Choosing exterior colors for your home is a major decision, so you want to get it right. It can be downright intimidating, so read on for some carefully considered steps that can help make the job easier.
Gather Ideas
Ride around your neighborhood and other neighborhoods that you admire. Consider the color combinations that appeal to you and record them as you begin to make your initial decision about exterior colors. Keep in mind that most homes incorporate three colors. The main color is the body or field (walls and large areas). Next is the trim (edges and boards around the doors and windows). Finally, there is the accent color (corner boards, shutters, doors). Using three colors depends on your vision for your home. You may opt for two colors If your home is brick or stone so that the overall effect is not too busy or overwhelming.
Consider existing elements that can’t be changed. Take a good look at your roof shingles. Choose harmonious colors. The same goes for brick. If your home is brick or has brick accents, these can’t be changed and will have an impact on the colors you select. Also, when you have a lot of shrubbery and landscaping, shades of green may make your house blend in rather than be the focal point.
Don’t get caught up in trends. Make sure you choose colors you love and will continue to love for the next 5 – 10 years because that is probably when you will be getting ready to repaint. Remember, you can choose a trendy or flashy color for the front door since that can be easily repainted. Also, use trendy colors for accent pieces in your yard and on your front porch.
Help is Here
Use a color visualizer. The internet is your friend! Tools, such as ColorSnap by Sherwin Williams, allow you to “try on” colors. You can even upload pictures of your home and “paint” them with colors you are considering. This is a worthwhile tool to help you get started with your decision but follow these next steps.
Get an on-line color consultation. You can book a free on-line color consultation with Sherwin Williams if you would like help in selecting the perfect color combination for your home.
Do some research. The internet is your friend. Read articles on recommendations from respected websites and designers such as The Spruce. Click here to see their take on 70 Exterior Paint Colors for a Better Looking Home.
Don’t rely solely on paint chips. When you have narrowed your decision down to one, two or three main colors, it is wise to get a small paint sample for each. You can’t get your money back once your paint has been mixed, so the good news is that most paint brands sell samples for about $7 and it is well worth the investment. Keep in mind that paint samples are generally low-grade interior latex paint (many without binding agents). They are not recommended for any use other than to determine your color choice.
Use pre-selected color palettes. So, you’ve finally decided on the color for the body of your house, but what about other details? Now that you’ve made your selection for the field or body of your home, investigate what colors have been pre-selected by designers. These palettes will specify compatible colors for the trim and accents. Websites, like HGTV.com and Pinterest, can be great resources for ideas and Sherwin Williams lets you select a basic color and then recommends complementary colors to go with the selected color. They also present interesting color combinations that you might not have thought of. You can use these ideas to help you make your final selections.
Now you are ready to confirm your color choices with ColaTown Painting! Sit back, relax and let the professionals help you create the home of your dreams.
Call or e-mail Britt today for your free estimate and consultation. 803-603-6486 or ellisb@colatownpainting.com
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