The Importance of Your Exterior Paint Colors
A Different Kind of Value in Exterior Colors
There are many ways to add a statement of color to the exterior of your home. From dark vs. light colors to the exposure of your home and quality of paint you select – your exterior paint colors (and products!) are extremely important.
Dark vs. Light
Colors have different values. When we refer to the value of a color we are talking about the lightness and darkness of a color. Also, within colors we have inorganic and organic colors (these might seem a little opposite, as they did to me). Inorganic colors are those that are ‘earthy’ in color – beiges, browns, tans, mossy-greens, etc. Organic colors are reds, blues, greens and yellows – more vibrant, intense colors.
When choosing your exterior paint colors, take the above and below information into consideration for increased longevity. Lighter, inorganic colors will last longer than darker, organic colors. This is based on dark (organic) colors absorbing more UV rays and, in turn, more heat. Darker colors are going to fade faster, absorb more heat creating more moisture or condensation. They are still great to use, however, just understand that they will need repainted sooner and touch-ups become considerably more noticeable.
Exposure and Material Being Painted
A major factor in dryer, warmer climates is exposure to the sun and environmental elements. Here in Colorado, our environment is extreme. We go from 90+ degrees in the summer to highs in the 20’s through the winter. On top of that, we are at a higher altitude meaning the UV rays that reach us are far more intense. Your South and West facing walls are going to take a greater beating than your North and East facing walls. Wind, rain, hail and snow will tend to come from the West, while the sun is always located to our South. These surfaces will be the first to fade and breakdown so choose wisely.
High-Quality Paint for Exteriors
High-quality paint is more expensive and can even double the cost of the paint charge reflected on your estimate. However, would you rather pay an extra $600 now? Or, another $3,000.00 to have your home repainted within 5 years?
High-quality paints are made from higher quality ingredients. Better resins, bonding agents, colorants and a tighter molecular build all combine to make high-quality exterior paints more than worth the money. You will absolutely gain a couple more years of durability, color retention and most importantly, protection from the elements.
Oh yeah, and the top-of-the-line paints typically come with a Lifetime Warranty!
What We Recommend:
If you desire an organic, darker color (which I have to say I’m partial to) just be aware that you will have to be ready to repaint sooner and be more proactive with maintaining the paint job (i.e., power washing). Do your best to select high-quality paint (even a mid-grade paint is better than contractor) so you gain years of longevity from your exterior paint.
