You may not pay much mind to your exterior paint until it starts to chip, peel, and fade. This may prompt you to wonder: when is the last time I had the house painted? If you can’t remember, that means it’s time to call an exterior painter in San Francisco. Once you do that, it’s time to start thinking about the colors you want. Do you go with the same color, or switch it up? What about trim colors?
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing the right exterior paint colors. After all, the color you choose will be highly visible for next five years or so, which means you need to put a lot of thought into this decision. In addition to color schemes, you have to think about paint type and budget. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the paint color selection process.
Consider:
Colors You Already Have
The first step is to decide if you like the color your house is right now, or if you’re ready for a change. If you want a change, take a look at the house colors of your immediate neighbors. If every house is gray, you may want to avoid that color and go with something that will stand out more.
Just don’t go too bold. While you may adore bright colors, stick to a muted tone for a more natural look. You may get sick of that royal blue in a year, and then you’re stuck with it. A good rule of thumb? Start with your favorite bright hue, then choose a color that’s at least two steps down from it.
You can always add pops of color for smaller accent pieces to try them out, such as the front door. Those items are more easily fixed and changed later if need be.
Features and Materials
Next up, think about the structures and features that you want to paint. Make a list of them and put them down on paper, such as shutters, porch ceiling, railings, roofline trim, front door, and stucco. Next, make a list of all the materials you’ll need to coordinate with those new exterior colors, such as windows, roof, stone and brick facades, and exterior flooring. Narrow down these materials and features until you come up with the ideal exterior color that suits your style.
What is Unchangeable About Your Exteriors
Often times, there are aspects of a home that people find impossible or difficult to change, such as brickwork and roofing. As such, make sure the exterior paint you select complements those colors and materials so they do not clash.
Color Considerations
The three main color considerations for exterior painting are:
- Field color: This is the primary color of your house (stucco or siding), and it should be a neutral color.
- Trim color: This is the color of the columns, ceilings, window trims, railings, and overhangs. These can be a darker or lighter shade than your primary field color.
- Accent color: From shutters to the front door, these areas are where you can add more daring pops of color if you want to make a bold statement. They’re more easily changed later on if you get sick of them. It’s easier to repaint these elements than it is to repaint the whole house!
Home Location
The location of your home will be another factor in choosing an exterior paint color. Maybe your home is located in a historic district or maybe you are a part of a homeowners’ association (HOA). These communities have their own sets of rules regarding house paint colors, so be sure to check the regulations before you make a decision.
Different Lighting
Paint colors tend to look different under varying lighting conditions during different parts of the day (morning, afternoon, evening, night). Therefore, it’s a good idea to test sample swatches in your desired colors under these various lighting conditions before choosing one. This is important, as natural light impacts how certain colors appear on your home’s exterior. What looks good on paper may look too dark or light in reality.
Roof Color
Your roof color should not be ignored when considering exterior house colors. The last thing you want to do is choose a house color that will clash with your roof’s color. It’s wise to choose a color that is a few shades darker or lighter to create an eye-pleasing contrast.
Get Your Free Exterior Painting Quote From Fresh Start Now
Looking to paint the exterior of your home? Why hassle with that yourself? Fresh Start Painting SF in Daly City CA can handle any exterior painting need you may have, from homes to sheds and beyond. Contact us today at (415) 347-7689 for a free quote and consultation.