves
grinder
flapwheel for grinder
hammer drill
jig saw
metal chop saw
orbital sander
cordless drill with battery and magnetic screw tip
measuring tape
paint scrapers
painting supplies
safety glasses

Steps:

Remove door. It will be easier to work on and refinish the door with it removed. Simplyunscrew the hinges from the door. Place the door on sawhorses to make it easier to work.

Remove old paint. Scrape all the loose paint off the door. Sand the door smooth. You don't have to get to bare wood, just
get it smooth.

Create mail slot. Cut a 2-1/4" x 11" hole in the center of the door for the mail slot.

Prime and paint the door.

Install the mail slot. Secure the mail slot frame place with screws.

Create the hand rail.

  • Remove the old handrail and use it to make a template for the new one. Cut off the handrail at the concrete and place on a scrap sheet of plywood.
  • Trace it out and tack down wood blocks to space the metal pieces where they should go.
  • Cut all the metal to fit your template, and set into place. Weld it together.
  • Install the handrail by tracing the base plates on the concrete, and drilling out for the anchors using thehammer drill. Place and tighten the anchors.
  • Prime and paint.