Since your kids have finally left the nest, you might’ve set your heart on taking on a range of home improvement projects, including repainting your exterior. And why not? After decades of living with the same color, it’s time for a change. But before you review your options, learn about these four mistakes to avoid when choosing an exterior paint color.
Matching Interiors and Exteriors
As you ponder which color to use, you may ask yourself the question, “Should I match my exterior with my interior paint colors?” By doing so, you may have a home you’re happy with, but you may also deprive yourself of an opportunity to add unique curb appeal to your house.
People often use relaxing colors inside their homes. However, you can use brighter hues on the outside that accentuate its features. If you think you may sell your home someday, don’t miss an opportunity to add color to your residence that could catch the eyes of future buyers.
Ignoring Your Neighbors’ Houses
Another mistake to avoid when choosing an exterior paint color is ignoring your neighbors’ houses. Although you’ll want to pick a color you’re happy with, you should try not to choose one that’ll clash with the others and stick out like a sore thumb. If you belong to a homeowners’ association, make sure that you check their guidelines so that you don’t find yourself in conflict with them.
Relying on Printed Paint Samples
You should also avoid relying on printed paint samples as your guide to what the final color will look like on your home. Although they can provide you with a sense of what it might look like, your home’s exterior may absorb the paint differently and change the color.
You can test the paint by buying a small sample to try on your home or a piece of poster board that you can put up outside your house. Both will give you a good idea of how the color appears on your exterior.
Forgetting About the Weather
Finally, it can help to consider the impacts the weather may have on your paint. Will the rain or sun cause your paint to degrade, or will it be resilient and hold up?
The sun can also make your color seem even lighter after you’ve painted it on your walls. Try to find strong paint that will adhere well to your house’s surface while using samples to see how the finish will look at certain times of the day.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can choose a color for your house more effectively. This project is your opportunity to add a new look to your home, so make sure you choose wisely.
