Seven Exterior Color Dos and Don’ts

Looking to boost your curb appeal? A striking exterior color scheme can take your home from forgettable to picture-worthy. This video by Better Homes and Gardens presents seven exterior color dos and don’ts:

With these ideas, you can be confident in choosing exterior color combos that put your home’s best facade forward.

1. Don’t overlook colors in favor of plain neutrals. A cheerful apricot exterior with green accents is a fresh take on a traditional white farmhouse. The yellow undertones craft a warm exterior.

2. Do mix flat and shiny surfaces when painting your exterior. Use flat finishes on the body of your house and use shiny finishes to highlight millwork.

3. Do repeat. Gray-green paint on the window sashes and front door pops against the other colors without being overbearing.

4. Do look to your landscape for color inspiration. Green, brown and coppery tones that appear in nature always work well together.

5. Don’t always blend in. Choose a front door color that contrasts with your home’s siding but coordinates with an element on your exterior.

6. Do try a dark color scheme by painting two-thirds of the exterior in a dark hue and one-third in a lighter tone. Coffee brown and white colors keep the exterior simple but striking.

7. Don’t overlook wood finishes as they’ll contribute color to the mix. This deck plays off the roof’s copper hues and soften the home’s contrasting colors.