Medium shot of a wall painting, an industrial worker uses a roller and other tools to paint the walls of a new home.

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint can dramatically transform its appearance and boost your property’s value. However, choosing the right colours and planning the project can be overwhelming. 

Luckily, property expert Natalie Mitchell at HomeHow.co.uk is here to provide you with everything you need to know about painting your home’s exterior. This guide will help you navigate the process from colour selection to the final brushstroke.

Colour Ideas For Your Exterior

Choosing the perfect exterior paint colour can be a daunting task, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to transform your home’s kerb appeal. The right colour palette can dramatically enhance your property’s aesthetic and overall value.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting your exterior paint colours:

Understand Your Home’s Style

  • Traditional homes: Often lend themselves to classic colour palettes, such as crisp whites, soft creams, and timeless blues and greys. These colours exude elegance and sophistication.
  • Modern homes: Offer a canvas for bolder colour choices. Consider sleek monochromatic schemes or contrasting combinations of bright and neutral hues to create a contemporary look.
  • Cottage-style homes: Embrace the charm of cottage living with pastel shades like lavender, sage green, and soft yellows. These colours evoke a sense of warmth and tranquillity.
  • Contemporary homes: Experiment with striking colour combinations and architectural details. Black or charcoal exteriors can create a dramatic and modern statement.

Harmonise with Your Surroundings

Your home’s exterior should complement its natural environment. Consider the following:

  • Natural elements: Draw inspiration from the colours of your surrounding landscape. For example, if your home is nestled among lush greenery, consider earthy tones like olive green or terracotta.
  • Local architecture: Observe the colour palettes of neighbouring homes to ensure your choice fits harmoniously within the neighbourhood.

Create a Focal Point

A well-chosen focal point can draw attention to your home’s most attractive features. Consider these options:

  • Front door: A bold and contrasting colour can make a dramatic statement.
  • Shutters: Add depth and dimension with contrasting or complementary shutter colours.
  • Architectural details: Highlight unique features like bay windows or columns with a contrasting paint colour.

Test Before You Commit

Before committing to a full exterior paint job, it’s essential to test your colour choices.

  • Paint swatches: Purchase small paint samples to test on different areas of your home’s exterior.
  • Observe colour changes: Watch how the colours look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.
  • Consider undertones: Be aware of undertones in paint colours, as they can significantly impact the overall appearance.

Popular Colour Combinations

To inspire your palette, consider these classic and contemporary colour combinations:

  • Classic elegance: White or cream exterior with black or navy trim.
  • Modern sophistication: Grey with accents of bright colours like orange or teal.
  • Natural charm: Earthy tones such as brown, green, and beige for a timeless look.
  • Bold statement: Deep reds, blues, or greens for a dramatic and eye-catching exterior.

Remember, the key to selecting the perfect exterior paint colours is to consider your home’s style, surroundings, and personal preferences. Experiment with different options and have fun creating a stunning exterior that reflects your taste.

Design Ideas For Your Exterior

Once you’ve selected your exterior paint colours, it’s time to elevate your home’s aesthetic with thoughtful design elements. These details can transform your property from ordinary to extraordinary.

Accentuate with Trim and Details

  • Contrast is key: Use contrasting colours for trim, window frames, and doors to create visual interest and define architectural details. For instance, white trim against a navy blue exterior can create a classic and elegant look.
  • Coordinate or complement: Choose trim colours that either complement or contrast with your main exterior colour. A subtle contrast can create a sophisticated appearance, while a bold contrast can make a statement.
  • Consider material: The material of your trim can also impact the overall look. For example, wooden trim can add warmth, while metal trim offers a modern edge.

Make a Statement with Your Front Door

Your front door is the welcoming face of your home. Consider these design ideas:

  • Bold colour: A vibrant front door can instantly transform your home’s kerb appeal. Choose a colour that complements or contrasts with your exterior.
  • Textured finishes: Add dimension and interest with textured finishes like wood grain or metallic paints.
  • Hardware and accessories: Enhance your front door with stylish hardware, such as an ornate door knocker or decorative house numbers, along with eye-catching address plaques that reflect your personal style.
  • Floral arrangements: Create a welcoming atmosphere with seasonal planters or hanging baskets.

Enhance with Shutters

Shutters can add charm, character, and functionality to your home’s exterior.

  • Style selection: Choose shutter styles that complement your home’s architecture. Traditional homes often suit louvred shutters, while modern homes may prefer flat or raised panel shutters.
  • Colour coordination: Paint your shutters a contrasting colour for a bold statement, or match them to your trim for a cohesive look.
  • Functionality: Consider whether you want shutters that open and close or purely decorative ones.

Illuminate Your Home’s Beauty

Exterior lighting is very essential for both safety and aesthetic appeal.

  • Functional lighting: Install path lights, security lights, and porch lights for safety and convenience.
  • Accent lighting: Highlight architectural features, trees, or garden elements with up lights or spotlights.
  • Create ambience: Use string lights or lanterns to create a lovely, warm and inviting atmosphere on your patio or porch.

Landscaping and Exterior Harmony

Your garden and landscaping should complement your home’s exterior colour scheme.

  • Colour coordination: Choose plants and flowers with colours that complement your home’s exterior.
  • Create focal points: Use landscaping to draw attention to specific areas of your home, such as the front door or a bay window.
  • Maintain a clean and tidy exterior: Regular landscaping maintenance enhances your home’s overall appeal.

By incorporating these design elements into your exterior paint project, you can create a stunning and inviting home that reflects your personal style.

Getting The Job Done: A Step-By-Step Guide

Painting your home’s exterior is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and preparation. While it can be a very rewarding DIY project, it is essential to approach it with the right mindset and tools.

Preparation is Key

Thorough preparation is the foundation of a successful exterior paint job. Follow these steps:

  • Clean the exterior: Remove dirt, grime, mould, and loose paint with a pressure washer or a combination of detergent and scrubbing. Pay close attention to areas prone to mildew, such as shaded spots and corners.
  • Repair damage: Address any cracks, holes, or peeling paint. Fill small holes with caulk or wood filler, and repair larger areas with patching compound. Sand down rough patches for a smooth finish.
  • Prime the surface: Applying a high-quality exterior primer is important for ensuring proper adhesion and durability. Choose a primer specifically designed for your exterior surface, such as wood, metal, or masonry.

Choosing the Right Paint

Choosing the right paint for the job is essential for a long-lasting and attractive finish. Consider these factors:

  • Paint type: Exterior paints are formulated to withstand various weather conditions. Choose a paint suitable for your climate, such as acrylic latex or oil-based paint.
  • Finish: The paint finish affects the appearance and durability of your home’s exterior. Matte finishes hide imperfections but are more susceptible to dirt, while glossy finishes are easier to clean but may highlight surface flaws.
  • Colour selection: Refer to the previous section on colour ideas for inspiration and tips on choosing the perfect hue.

Application Techniques

Proper application techniques are essential for achieving a professional-looking finish.

  • Start at the top: Begin painting the roof, eaves, and gutters first to prevent drips and splatters on lower areas.
  • Work in sections: Divide your home’s exterior into manageable sections to avoid the paint drying before you finish.
  • Cut in carefully: Use a brush to paint around windows, doors, trim, and corners before rolling larger areas.
  • Apply even coats: Apply thin, even coats of paint for optimal coverage and to prevent runs and sags.
  • Allow sufficient drying time: Ensure each coat is completely dry before applying the next.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Protect surfaces: Cover plants, walkways, and other areas with drop cloths to prevent paint damage.
  • Weather conditions: Avoid painting in extreme heat, cold, or humidity, as these conditions can affect the paint’s drying time and durability.
  • Safety first: Use proper safety equipment, including a sturdy ladder, protective eyewear, and gloves.
  • Consider hiring professionals: If you’re unsure about your DIY abilities or have a large project, consider hiring professional painters.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can transform your home’s exterior into a stunning and durable masterpiece.

Final Thoughts

With careful planning and the right approach, painting your home’s exterior can be a rewarding and transformative experience. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge and tools you need to navigate the process, from selecting the perfect colour palette to achieving a professional-looking finish. Remember, a fresh coat of paint doesn’t just enhance your home’s kerb appeal; it also increases its value and protects the exterior from the elements. So, unleash your creativity, embrace the DIY spirit, or find reputable professionals to help you bring your vision to life.