Choosing Exterior Paint Colors for Homes
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Creating a grand scheme of paint colors for one's home is no easy task. And though exteriors consist of one color, the perception is that it is an easy choice, but alas, it does require a certain amount of thinking.
A number of factors will influence the color or stain used. Below, we take a look at a few of them.
Setting
This isn't exactly obvious, but setting does determine to a degree the look of a home's exterior. A home located deep in the country is not exactly calling for a hot pink or other garrish color, nor is something in an upper scale community—such a choice would look out of place in both. One wants to be free in the choice of color, but it should not call too much attention to itself in the quest for a great aesthetic appearance. Also, a green color in a wooded area will camouflage the paint job. Not a good idea.
There are a range of colors available to the painter, some more adventurous than others, that can be shown to the homeowner. It is best to consult an experience painting contractor to settle on the right exterior look for your home.
An earthy, natural setting will require earth tones. In a more architecturally-adventurous neighborhood, more modern exterior looks can be explored, especially if the home's structure is artistic in its own right.
The Age of the House
This is another aspect of exterior painting not always considered. A very old house, something from Wisconsin's early history, for instance, will require an exterior paint job that fits the architecture but also updates the look to current color trends. Just as noted above, a garrish look is not advised, but it's not too often that homeowners are intent on exploring such adventures in color.
On the other hand, a painting contractor could help you duplicate the original paint job typical of homes from that period.
Match the Exterior's Color to the Interior
An interior color, whether it be the color of the walls, furnishings or other objects, can all be used to inspire an exterior look. Some restraint should be used in this regard, because what you don't want is a home completely outfitted in the same color.
Use what you find in your home as inpiration. If you like the look of one or a few colors, ask a painting contractor of the look would work for your exterior. Multiple colors can be chosen, especially for the home's shutters, doors, windows, decks and any columns. Too many colors, on the other hand, creates too much information and will just look plain bad.
Will it Sell?
Not all homeowners think of the possiblity that you might one day sell your house and the paint job might prove critical in selling it! While you should always try to satisfy your personal taste first, do keep in mind that the color scheme and it's condition will be the first thing that potential buyers will see.
Pick colors and the quality of paint with that in mind.

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