Exterior Paint Color Tips and Trends
Can’t wait to paint the exterior of my new home. It’s going to be gorgeous! Coming soon.
What to keep in mind when choosing an exterior paint color
There are a number of details you want to keep in mind when choosing exterior paint colors to help you determine what may be the best route for you both now and when it comes time to sell.
Exterior Type
Understanding your siding is the number one most important detail you should keep in mind when determining your exterior paint color. Certain sidings should not be painted dark due to sun exposure and the effect of warping, while others aesthetically have color pallets that show off their textures best. Whatever your siding may be, do yourself a favor and consult a paint expert to double check what color and paint type would work best.
When it Comes to Brick and picking and exterior paint color
Many homes have a brick detailing around the base of the home. Be sure to take it into consideration when you are choosing your paint colors for the main portion of your siding. Whether you decide to paint it or leave it “all natural” it will play a role in the exterior’s appearance. I personally have been a big fan of all white brick homes, but have also seen some amazing light putty grey accents.
Don’t Forget About the Roof
The top of your home, aka the roof, should also be considered when selecting exterior paint colors. Most individuals do not add on the expense of replacing the roof when updating the color aesthetics of an exterior. If you’re in the same boat, you need to understand how your new paint color(s) will compare and contrast with your roof detailing.
Cost Effective Approach to Painting Windows
Many of us LOVE the ongoing trend of black windows. However, taking on the added expense of swapping out each window can be a very costly endeavor. Instead, you can choose to select trim accent colors that will highlight your already existing windows. Whether they are white, black, green, blue, red, yellow or purple, you will want to plan your paint selection around your windows.
Tone it Up or Down With Trim Details
Last, but not least, is trim detail. Many homes throughout the Twin Cities have gorgeous trim detailing across Tudor and Bungalow homes. If you originally planned on going a bit bolder with your exterior trim paint color, take a minute to think through whether it will look a bit overwhelming or allow the home to have a statement moment. Ultimately, you don’t want to tire of your choice so test out a few selections and go from there.
Exterior Paint Colors that are on Trend in 2021
When choosing an exterior paint color, you not only want to pick a color you love, but also one that can help you sell your home down the road. That is why understanding what is on trend and relatable to the mass market is so important. Curb appeal can be an absolute show stopper, so careful selection is a must. Here are some of my favorite exterior paint color trends for 2021.
Studio McGee
Warm, Creamy White
Although stark white is still a heavy hitter in both interior and exterior paint, creamier whites are making a big splash in 2021 and I’m in love! They help elevate clean lines and are a great option to use with organic accents such as brick, landscaping, wood details, and more.
Brick & Batten
Pale Blue and Green
If you’re looking for phenomenal accent colors, look no further. Pale blues and greens give a sense of interest to a home, while not overpowering the architectural details. You will most likely see some form of a pale green make its way onto my trim in the near future, so be on the look out!
Bronze
If you’re looking to make a statement with your exterior paint, consider bronze! This year Urban Bronze has been making its way towards the top as a crowd favorite both inside and outside of homes. It is a great substitute for dark charcoals or blacks, allowing for a more moody exterior tone while helping to highlight natural woods and contrasting trim.
Patsy Overton Interiors
Beige
I can’t believe I’m saying this out loud, but you read that right folks, beige is here and I’m actually not mad about it when it comes to trim accents. Don’t think of the yellowing tones of beige though. Instead think of almost an off white beige with some cooler undertones. In the right lighting, it’s growing popularity.
Brick & Batten
Pale Gray
Gone are the days of cool grays. Instead, this year has been welcoming a lot of warm undertone grays with a hint of beige and/or green. I am absolutely in love with this twist and stop dead in my tracks when I see it being used.
Repose Gray - Sherwin Williams
The good news: technically all types of sidings are paintable
Whether you have wood, stucco, brick, composites, stone, vinyl, or even metal. They are all paintable. The paint type and application just look a bit different.
Wood
Take for instance, wood siding, this is the most high maintenance siding when it comes to wear and tear. Typically you will need to paint the home every 6-8 years for both aesthetics, as well as to protect the homes from the elements. In addition, because wood siding is not smooth, a penetrating stain is generally used to properly bond and further protect the wood.
Metal or Cement
Metal or cement siding tend to look a little different. They usually come from the factory painted and peel or fade over time. A high quality acrylic paint needs to be applied when painting these types of homes. Be sure to spray wash and clean any metal or cement siding before applying paint as this will ensure a smooth application. In addition, this siding shows best when sprayed vs. brush stroked.
Vinyl
Now vinyl is an interesting siding. This type of material lasts forever. Quite often you won’t have to paint it during your ownership. However, if you do choose to paint your exterior and you have vinyl, be sure to consult an exterior painter for “vinyl safe” paint. Colors that have a black variant attract the sun and cause excessive heat warping to happen to the siding.
Stucco
The siding I see most throughout Minneapolis is stucco. It’s a long lasting material that can handle quite a few of the elements. When painting stucco, it is best to use a flat paint with a sprayer. The flat paint allows you to touch up areas from all angles without leaving blotches. Because of the consistency of stucco and the fact that it is not smooth, stucco needs to be painted from all angles with a sprayer and is recommended that you use an experience professional.
timing is everything: The perfect weather to paint the exterior of your home
As most of us know, the seasons greatly dictate when you can paint your exterior. But did you know that the type of paint you’re using can vary on what temperatures work best? I know I didn’t!
Oil Based: Can be applied between 40-90 degrees Fahrenheit
Latex Paint: Work best between 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit
Ideally, if you can choose a day that will be between 60-80 degrees, no rain, and little to know wind you should be good!
Did you know that it is more important to ensure there is no rain in the forecast the day before you paint than the day after? It makes sense now that I’ve done the research, but I know most of us tend to concentrate on the day of and day after. Apparently it is more important that the area is dry 6-8 hours before you paint to ensure you get a good bond rather than after.
Lastly, humidity should be taken into account. Depending on your region, it is suggested to wait until humidity levels are between 40-70% to allow your exterior paint to dry properly.
All the best!
Jen
Investor // Landlord and DIYer // Realtor // Business Consultant // Globe Trotter // Converting Vegan.
