Tips for Choosing an Exterior Paint Color

open cans of colorful paintThe color of your house has a significant impact on its appearance. After many years in the same home, there may come a time when the property needs a new exterior paint job. With so many colors to choose from, how do you decide which is best? At M. Brett Painting, we are experienced in execution and customer satisfaction.

We offer four basic tips to help guide you through the color selection process.

Consider Your Neighbors

If you live in a busy residential area lined with houses, you may want your home to stand out. Yet, it is important to be conscious of the reaction your color choice may evoke. If the majority of surrounding properties are shades of white and gray, yours might look silly as the only lime green house. Also consider resale. If you’re not planning on staying in the same place forever, what colors tend to attract more homebuyers?

Be Inspired by Other Features

If your home has stone and brick elements or distinguished roofing shingles, consider the colors that would complement those features the best. For example, the undertones in gray stone can sometimes be taupe, green, blue and even purple. A blue-gray paint color would look refined against stone accents.

Think About Your Location

We understand that New England weather can be both unpredictable and unpleasant at times. Working along the shoreline, our painting professionals see many homes that experience abundant sunshine and the negative effects of sea air. Although we only paint in fair weather conditions and allow for ample drying time between coats, it is recommended to consider paint colors that won’t reflect minimal damage caused by seasonal elements.

Choose Complementary Field, Accent & Trim Colors

  • Field: The largest areas of the exterior
  • Accent: Smaller features like doors and shutters
  • Trim: Window frames, fascias and corner boards

The field and trim colors should contrast each other (i.e. a dark blue house with white trim). You can be more daring with accent colors, like a bright red door, but avoid clashing with the field and trim colors.

Once you’ve decided on a color scheme, contact M. Brett Painting for a thorough and professional exterior paint job.