Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Exterior Paint Color for Your Home
Posted on April 23, 2025
Picking a paint color for your home’s exterior can feel overwhelming—and for good reason. The right color can elevate curb appeal and increase your home’s value, while the wrong one might have the opposite effect. If you’re preparing to paint your home’s exterior, keep an eye out for these common mistakes—and learn how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring the Roof and Trim
When selecting a new paint color, many homeowners focus only on the siding and forget to factor in permanent elements like the roof and trim. These features take up visual real estate and strongly influence how a color looks overall. For example, a dark gray or black roof may pair better with cool hues, while a reddish-brown roof works best with warmer shades. Trim details—such as window frames, shutters, and doors—should complement the main color, not compete with it.
2. Not Matching the Home’s Architectural Style
The style of your home should help guide your color palette. A bright, trendy color might look great on a modern build, but could clash on a traditional Colonial or Craftsman-style house. Homes with strong architectural character typically benefit from more timeless, understated tones that enhance their original charm.
3. Forgetting About the Surroundings
Your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Look at the full picture—nearby homes, your yard’s landscaping, and the climate in your area all play a role. A color that looks amazing in a sunny, coastal setting might not feel right in a wooded, suburban neighborhood. Try to find a balance between standing out and fitting in with your environment.
By taking into account your home’s permanent features, architectural design, environment, and natural lighting, you can choose a paint color that will boost its curb appeal and stand the test of time.
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