DIY Tips

How to choose an exterior paint color.

Choosing a new paint color sounds fun at first but can quickly become a burden. How many times have you fallen for a color swatch only to hate the shade once you've painted the whole room? The same can happen with your home’s exterior, causing you to spend more time and money to get the look you want. It pays to take your time and consider all the elements that affect the look and feel of your home. Our top tips can help you choose an exterior paint color you’ll love from start to finish.

Book of paint samples next to exterior of house.

1. Personal style

No matter what tone or shade you choose, your home should be a reflection of you. Start by identifying a few of your favorite styles and the coordinating colors to match. Online resources such as Pinterest or Houzz are great for inspiration and can provide examples to help get the perfect match when you head to the paint store.

2. Style of neighboring homes

Look to the homes in your neighborhood for more inspiration. This is also a great time to get familiar with any neighborhood association requirements for exterior improvements. Let the homes around you complement your style, but find opportunities to add your own unique spin such as an unexpectedly vibrant door or an eye-catching trim.

3. Interior style

Your entryway is your guests’ first hint at the overall look and feel of your home, so do your best to make a good first impression. If your home’s interior style is more contemporary, stick to a modern color palette outside as opposed to more traditional tones.

4. Existing colors

Unless you're doing a complete exterior transformation, you may need to choose a color that complements foundational features. Consider the type of brick or color of siding, roof and trim before you commit.

5. Accents

Does your home feature any unique architectural elements? Choose a color that accentuates those elements rather than hides them. Also consider the finish on your outdoor lighting and door hardware. This is a great time to consider outfitting your home with a new finish to pull your house’s exterior together.

6. Doors

Especially if you choose a new exterior color that’s dramatically different from the old, you might want to choose a new paint color for your front door, too. Your entryway should stand out for the right reasons, not because of a color clash. Try these tips from Better Homes & Gardens for choosing front door paint colors or take HGTV’s fun interactive quiz.

7. Climate

Think about the climate where you live and the orientation of your home. Does your front door face direct sunlight for most of the day? Then you'll likely want to stay away from black, which absorbs more heat and can fade more quickly than some lighter colors. Also consider humidity levels, which can dictate the type of paint you should choose. Contact your local paint store for more information before you buy.

What process do you go through to find the perfect exterior paint color? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

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