Are you looking to give your home a fresh new look and increase its curb appeal? One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to do this is by updating your exterior paint colors. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right color combinations.
In this article, we’ll provide you with expert guidance and inspiration for selecting the perfect exterior paint color combos. We’ll explore popular color schemes, such as complementary, monochromatic, and analogous, and offer tips for selecting colors that complement your home’s architecture and landscape.
We’ll also cover trending color palettes for modern, traditional, and farmhouse-style homes. From bold and vibrant hues to muted and earthy tones, we’ll show you how to create a cohesive and visually appealing look for your home’s exterior.
Not only will updated paint colors enhance your home’s aesthetic, but they can also increase your home’s value and help it stand out in a competitive real estate market. So, whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want to give it a fresh new look, our comprehensive guide to exterior paint color combos has got you covered.
What are the most popular color schemes for home exteriors?
There are a few color schemes that are particularly popular for home exteriors. One is a monochromatic scheme, which uses different shades of a single color. This can create a soothing and cohesive look. Another popular option is a complementary scheme, which uses colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, like blue and orange or red and green. This creates a high-contrast look that can be very eye-catching. Analogous schemes, which use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, are also popular, as they create a harmonious and balanced look.
How do I choose colors that complement my home’s architecture and landscape?
When choosing colors for your home’s exterior, it’s important to consider the overall style of your home and its surroundings. For example, a modern home might look best with a bold and sleek color scheme, while a traditional home might look better with more muted and classic colors. You should also consider the colors of any existing landscaping or hardscaping elements, like your roof, driveway, or walkway, and choose colors that complement them.
What are some current trends in exterior paint colors?
Current trends in exterior paint colors include muted and earthy tones, like warm grays, taupe, and beige, as well as bold and vibrant hues, like navy blue, forest green, and rich burgundy. In general, homeowners are moving away from traditional white or beige exteriors and opting for more unique and eye-catching color schemes.
Can I use multiple colors on my home’s exterior, and if so, how should I choose them?
Yes, you can definitely use multiple colors on your home’s exterior. When choosing colors, you can use the 60-30-10 rule as a guideline: 60% of your color should be the main color of your home, 30% should be a secondary color, and 10% should be an accent color. You can also use different shades of a single color to create a monochromatic look, or choose colors that are complementary or analogous to create a cohesive scheme.
How can I make sure my color choices will look good together?
One way to ensure your color choices will look good together is to create a mood board or use an online color palette generator. This will allow you to see how different colors look together and get a sense of the overall vibe they create. You can also look at color swatches in person and test them out in different lighting conditions to get a sense of how they’ll look on your home.
Are there any color combinations that should be avoided for home exteriors?
There aren’t any hard and fast rules about which color combinations to avoid, as it largely depends on personal preference and the overall style of your home. However, some color combinations may be more difficult to pull off successfully than others, such as bright and clashing colors or colors that don’t complement each other. It’s also important to consider the colors of any existing landscaping or hardscaping elements when choosing your colors.
What kind of paint should I use for exterior surfaces, and how much will I need?
For exterior surfaces, it’s best to use a high-quality, 100% acrylic latex paint that is designed specifically for exterior use. This type of paint is durable, long-lasting, and resistant to fading and cracking. The amount of paint you’ll need depends on the size of your home and the number of coats you plan to apply, but as a rough estimate, you’ll need about one gallon of paint for every 400 square feet of surface area.
How long can I expect my exterior paint job to last?
The lifespan of an exterior paint job largely depends on several factors, including the quality of the paint used, the surface being painted, and the climate and weather conditions in your area. In general, a well-done exterior paint job can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, with some high-quality paints lasting even longer.
However, there are several factors that can affect the longevity of your paint job. For example, harsh weather conditions like extreme heat or cold, rain, and wind can cause the paint to fade or peel more quickly. Poor surface preparation can also cause paint to fail prematurely, so it’s important to make sure that your surfaces are clean, dry, and free of any dirt, debris, or loose paint before painting.
To extend the life of your exterior paint job, it’s important to choose a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for exterior use and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning your surfaces and inspecting for any signs of damage or wear, can also help to prolong the life of your paint job.
Can I change the color of my home’s exterior if it’s made of certain materials, like brick or stucco?
Yes, you can change the color of your home’s exterior even if it’s made of certain materials, like brick or stucco. However, the process of painting these materials is different from painting wood or other more porous surfaces.
For brick exteriors, the surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned and prepped before painting. This involves removing any dirt, grime, or loose mortar, and repairing any cracks or damage to the surface. Once the surface is prepped, a high-quality paint specifically designed for brick should be used, as this will provide better adhesion and durability.
Stucco exteriors also require thorough cleaning and prep work before painting, including repairing any cracks or damage to the surface. A high-quality, elastomeric paint should be used, as this will expand and contract with the stucco surface and help prevent cracking.
It’s important to note that some homeowners may prefer not to paint over certain materials like brick or stucco, as the natural texture and color of these materials can add to the aesthetic appeal of a home. In these cases, it may be possible to use a color wash or other semi-transparent coating to alter the color without completely covering the original material.
Will painting my home’s exterior increase its value?
Painting your home’s exterior can increase its value, but it’s important to note that the value increase will largely depend on the quality of the paint job and the overall condition of your home.
A well-done exterior paint job can help to improve the curb appeal of your home, which can be a major factor in its value. If your home looks more attractive from the outside, it may be more appealing to potential buyers and can ultimately lead to a higher sale price.
However, it’s important to choose a paint color that is neutral and timeless, rather than a trendy or unique color that may not appeal to everyone. A paint color that is too bold or too personalized can actually detract from the value of your home.
In addition to the aesthetic benefits, a good exterior paint job can also protect your home from the elements, which can prevent damage and costly repairs in the future. This added protection can be a selling point for potential buyers and can contribute to the overall value of your home.
Ultimately, while a fresh coat of paint can improve your home’s value, it’s just one of many factors that go into determining its overall worth. Other factors, such as location, size, and condition, can also play a significant role in the value of your home.
Conclusion
Painting your home’s exterior can be a worthwhile investment that can increase its value and curb appeal. However, it’s important to choose a high-quality paint and a neutral color that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Additionally, proper surface preparation and maintenance can help to prolong the life of your paint job and protect your home from the elements. While painting your home’s exterior is just one aspect of increasing its value, it can be a great way to enhance your home’s appearance and protect your investment for years to come.
