How To Choose Exterior Paint Colours
Deciding on an exterior paint colour can be tricky. If you're contemplating the colour-wheel, follow our quick read guide.
Unlike interior decorating you’ll typically view your building with maximum daylight - unless you’re spotlighting a façade at night. This means you can afford to go a shade or two darker than you might choose internally.
Similarly, it's worth thinking about the aspect of your building. The appearance of a north-facing facade will be quite different to a south-facing elevation enjoying full sun all day. When it comes to colour choice, this means that cool colours may look cooler and rather flat in a north-facing situation, so consider a colour with warm undertones of pink or yellow. Alternatively, embrace the limited light and opt for a striking scheme of dark charcoal.
What Colour Should I Use?
The colour you choose should ideally add to your outdoor space rather than detract from it. So, if you're painting walls, fencing or railings, consider the accent colours already present within the surrounding garden planting, entrance door, etc. Do you want to create a striking contrast, or do you favour a more harmonious scheme?
The soft, warm tone of the render on this beautiful orangery by Colbran & Wingrove was chosen to tie in with the Indian sandstone patio, whilst the choice of grey Anthracite for the window and door system the complements the slate roofing.
Does Location Make a Difference?
Coastal buildings are the most likely to use vibrant colours. A row of Victorian terraces in varied hues from pink to blue isn't an unusual find in seaside towns such as Eastbourne. It's thought that the reason for this in the past, is so that fishermen returning to shore could easily spot their homes as they approached the shoreline.
In contrast, non-coastal cities, towns and villages have often traditionally favoured more muted shades of red, brown and beige. Importantly, if your building is listed or within a conservation area, you will need to check whether you need to gain consent from your local authority.
Opting for Contrast or Harmony?
You might also think about whether you want your property to stand out from its neighbours, or envisage it gently blending in with the surrounding vernacular. Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce chose ‘Soft Truffle’ for their renovation work by Colbran & Wingrove to help the Eastbourne UnLtd building in the town centre stand out whilst at the same time respect its Victorian heritage.
Finally, bear in mind your interior scheme. Do you want to create a flow between the two spaces with shared tones or specific colours? Choosing the same colour for the exterior or a feature on the exterior and bringing it indoors can be really effective.
This contemporary extension in Eastbourne by Colbran & Wingrove illustrates this trick perfectly. The brick exterior continues inside on one wall whilst the black soffits and downpipe help reinforce the contemporary styling throughout the property.
When Is A Good Time To Do Exterior Decorating?
Most paints can't be applied in temperatures below 5oC, or if there's a risk of rain or frost, so the weather does play a part.
You can expect to gain around 10 to 15 years' protection from the elements. But this is only achieved with thorough preparatory work.
We have over half a century of experience in construction spanning all types of projects and are here if you require help. Give our team a call 01323 729025 to chat through your thoughts and questions or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..