Deciding on the perfect colors for your new siding and trim can be fun and challenging at the same time. Since the outside of your house is the most visible part, you want to get it right. While a neutral color palette is always safe, there are color combinations that can transform your home into the best-looking house on the block.
If you are concerned about picking the wrong colors, the following points will steer you in the right direction.
1. Think in Threes
The best color palettes include three hues. The siding color is the primary color of your home. It’s what everybody notices. But don’t forget about the trim and accent colors.
Trim colors are used for the window and door casings, eaves and roof edging. White or cream is often the “go-to” trim color. However, darker hues and pale shades also make fantastic choices. A brown trim creates a rich look to homes that are sided in earth-toned yellows. For a different look, a medium blue trim will give an earth-toned house a light, breezy feel.
Accent colors are meant to be bold but use them sparingly. It’s an easy way to add pizzazz to your home without going overboard. A front door is an excellent place to use an accent color.
2. Architectural Style of Your Home
Your siding color should be appropriate for the architectural style of your home. Each style has a range of colors that is typical for it. To remain architecturally accurate to the design of the structure, any of the hues from that color palette can be used. Victorian homes are designed to accommodate four to six colors. Craftsman homes can also handle multiple colors. Try using those same colors on a Cape Cod home, and it won’t work.
3. Existing Elements
Your home’s exterior is a canvas, but it’s not blank. What is the color of your roof? Are there stone elements or a brick chimney? What colors are they? Since these colors won’t change, your siding color choice is guided by them. You will need to stay in the same color family. Are the undertones warm (beige, brown, and orange) or cool (grey, blue, and black)? Your color scheme is determined by finding colors that tie all the elements together in a harmonious way.
4. Surrounding Landscapes
The natural environment around your home also needs to be considered. If you live in a wooded setting, pick a light or contrasting color, so it stands out from the trees. Dark colors will cause your home to blend into its surroundings.
Is there a colorful flower garden in front of your home? You may consider pulling a color from the flowerbed and using it as an accent color. For instance, if you have a beautiful display of red roses, you may consider installing a red front door.
5. Neighborhood Style
What is the style of your neighborhood? Although you don’t want to copy the exact color combinations your neighbors have used, pick colors that complement them. Your style may be bold, but if you live in a conservative area, choosing a color that screams for attention won’t be good.
If your neighborhood has a homeowners association, there may be rules that dictate exterior colors. Be sure to check the bylaws before making any decision. The same is true if your home is on the historical registry.
6. Size and Location of Home
How big is your home? Although dark hues make a home look smaller, using a dark color on a large structure can make it appear overwhelming. If your house is set back from the street, you might consider a brighter color to make it stand out.
7. Bring the Inside Out
The interior and exterior of your home should complement each other. You can pull the colors that you love in your home and use them outside, although they may need to be toned down. Doing this will unify your home with a cohesive design.
8. Light Matters
Once you have picked your color scheme, be sure to view your color swatches in varying degrees of light. The color may look different throughout the day. Shadows from trees may make a color look too dark, while bright sunshine may wash out a pale hue.
Dependable Home Services has been siding homes in the Richmond, Virginia, area for more than 25 years. We want to help make your siding goals come to life. Contact us today at (804) 334-6839 for a free siding consultation.