Pumpkin spice season has officially arrived, and so has the perfect excuse to give your windows and doors a festive refresh. Whether you’re aiming for haunted house spook or harvest chic, we’ve gathered easy and creative ways to make your home’s exterior shine this fall.
Not only are these DIY ideas sure to add fun to this time of year, but they’re also designed to complement energy-efficient features like Gravina’s® high-performance windows and bold entry doors. Ready to impress your neighbors and trick-or-treaters alike? Let’s decorate.
Window Décor Ideas for Fall & Halloween
- Leaf & Marigold Garland Frames
Create a warm, welcoming window frame with garlands made of faux fall leaves, orange marigolds (fresh or artificial), twine, and mini clothespins. Marigolds provide a vibrant nod to Día de los Muertos traditions, while autumn leaves bring a calming color pattern.
This combo looks especially striking on Gravina’s® low-E windows, which reflect heat while letting natural light and bold fall colors shine through, showcasing your seasonal flair without compromising energy efficiency.
Tip: Use removable adhesive hooks to secure the garland without damaging your frames.
- Ghostly Silhouettes
Use black cardstock, paper, or removable vinyl to cut out ghost, bat, or witch shapes and place them inside your windows. For a spooky scene at night, incorporate battery-powered lights behind the cutouts. With energy-efficient windows, your scene will be well-lit without letting in excessive warmth.
Want some more window decorating inspiration? Here’s a tutorial on how to make a standout paper decoration.
- Pumpkin Patch Windowsill
Set mini pumpkins, gourds, or lanterns along your interior windowsills. Pair with burlap runners and cinnamon sticks, which will make for a warm autumn scent on mild October days when you have your windows cracked.
Bring in a few LED tealights for an evening ambiance, or a candle with a seasonal scent for a charming indoor view.
- Chalk Marker & DIY Window Paint Scenes
Infuse some personality into your windows with your family’s unique fall-themed doodles or spooky sketches. Chalk markers are excellent for drawing leaves, spiderwebs, or ghosts directly on the glass, and they wipe off easily when you’re ready for a refresh.
Want to go full DIY with your window paint? Mix:
- One cup water
- One cup dish soap
- One cup flour or cornstarch
- Then stir in food coloring to create custom colors. It’s a kid-friendly craft that looks beautiful and works best on Gravina’s® high-clarity glass. Cleanup is easy — the paint wipes right off when it’s time for a new design.
Can’t think of what to paint? Here is a list of ideas to spark some window painting ideas from Real Homes.
- Spooky Stickers for the Kids
Let the kids join in and hand over the Halloween creativity to your little ghouls. Static-cling window decals are easy to apply, remove, and peel off, making them mess-free. Ideal for picture windows or high-traffic glass doors.
Door & Porch Décor Ideas That Make a Statement
- Fall Foliage Wreath with a Twist
Skip the standard circular wreath and try a crescent-style version instead. Use eucalyptus, dried citrus, mini pumpkins, and pinecones to create a natural, asymmetrical look. These modern wreaths complement bold Gravina’s® entry doors — especially styles with glass inserts or vibrant paint.
- Hay Bale Porch Setup
Stack one or two hay bales with pumpkins, mums, and lanterns for that classic fall farmhouse look. It’s an easy way to frame your front door and set the tone for guests. Want to upgrade your entrance altogether? Explore Gravina’s® premium replacement doors built for beauty and performance.
3. DIY Chalkboard Door Sign
Turn an old picture frame or wooden slice into a reusable sign with chalkboard paint. Add a cheeky fall pun (“Hey, Pumpkin!” or “Boo Y’all”) and for a finishing touch, hang it with a seasonal ribbon. This is an ideal decoration for storm doors or entryway walls.
- Light It Up
Use warm-toned string lights or orange fairy lights in orange, amber, or warm white to outline your doorframe or windows. These will draw attention to architectural details, especially to bold or bright-colored frames. You’ll see a magical glow complement your nighttime curb appeal, drawing attention to your home’s architecture. This effect works exceptionally well with darker-trimmed windows or statement doors.
- Floating Witch Hats
Hang lightweight witch hats from your porch ceiling using a fishing line and small hooks. Want a little extra flair? Mix in glow sticks and hay inside with some clear tape at the bottom. For additional eye-catching whimsy, add fringe ribbons to the hats so they twirl gently in the wind for a bewitching nighttime effect.
These ideas are perfect from early October through Halloween—or with some minor swaps, even into Thanksgiving.
Upgrade the Canvas Before You Decorate
Your fall DIY projects shine even brighter when your home’s bones are in good shape. If your windows are drafty or cloudy, or if your front door is sticking as temperatures change, it may be time for an upgrade. Not sure what to look for? Check out our blog, “Clean, Inspect, Protect: Your Colorado Fall Checklist.” It provides a detailed list of what to inspect, as well as indicators that signal the need for upgrades.
Gravina’s® offers professionally installed windows and doors that combine beauty, energy efficiency, and lasting performance. You can focus on fun seasonal touches; we’ll take care of the home upgrades. Book a free consultation today and give your fall decor the frame it deserves.
