You may have color schemes and shades you like but when it comes to exterior paint you need to consider many factors that do not affect interior paint. Choosing the right paint color for your exterior paint project is a big project but we have expert knowledge that can help simplify this process. The color scheme, budget and paint type all affect the color options you will want to consider. Beyond the paint type you will also need to consider the external structure of the home and the feeling you are looking to convey with your paint scheme.
We have compiled some tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect paint color for your exterior painting project. There are a lot of different factors that are important to consider ranging from existing color to materials and more
First and foremost you will need to consider what colors are already in use. Considering your interior colors is just as important as considering any colors you have outside. Consider your fence, concrete and other features when choosing your exterior paint color. You will also want to consider the houses around yours and if there is an established color scheme. Muted colors are ideal for exterior paint, bright colors look unnatural when used on exteriors. Colors are magnified by the sunlight and bright colors can look even brighter when used on the exterior of your home. If you like a brighter color you can still get a similar shade by stepping the color down two scales. This calms the color down while still offering a similar hue.
Next, consider the materials and features of your home’s exterior. When choosing your exterior paint color you will want to consider all the features of your home including doors, Window frames,fascia and trim, porches, shutters and more. A wooden front door may need a different shade to look conducive than a painted front door. Consider the whole picture, not just the color you like best. Materials also affect how your paint will look. Brick work, stone and roof color all have an impact on how your paint will look when completed. Choosing a color that compliments your existing materials is ideal for creating a finished product you love. Make a list of all the materials your paint needs to match before heading to the paint store. Also consider how your paint will look on stucco be siding to ensure the finished product is what you are looking for.
Consider what parts of your hole you cannot change. Roofing, bricks and other permanent features will need to be part of your color selection process if you want the final product to look well thought out. Most homes have a design element like a stone or brick facade and stone and brick are important to consider because they are very challenging to change. These areas limit your paint selection some because you need to compliment those materials. One great way to form a cohesive look for your exterior is to choose one of the undertones of your existing rock or brick.
Color considerations are a vital part of your exterior paint choices. These strategies apply to new construction, repaints, renovations and any other time you are painting. First you need to choose the “field” color of the main color that will be used for the largest areas of your house on the siding or the stucco. This color is generally a neutral color and makes up the vast majority of your color palette. Next you need to choose a trim or secondary color. This color is used on trim, overhangs, outside ceilings, railings and any of other trim areas. This color really sets the style of your home and if your home is a specific architectural style you want to consider specific colors for your trim. You can choose either a lighter or darker trim to compliment the field color. Finally you need to choose an accent color. Accent colors are only used for a pop of color on shutters, doors or other accents like flower boxes. This color can be bright and fun and sets the design style of your home.
Additionally, consider the location of your home. If you live in a historic district or an HOA you may be limited on color choices. These may seem like silly rules to consider and adhere too but it really is essential. Always check with your HOA prior to painting your home.
When doing exterior painting always do a swatch. Swatches make a huge difference in choosing a color you are happy with. It can be hard to imagine the color without painting a small sample. The texture of the surface can impact how a color looks. Samples or paint chips don’t always replicate the color perfectly so a swatch is ideal.
In our expert opinion warm colors make the most ideal exterior paint colors. Warm colors fare well in natural sunlight. We recommend testing multiple color samples to ensure you made a selection that looks good and will capture your vision beautifully. Try and sample your paint colors near other elements like rocks or bricks to make sure the undertones compliment each other well. Choosing an exterior paint color is only half the project, now it’s time to actually paint. Roe Paint is happy to help with your exterior painting project. Exterior painting takes a lot of prep and time. Roe paint has the equipment and know how to get the project done quickly and with beautiful finished results.
