7 rules designers always follow to find the best exterior paint for your home

Choosing the right exterior paint color for a home is a significant design decision, often considered the largest aesthetic choice a homeowner makes. Unlike interior spaces where personal tastes can be more freely expressed, exterior colors are a public statement and can affect the neighborhood's overall appeal. The article emphasizes the importance of selecting colors that are harmonious with the surroundings and the architectural style of the house. Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams, advises homeowners to exercise restraint when selecting exterior colors. She notes that while individuals can experiment with vibrant hues like fuchsia and lime indoors, exterior palettes should be more subdued and considerate of the community. Paint companies typically offer distinct color categories for interior and exterior use, with exterior options being generally tamer to encourage aesthetic cohesion within neighborhoods. The article humorously suggests that if certain bold color choices were made, it might be beneficial to discreetly inform those homeowners about the impact of their selections. The timing for painting is also highlighted, with warm Indian summer days in early autumn identified as an ideal period for exterior painting projects. To guide homeowners through the selection process, Jordan provides six key considerations. These factors aim to ensure that the chosen paint color enhances the home's appearance and integrates well with its environment. The first consideration is the home's architecture, which dictates appropriate historical or stylistic color schemes. The second is the surrounding landscape, including natural elements like trees and gardens, which should complement the paint color. The third factor involves the neighboring homes; selecting a color that harmonizes with adjacent properties contributes to neighborhood unity. The fourth point focuses on existing house components that will not be painted, such as brickwork, roofing, and stone. These elements have fixed colors that must be taken into account to create a cohesive look. The fifth tip concerns the trim and accent colors, which should be carefully chosen to highlight architectural features and provide contrast without clashing. Finally, the article advises considering current trends in exterior paint colors, although always within the context of the other five considerations to ensure a timeless appeal rather than a fleeting fad. To assist homeowners further, Sherwin-Williams offers a digital tool called the ColorSnap app. This application allows users to upload a photo of their home and virtually apply different paint colors, providing a visual preview of how the chosen hues will appear before committing to a purchase. This technology helps alleviate some of the anxiety associated with such a significant home improvement decision, enabling more informed and confident color choices. #HomeImprovement #ExteriorPaint #ColorSelection #HouseDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #LandscapeIntegration #NeighborhoodHarmony #SherwinWilliams

The article discusses essential considerations for exterior home painting, particularly focusing on the challenges presented by New Orleans' climate. It highlights that the hot sun and humid, storm-prone weather of New Orleans necessitate robust exterior paint protection. Experts from local painting companies, Adam Broussard of That 1 Painter New Orleans and Brett Larrabee of Richard’s Painting of New Orleans, provide insights into when a home needs repainting, the importance of proper preparation, choosing the right paint products, and selecting a reputable contractor. Signs indicating a need for repainting include loss of vibrancy, mildew, chalky residue, water stains, and peeling or cracking paint. Broussard emphasizes that these signs suggest the paint's protective barrier has deteriorated, leaving the home vulnerable to the elements. The frequency of repainting can vary from five to twelve years, depending on the quality of the previous job, sun exposure, and proximity to salty air. Larrabee warns against opting for low-bidding contractors, as their work often requires early re-dos due to substandard paint, insufficient coats, or inadequate surface preparation. Preparation is a critical step, involving power-washing or soft-washing to remove mildew, dirt, and algae, which erode paint over time. Damaged areas, such as cracked wood, loose or peeling paint, and loose caulk, must be addressed. Priming new or repaired wood is crucial for proper paint adhesion and a smooth finish. Homeowners are advised to decide on the scope of work (full refresh, resale prep, or problem area repair) and obtain detailed, written estimates that outline the scope, preparation, paint type, and number of coats. Some painting companies are licensed contractors, allowing them to perform necessary repairs during the preparation phase. Regarding paint selection, Larrabee recommends always asking for premium paint and ensuring the product is appropriate for the specific surface, whether wood, stucco, or brick. Broussard suggests high-quality acrylic latex paints for general exteriors due to their breathability, mildew resistance, and flexibility, which are ideal for New Orleans' climate. For stucco or masonry, elastomeric paint is recommended for its ability to bridge hairline cracks. For older or historic brick homes, mineral paint is preferred as it allows the brick to breathe, bonds well, and ages gracefully without compromising material integrity. Experts universally agree that while lower-cost paints may seem attractive, they often require more coats and frequent touch-ups, making premium products a better investment in the long run. If an estimate appears too low, it likely indicates a contractor cutting corners on preparation or paint quality. Selecting the right contractor involves researching their experience, portfolio, and customer recommendations, as well as verifying their licenses and insurance. An exterior paint job for a typical home can range from $8,000 to $25,000, and the duration of the project can be three to seven days, extending to several weeks for historic homes or those requiring significant repairs. Spring and fall are considered ideal seasons for repainting in New Orleans due to lower humidity and moderate temperatures, although painting can be done year-round. Ultimately, choosing a professional service provides peace of mind, ensuring protection and longevity for the home's exterior. #ExteriorPainting #HomeMaintenance #NewOrleans #PaintSelection #ContractorTips #HomeImprovement #ClimateConsiderations #CurbAppeal

Choosing an exterior paint color for a home is a significant decision, impacting curb appeal and long-term aesthetic. Unlike interior paint, exterior choices are a more permanent commitment, necessitating careful consideration of several factors. Interior designers emphasize the importance of blending personal preference with environmental and architectural elements to achieve a cohesive and appealing result. This process involves analyzing the surrounding environment, harmonizing with interior design, and adhering to architectural styles, among other practical tips. One crucial tip is to observe neighboring houses. This assessment helps determine if the homeowner wishes to integrate with the existing neighborhood palette or create a distinct statement. For instance, in a neighborhood dominated by white and gray homes, a navy blue exterior could offer a striking contrast. Concurrently, the exterior color should ideally complement the home's interior. A cohesive color narrative between the inside and outside of the home creates a more harmonious and welcoming impression, as the exterior color often sets the initial tone for the entire property. Testing color swatches is an indispensable step before finalizing an exterior paint choice. Exterior lighting conditions can significantly alter how a color appears, often making it seem lighter than anticipated when applied to the entire structure. Therefore, applying test swatches and observing them throughout the day under varying light conditions is essential. Creating a digital or physical mockup also allows for better visualization of the chosen palette, enabling adjustments before the full application, thus preventing costly and time-consuming rework. Developing a comprehensive color palette involves selecting a dominant color for the main walls, a contrasting or complementary shade for trims like windows and doors, and an accent color for specific architectural details such as shutters or porch ceilings. The chosen colors should also integrate well with the existing roof color and style. For those undertaking new constructions or major renovations, architects and interior designers can provide valuable guidance in developing harmonious color schemes. Numerous online resources also offer suggested color pairings for DIY enthusiasts. The architectural style of the home plays a significant role in guiding color selection. Traditional homes, such as Colonial styles, often benefit from classic combinations like white walls with black shutters and a red front door. Modern homes with clean lines might opt for a minimalist approach with one or two colors, while ornate Victorian houses can accommodate a broader spectrum of complementary or contrasting shades, though it is generally advisable to limit the palette to a maximum of three different colors to avoid an overly busy appearance. Environmental factors are equally important. Examining the surrounding landscape helps determine whether the home's exterior should blend into nature or stand out. For example, a house in a desert environment might suit a creamy sand color, while a mountain cabin could benefit from a rich black that complements the surrounding woods. Local climate considerations include opting for darker colors in cooler regions for heat absorption or lighter colors in warmer climates to reflect heat, potentially saving on energy costs. Additionally, specific paint types, such as mildew-resistant options for humid areas or rain-resistant paints for regions with heavy precipitation, should be considered. While trends can be tempting, selecting timeless colors ensures the exterior remains appealing over many years. White, light gray, beige, khaki, navy blue, and various earth tones are examples of colors that consistently withstand changing trends. Finally, the home's construction materials must be factored into the decision. Different materials, such as brick or stone, pair better with certain paint colors. Off-white and warm gray can enhance red brick, while black, white, and dark navy complement stone, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing exterior. #ExteriorPaint #ColorSelection #CurbAppeal #HomeImprovement #ArchitecturalStyle #InteriorDesign #PaintSwatches #TimelessColors #ClimateConsiderations

Exterior paint colors significantly impact a home's curb appeal and overall aesthetic. Designers frequently recommend creamy whites and various shades of green for their timeless appeal and versatility. When selecting a white paint, it is crucial to choose a creamier shade than initially perceived, as natural lighting can make brighter whites appear stark or like a primer. Colors with creamy or gray undertones ensure a soothing and sophisticated look. Some popular white paint recommendations from designers include Sherwin-Williams’ Shoji White (SW 7042) and Alabaster (SW 7008), Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65, Edgecomb Gray HC-173 (especially for off-white brick), Timid White OC-39 (for stucco facades), Swiss Coffee OC-45, White Dove OC-17, and Behr’s Tibitan Jasmine M310-1. Tibitan Jasmine is noted for being a warm white that does not yellow, gray, or blue in different natural lights, making it suitable for various architectural styles and materials. Green exterior paints are favored for their ability to blend with natural landscapes and add a touch of personality. Farrow & Ball’s Calke Green, No. 34, is a designer favorite for its fresh, crisp, and timeless quality, pairing well with warm white paint, natural brick, or pale yellow exteriors. For homeowners seeking to add color to shutters, Farrow & Ball’s Bancha, No. 298, offers a vibrant green that allows for personal expression. Farrow & Ball’s Castle Gray, No. 92, is a classic green-gray, slate blue that can appear historical or contemporary depending on the lighting and surrounding colors. Benjamin Moore’s Essex Green HC-188 is often chosen to harmonize with the landscape, creating a sense of integration with outdoor living spaces. For accents, designers suggest almost-black shades that provide depth and highlight architectural details without appearing too harsh. Benjamin Moore’s Black Forest Green HC-187, slightly deeper than Essex Green, is ideal for trim. Benjamin Moore’s Waller Green CW-510 is a versatile dark green for exterior accents like shutters or front doors, appearing black initially but revealing a subtle green tint in sunlight, similar to the classic 'Charleston Green.' For a pristine, high-performance black lacquer finish on doors, Fine Paints of Europe’s Hollandlac Brilliant 98 in Black 0029 is recommended. For those looking for a bolder, unexpected color, Sherwin-Williams’ Nearly Peach (SW 6336) offers a cheerful pink hue, suitable for cottage-style homes or as an accent color. These designer-approved paint colors provide a range of options for homeowners to enhance their home's exterior with enduring style and character. #ExteriorPaint #HomeDesign #DesignerTips #PaintColors #WhitePaint #GreenPaint #CurbAppeal #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeRenovation

The article explores the evolving trends in exterior house paint colors, moving away from conventional neutrals like beige and taupe. It highlights insights from four local designers who share their preferred bold and timeless color choices for residential exteriors. The piece aims to provide homeowners with inspiration and expert recommendations for refreshing their homes' curb appeal. Marci Knoff of Marci Knoff Interiors discusses a specific project where she opted for Sherwin Williams’s Grays Harbor SW6236. This choice was made to complement existing golden-toned stone and wood doors on a house previously painted in a golden tan and blue. Knoff emphasizes that the deep blue-gray shade harmonizes with the stone, wood, and surrounding landscaping, offering a sophisticated and integrated look that moves beyond traditional neutral palettes. Richard Lippincott, a designer at Madden-McFarland, advocates for the use of unexpectedly dark and rich tones for house exteriors. He explains that applying these dramatic colors to both the main body and trim of a house can create striking curb appeal. Lippincott suggests that this approach is versatile, suitable for both midcentury-modern and more traditional homes, especially when paired with a vibrant front door. He specifically recommends Benjamin Moore Dragon’s Breath 1547, a blackish-bronze shade known for enhancing architectural details, and Benjamin Moore Navy Masterpiece 1652. The latter, a blue hue, is gaining popularity and offers a nod to Nantucket style without appearing overly coastal for a Midwestern setting, effectively complementing wood shingles, cedar trim, warm neutrals, and stone accents. Amy Thurston, another featured designer, expresses a preference for creamy whites over stark bright whites. She finds cream to be less imposing and more welcoming, describing it as a "friendly neighbor" in the color spectrum. Thurston suggests pairing creamy whites with charcoal or gray trim and shutters, along with wood elements, to achieve a look that is both sharp and fresh, yet timeless. She notes that this combination works well with brick, stands out on siding, and maintains its appeal in various lighting conditions, offering sophistication without harsh contrasts. Her specific recommendations include Farrow and Ball’s Schoolhouse White and Benjamin Moore’s China White. Michelle Schneider, a color consultant for PPG, recommends PPG paint’s Old Silk (PPG0993-6). She describes it as a classic, stormy-gray color with subtle navy undertones. Schneider highlights its versatility, stating it looks stunning when applied to a home’s entire exterior and pairs impeccably with either black or charcoal trim. Additionally, she notes that Old Silk appears idyllic alongside vibrant greenery, suggesting it can enhance a home's overall aesthetic and make it stand out. Schneider also mentions that PPG offers free virtual color consultations to assist homeowners in selecting appropriate paint colors for their projects. The article collectively demonstrates a shift towards more deliberate and distinctive exterior paint choices. Designers are moving away from conservative neutral tones to embrace richer, more nuanced colors that enhance architectural features and complement natural surroundings. The recommendations provided offer a range of options from bold blues and dark bronzes to creamy whites and sophisticated grays, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences while emphasizing timeless appeal and harmonious integration with a home's existing elements. #ExteriorPaintColors #HomeDesign #ColorConsultation #ArchitecturalDetails #CurbAppeal #InteriorDesigners #PaintTrends