The new coffee blend you decide to try out may turn out to be a mistake, but it’s no great loss. However, if you choose exterior paint colors for your home that just don’t look very good, that’s a whole other story. There are some things to consider that can make you an expert at choosing exterior paints which can create an awe-inspiring look.
One secret to doing big projects right is to avoid rushing into anything. Take some time to think things through.
Overall Visual Effect
Consider the overall visual effect you would like to create, from street to landscape to exterior paint colors. If your house is somewhat obscured from the street view and if it sits back among a cluster of sprawling trees, a brighter or light color can help the home stand out. A dark hue, on the other hand, can cause a receding effect.
At Least Three Shades
You’ll want to pick at least three different exterior shades. A field color dominates, accent shades are applied to the shutters and doors, and colors for trim are used on exterior features such as door casings, railings, roof edging, and windows. The biggest contrast is ideally between the field color and the color of the trim. One dramatic effect is to paint the house a light shade and add dark trim. Be aware that bold accent colors such as red or blue may be perfect for the door but may not work as well on the shutters.
Test the Look
You would be ill-advised to choose your exterior paints based on nothing but paint chips. The paint can look significantly different once applied than it looks on the chip. One you’ve decided on colors that you think will be perfect, test them on an inconspicuous part of your home. Look at it in varying weather conditions, and notice how it looks in changing light. Taking this step is the best way to make certain you’ll likely be happy with your new exterior paint for many years.
Consider Interior-Exterior Harmony
Some design experts advise homeowners to choose interior and exterior paint colors which provide a sense of harmony, at least in the entryway of the home. There should be no great shock when entering a home caused by a stark difference between the outside and the inside shades. Instead, create a cohesive, pleasing transition.
Neighborhood Architecture
There’s a good chance that a homeowner’s association in your area will dictate to some extent the exterior paint colors you can choose. If you have complete freedom on choosing colors, it’s best to take the neighborhood as a whole into consideration. If the style you create clashes with the structures around your home, it detracts from the appearance of all of them.
Consider Masonry and the Roof
It’s important to consider features on your home which are already in place before choosing exterior shades. You don’t want the paint colors to clash with the roof, masonry, or railings.
Landscaping
Finally, consider the landscaping before you paint. The most beautiful homes are those which have the perfect landscaping accents to the exterior paint colors.
Contact our professionals today for help in choosing the type and color of paint that you need for your exterior and interior projects.
Frank Campanelli, the esteemed founder of Franklin Painting LLC, has been leading the company since 1986. He takes immense pride in the stellar reputation his dedicated team has built by consistently delivering top-notch service to each customer.
