When your home needs a fresh coat of paint, you might have trouble narrowing down your options. There are many critical components to think about when it comes to painting a home’s exterior. To ensure your choice is both practical and beautiful, take the following factors into account.

What to Consider When Picking an Exterior Paint Color

1. Exterior Elements

Fortunately, your home already has a few features you can use as a starting point. Elements like the roof, trim, and brick or stone foundation can help guide your choice. New paint should complement existing structures. It's also helpful to consider the size of the house. For example, dark colors can make large houses look ominous and gloomy.

2. Neighboring Homes

One consideration homeowners often overlook is their neighbors’ homes. Having homes with similar color schemes creates a cozier, more cohesive neighborhood. Although you don’t need to copy everyone around you, their paint colors can serve as inspiration. Drive around your neighborhood and be on the lookout for color palettes that catch your eye. 

3. Architectural Style

The architectural style of your home should play a major role in this decision. Whether you live in a mid-century modern ranch or an Italianate home, there are certain color schemes that are better suited to the style. A tudor-style home, for instance, is almost universally a white or off-white color with brown accents. Straying too far from your home’s style can look jarring and unnatural.

4. Timeless Neutrals

When in doubt, neutral colors are almost always a safe bet. Shades of brown, gray, beige, blue, and white will stand the test of time. Additionally, if you ever plan to sell, neutral colors are ideal. Bright or unusual exterior paint can put off a lot of potential buyers.

5. Different Lighting Conditions

One of the most important factors to remember about painting is that colors look different in various lighting conditions. With just a swatch, it’s almost impossible to tell how a color will look on your exterior. When you have a few color options, get samples you can paint directly onto the house. Throughout the day, go out and observe. See how the test strokes look in the light and dark. You may find it easier to narrow down your choices when you have a reference right on the wall.

If you need a professional painting company to refresh and revitalize your home, turn to T.K. Painting & Decorating LLC in Dakota County, MN. Since 1998, these home improvement experts have made it their mission to meet their clients’ visions and enhance the look of your home. They offer precise exterior and interior painting, drywall repair, wallpaper removal, and installation. Learn more about their services and view a gallery of past painting projects online. For a no-obligation estimate, call (952) 210-5963.