If you’re looking to add charm and personality to your home, a door overhang could be the way to do it. A door overhang is a small awning or cover that hangs over your door, protecting it from the elements. A door overhang will extend the life of your door, while helping your home make a good first impression.
Your door is one of the first things that your guests will see, so adding a feature like a door overhang will undoubtedly up your curb appeal. It will keep your guests out of the sun or rain while they ring the doorbell and it will keep you protected while you look for your keys! Here are 5 steps to follow to add a door overhang!
1. Colour Coordinate
Just like any other element on your home exterior, the colour of your door overhang should complement the colours of your home. Some homeowners choose a door overhang in the same colour as their door, while others opt for a contrasting yet complementary colour such as a white awning over a black door. Take into consideration the colour of your siding, windows, door and trim to find the perfect shade for your overhang.
2. Consider Weather
Door overhangs aren’t just there to look pretty- they also protect your door from harsh elements like wind and rain. Some areas are more prone to harsh weather, while others enjoy rays of sun. When you’re deciding on the type of door overhang you want, make sure to factor in the weather in your location. If you get a lot of rain, you’ll want a sturdy overhang that directs water away from you while you’re standing underneath it.
3. Lighting
A door overhang will darken your front entry area, so you’ll need to add in lighting. Install a fixture on the ceiling of the overhang, or you can place a pair of lights on the wall of the house under the overhang. One of the benefits of a door overhang is to make your home feel warm and inviting, and an unlit entry, especially at night, can be the exact opposite, so make sure lighting tops your list of priorities!
4. Pick Your Material
Another important factor to consider with your door overhang is the material of the awning or cover. You don’t want it to be a material that’s too heavy. A heavy-looking steel door overhang that looks like it would do some damage if it fell won’t be welcoming to your guests. Instead, opt for a wood, fiberglass or vinyl for a more welcoming look. Make sure whatever material you use is water resistant and UV resistance so it can perform its job well!
5. Choose Your Design
Now comes the fun part! Once you’ve decided on all the functional elements of your door overhang, you can choose its design. Door overhangs come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s up to you what you want for your home. Choose from options like a small or large gable, a shed-roofed entry, a small L shaped cover, and more. The perfect awning for your home will depend on the size of your house and the main function you want the overhang to take on.
A door overhang is a great way to add personality to your home! Use these five tips to choose the perfect door overhang for you!