If you’re planning a spring or summertime exterior repaint, this is a huge opportunity! Take your time and make the most of it. After all, when it comes to the curb appeal and long-term value of your home here in the tri-state area, few updates have more immediate impact than a fresh coat of paint.
But don’t let that stress you out. Exterior painting can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re partnered with a professional painting contractor to ensure the total success of your project.
Today, let’s chat through some practical answers to a very fundamental question: what color should you paint your house? You can absolutely rely on what’s trending, or lean on the advice of a professional colorist, but we have a few simple ideas to add to the mix as well.
Ready? Let’s go.
Consider the Architecture of Your Home
One of the first things to consider when choosing paint colors for your home’s exterior is simply its architecture. The style of your home can help you determine which colors will look best, giving you a range of style-specific color ideas, or guidelines. For example, if you have a Victorian-style home, you might want to choose bold, rich colors like deep reds or blues. If you have a more modern home, you might opt for neutral colors like whites, grays, or beiges.
Look at the Surrounding Area
Another important factor to consider is the surrounding area. Take a look at the landscaping, the neighborhood, and the natural surroundings. You want to choose colors that will complement the environment around your home. For example, if you live in a wooded area, you might want to choose earthy tones like browns and greens.
Think About the Weather
The tri-state area is known for its more extreme seasonal weather, so it’s important to choose paint colors that can hold up against the elements. Lighter colors tend to reflect heat and sunlight, keeping your home cooler in the summer months. On the other hand, darker colors tend to absorb heat, which can make your home feel warmer. Keep this in mind when choosing your colors.
Test the Colors
Before committing to a color, it’s a good idea to test it out first. Most suppliers offer small sample sizes of paint that you can use to paint a small area of your home’s exterior. This will give you a better idea of how the color will look in different lighting conditions. Definitely don’t rely on paint swatches alone! They’re a good starting point, but then you need to apply samples of your favorite colors to give you a better sense of what it will actually look like in place.
Choose the Right Color Scheme
Once you’ve considered the above factors, it’s time to choose your color scheme. You’ll want to choose three colors: a main color for the body of your home, a contrasting color for the trim, and an accent color for the doors and shutters. You can use different shades of the same color or choose complementary colors to create a cohesive look.
Consider the Popular Exterior Paint Colors for 2023
Don’t feel like you’re stuck with what’s trending – choose a color you love and can live with every day. But if you DO need a little inspiration and are wondering what’s hot for exterior paint colors in 2023, here’s a quick summary.
One of the most popular exterior color trends is a return to earthy, natural hues like olive green, warm beige, and terracotta. These colors work well with a variety of architectural styles and can create a warm and welcoming look. Another trending color for 2023 is muted shades of blue, such as powder blue or slate blue. These colors create a calming and serene atmosphere, and work especially well for homes located near bodies of water.
Fun Fact!
Did you know that the color of your home’s exterior can have an impact on its resale value? According to a recent study, homes painted in shades of blue, gray, or taupe can sell for up to $6,000 more than homes painted in other colors. On the other hand, homes painted in darker colors like red or brown can sell for up to $2,000 less than homes painted in lighter colors. So, not only can choosing the right exterior paint colors make your home look great, but it can also have a positive impact on its value.
FAQs
Q: What if I want to use a bold color?
A: Bold colors can be a great way to make a statement, but it’s important to use them sparingly. Consider using bold colors as an accent rather than the main color.
Q: Should I paint my front door a different color?
A: Yes, painting your front door a different color can add visual interest to your home’s exterior. Choose a color that complements the rest of your color scheme.
Q: Can I use more than three colors?
A: While you can use more than three colors, it’s best to stick to a maximum of five to avoid creating a “busy” look.
Is choosing the right exterior house paint color challenging? It can be, but it’s worth the effort to create a beautiful and inviting home. As we mentioned above, have fun with it too, and be sure to partner with a professional painting company that really gets your goals and can help turn your vision into a reality. Don’t settle for anything less.
If you have questions for our team here at A.G. Williams Painting Company, be sure to reach out. We’d love to talk with you in more detail.