Exterior Color Painting Tips

You're getting ready to repaint your home or possibly install new siding. What colors should you use? What will look the best? The following are some tips and/or guidelines to follow when choosing colors:

• Stay with light colors. Light colors tend to make a home seem closer to the curb than it really is while dark colors will make a home seem further from the curb. If you choose to use a dark color, be careful. Very dark-colored paint, because it absorbs heat and light, may not last as long (fading, peeling, blistering, etc.).
• Try to limit your selections to no more than 3 colors including trim, siding, and one accent (such as a front door, sidelights, or windows). You can add style and interest by accenting architectural details with dramatic colors.
• If you have a smaller home, use light colors to keep your home from looking smaller. Keep your contrast down.
• Select a color that complements your roof and in many cases, your brick. If you plan to reroof your house, be sure you take the new roofing color into consideration.
• If you have a tall home such as a two-story, emphasize horizontal elements in the window trim colors.
• Obtain a professional opinion. As with any painting project, it can be hard to visualize what your house might look like with new colors. Whether you're going to "do it yourself" or hire a professional, a professional opinion (which may cost a nominal fee) may save you time, money and aggravation.

Remember: Touch ups are inevitable. Be sure to save samples and formulas of paint colors that will be used on your home.