EXTERIOR COLOR SCHEME-FIVE TIPS TO CHOOSE YOUR COLOR

EXTERIOR COLOR SCHEMES

FIVE TIPS TO SUCCESSFULLY PICK YOUR COLOR!

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR NEXT COLOR.

COLOR TRENDS, PAINTS AND GOOD PAINTING PRACTICE

Do you plan on sprucing up your home exteriors this fall?  Or, are you considering placing you home on the market?  No matter what the reason, a fresh coat of paint can immediately revive the overall appearance of what typically is your largest investment, YOUR HOME.

   When it comes to exterior painting, many people chose to repaint using the same colors that already exist on the house.  However, choosing a new color scheme can be exciting and provide a new and updated look.  In addition, remind yourself that refreshing your home with a new paint job is one of the most cost-effective projects you can invest in and one that truly adds value.

   Choosing a new color scheme might seem daunting at first; however, here are some suggestions that will help and guide you through the color selection process.

1. CONSIDER THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE HOME

Some architectural styles, such as Victorian, lend themselves to elaborate four and even five-color schemes. Others, like Georgian or Colonial styles, are better-suited to two or three colors.  Usually this includes a main body color and one or two accent colors for trim, shutters and doors.

    2.   NOTE THE MATERIAL OF CONSTRUCTION

         If the home is made of wood, brick, masonry or aluminum siding, IT CAN BE     PAINTED virtually any color.  However, if it has vinyl siding, it might be best to paint it a similar hue to the original, although newer paints on the market have been formulated to allow for a wider choice on this surface.  And several primer/sealers of the acrylic variety will stick to the vinyl siding and allow premium exterior paint of any color to be applied. These include Bulls Eye 1-2-3, Glidden Gripper, Kilz Total Premium.  If you read the labels of these products you will see that they claim to stick to any surface.  I have used all three of these and they deliver on their promise.

   3.  TAKE FIXED COLORS INTO ACCOUNT

   Consider the colors on and near the house that cannot, or will not, be painted.  This includes the roof color and wood, masonry or stone that will be left unpainted.  Just remember that all of these surfaces can be painted with the technology of paints and primers that are on the market today.

4.      CONSIDER THE SURROUNDINGS

Look at the hues of neighboring homes and buildings-particularly those that are right next door. You would not want to suggest a color that is exactly the same as your neighbor’s home, and conversely, you don’t want to clash with it either.  Also, be sure to take into account any plantings that are in your yard or landscaping.  If your house is in a neighborhood where the houses are fairly close together, then you would likewise consider the plantings and landscaping of a nearby neighbor.  This can make your house and property appear larger than it is when it compliments what is next door.

5.      CHECK FOR RESTRICTIONS

Some historical districts, newer developments, and townhome or condominium communities have restrictions on what paint colors or color combinations may be used.  To avoid disappointment, it’s best to find out about these limitations before choosing and applying new hues.

Well, there you have it, 5 excellent tips to help you pick your new color for your home.  This is the easy process.  Next comes, the painting process.  This is probably the most difficult and misunderstood process of all home improvement projects.  I know, you have been bombarded with the idea that you can do it yourself.  Yes you can, but at what cost.  I mean, what will it going to cost you in your time, energy and any relationship you have with your mate or neighbors.  It can be ugly.  Please give consideration to hiring the professional painter for this.  Exterior painting is a different animal than interior painting.  It is a big ugly animal that will bite you, maul you and leave you whimpering on the ground.  I have seen this happen and witnessed this ugly truth.

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As always “Happy Painting and Decorating”

Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.     Serving Northwest Arkansas U.S.A.