Changing the appearance of your home is now simpler than ever. By simply changing the color of your siding, you can give your home a fresh and updated look that will grab attention. Whether you want to improve your home’s curb appeal or create a completely new aesthetic, changing your siding color can quickly breathe new life into your home. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of selecting the perfect siding color for your home. From timeless neutrals to bold and vibrant options, we will explore the latest trends and advice to help you make an informed choice. We will also discuss the various types of siding materials available, such as vinyl, fiber cement, and wood, and examine their influence on color choices. Learn how a fresh coat of siding can completely transform your home’s appearance and increase its value. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey of visual exploration as we lead you step by step in finding the perfect siding color for your dream home.
The importance of siding color
Color is closely tied to many aspects of human experience, including human behavior, emotions, mood, mental health, culture, ethnicity, and traditions. Each tradition has a distinct color palette carefully chosen to set a mood for each occasion.
Specific colors are selected by taking into account the nuances each color conveys and the emotional response it elicits in individuals. Studies have shown that even the color of your walls can affect your mood. Additionally, the brightness and saturation of a color can impact our perception of a room’s size and depth.
Understanding the scientific principles of color enables us to design a living environment that not only appears aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to our physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, it is essential to consider color science when choosing wall colors, as each hue can affect your mood differently.
Wall color is important because it can impact the appeal, value, and character of your home:
Appeal
The color of your walls is the first thing potential buyers notice, so making a good impression is crucial. Neutral colors are generally appealing, but bold colors can also be used tastefully.
When it comes to increasing your property value and curb appeal, the color of your new walls plays a crucial role. The right siding color can significantly impact potential buyers, increase the overall market value of your home, and affect its energy efficiency. This is especially true when selling a home. The interior of your home may be the focal point, but the exterior sets the tone. Everything from landscaping to siding can affect the value of your home based on curb appeal.
Curb appeal is the value of a home’s attractiveness from the street’s perspective. Exterior design projects aimed at increasing curb appeal, such as changing the color of your exterior siding, can influence your home’s standing in the housing market.
Value
Siding color can greatly impact the resale value of your home. For instance, homes with gray/brown siding sell for an average of about $1,500 more than brown homes. While the color of your exterior siding can potentially enhance curb appeal and, therefore, the value of your home, it can also potentially decrease the value of your home. It is important to not only select a color but also an exterior design and remodeling company that can assist you in achieving the best effect with your home’s exterior siding.
The color you choose for your home’s exterior siding plays a significant role in determining the value of your home. If you deviate too far from the norm in your area, you may limit the number of potential buyers when you’re ready to sell. Buyers who do end up making an offer may even ask for a price reduction to repaint or replace the exterior siding.
Character
The color of your siding can evoke emotions and influence the way buyers perceive your home. Some colors are vibrant and cheerful, while others are darker and more contemporary.
The value, appearance, and appeal of your home are all influenced by the color of your siding. In subtle ways, the color of your siding also affects the character of your home.
Some colors are lively and cheerful, while others are darker and more modern. Some colors are bold and vibrant while others are subdued, blending into the background. What kind of home do you want to live in?
Architectural features
The correct siding color can improve architectural features and establish a balanced harmony with other elements on the exterior of your home. The initial impression people receive from the outside of your home is greatly influenced by the siding color, creating a visually appealing and welcoming environment.
The appropriate siding color can improve architectural features, accentuate textures, and establish a balanced harmony with other elements of your home’s exterior. It is essential to select colors that not only align with your personal preferences but also complement your overall style and surroundings.
Also, keep in mind that professional color specialists can assist in guiding your choices for wall colors. They can offer customized colors to match existing wall coverings as well as new colors based on your preferences.
Energy efficiency
The color of your exterior walls can also impact the energy efficiency of your home. Each color has a distinct wavelength, which determines its interaction with sunlight. Dark colors, such as navy or tan, absorb more heat from the sun, leading to higher indoor temperatures, particularly during the summer months. This means that your air conditioning system needs to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, resulting in increased energy usage and higher utility bills.
When selecting a wall color, you may want to consider:
Complementary shades
Choose a complementary color palette that does not clash with your surroundings. To find the right colors for your home, take into account the popular colors in your neighborhood. While being bold is not always unfavorable, it is generally best to stay within a similar range as your neighbors in order to enhance curb appeal. Preferred exterior home colors vary significantly by geographic region.
Beige. This natural color blends well with your landscape and complements brick and stone.
Gray. This neutral option is available in various shades, from light to dark. Gray makes your home’s trim stand out and pairs well with almost any other color.
Reds and browns. These warm colors are particularly prevalent in rural areas, lake communities, and cottages, but they also complement other home styles.
Blues. Homes with gray and black accents are well-suited to blue siding, while white and natural blue trim can create a timeless combination.
Timeless colors
Consider bold, timeless colors to maximize your home’s value.
Light colors
Light colors like white, ivory, pale gray, and sage green can make your home appear more spacious, brighter, and more inviting.
Earth tones
Earthy browns and sage greens can complement nearly any trim color and update older homes.
Selecting the appropriate siding color for your house
Selecting the right color for your home’s siding is a critical decision that can significantly impact its overall appearance and appeal. The chosen color should align with the architectural style of your home, complement the surrounding landscape, reflect your personal taste, and enhance architectural features.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Color for Your Exterior Walls
The initial impression people have of your home from the outside is greatly influenced by the siding color, creating a visually appealing and welcoming environment.
The right siding color can improve architectural features, accentuate textures, and establish a balanced harmony with the rest of your home’s exterior elements. It is crucial to choose a color that not only aligns with your personal preferences but also complements the overall style and environment.
Also, keep in mind that professional color specialists can help guide your siding color choices. They can provide custom colors to match existing siding, as well as new colors based on your preferences.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Wall Colors
Home Design and Architectural Style
When selecting siding colors, it’s important to take into account the architectural style of your home. Different architectural styles have unique characteristics that can influence the colors you choose. For instance, a traditional colonial home may look best with classic, neutral colors, while a modern home may benefit from vibrant, daring colors.
Understanding how your home’s architectural style impacts your color choices can help you create a unified and visually pleasing exterior. Victorian homes often incorporate a mix of colors to showcase intricate details, while Craftsman homes typically feature earthy tones that blend with the natural surroundings.
Harmonizing with Architectural Styles
Exploring siding options that harmonize with various architectural styles will provide you with a range of choices. For example, if you have a Mediterranean-style home, you might want to consider stucco siding in warm, earthy tones to complement the style’s rustic charm.
Surroundings and Landscape
When choosing siding colors, it’s important to take into consideration the natural surroundings and landscaping of your property. You can opt for colors that blend in with the surroundings or choose contrasting colors to create an attention-grabbing effect.
Take into account the natural elements around your home, such as trees, plants, and earthy tones. If your property is surrounded by lush greenery, earthy and neutral colors may work well.
Deciding whether to match or contrast your siding color with your surroundings depends on the aesthetic you want to achieve. Matching colors can create a serene look, while contrasting colors can add a bold, eye-catching touch to your home.
Personal Style and Preference
Your personal style and preferences should be a significant factor in determining the right siding colors. Your home is a reflection of your personality, and choosing colors that resonate with you will ensure that you feel connected to your living space.
Take into account your individual style and the general atmosphere you want to establish. If you prefer a modern, minimalist look, opting for a monochromatic color scheme or soft neutrals may be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, you may want to explore bold colors that make a statement.
To find a color palette that aligns with your preferences, seek inspiration from sources such as magazines, online platforms, and physical samples. Take note of the colors that capture your attention and evoke the emotions and moods you want your home to convey.
Popular siding color trends
By understanding different color palettes and schemes, you can develop a harmonious and visually appealing exterior. Let’s explore some popular options.
Monochromatic Color Schemes
A monochromatic color scheme involves using multiple shades of a single color. This approach creates a sleek, modern look and is a great choice for homeowners who prefer simplicity and elegance.
With a monochromatic color scheme, you select a base color and incorporate lighter and darker shades of that color for various elements of your home’s exterior. This approach results in a cohesive and visually pleasing appearance.
Monochromatic color schemes are well-suited to modern architectural styles. By utilizing shades of the same color, you can achieve a sleek and sophisticated look that exudes contemporary elegance.
Complementary Color Palettes
A complementary color palette involves using colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. This creates a striking and coordinated visual effect, making the exterior of your home stand out.
When employing complementary colors, you can blend warm and cool colors to create dynamic contrast. For example, a blue wall can be paired with orange or yellow accents, producing an eye-catching effect.
A complementary color palette generates a striking visual effect by combining high-contrast colors. This approach adds brightness and energy to your home’s exterior, making it more visually appealing.
Analogous Color Schemes
A similar color scheme involves utilizing colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This creates a sense of harmony and cohesion, making the exterior of your home feel inviting and calming.
Analogous color schemes establish a unified, calming appearance by utilizing colors that naturally blend. This approach is perfect for homeowners who prefer a peaceful atmosphere.
Using Two Colors for Home Design
Using Two Colors for Siding and Trim
You may have observed a popular trend in home design, both inside and out: the use of two colors. According to House Beautiful magazine, the reason for this trend is that using two colors “adds depth and the appearance of architectural intricacy to a space.”
If you drive around neighborhoods where homeowners are embracing this trend, you will notice the added depth and complexity at play, and it can be quite impressive.
When it comes to painting the exterior of a home, there are generally three areas to consider: the main body, the accents, and the trim. The main body of the house, including the front, back, and sides, is the largest area to cover and provides the most grandeur.
A two-color paint scheme will be most effective for the main body of your home, and some homes are more suitable for a two-color scheme than others. Traditional split-level or raised ranch homes have inherent features that naturally lend themselves to additional hues. According to professional painters, incorporating a two-color scheme is about emphasizing the natural features of your home, whether it involves highlighting two levels or different textures.
Factors to consider when selecting a siding color
When it comes to siding colors, there are numerous options to consider. Let’s explore some popular choices and the impacts they can have.
Bold Colors
Bold colors are daring and attention-grabbing choices that can make your home stand out. These colors can add vibrancy and personality to your home’s exterior. However, it’s crucial to use them thoughtfully so they don’t detract from the overall design.
Colors like vibrant red, deep blue, or sunny yellow can be used to create a focal point or draw attention to a specific architectural feature. These colors work well for homes with sleek lines or modern designs.
When using bold colors, it’s important to balance them with more neutral or complementary colors. Consider using them as accents or in smaller areas on the exterior of your home to create visual interest without dominating the entire facade.
Timeless and Neutral Colors
Timeless and neutral colors are enduring choices that offer versatility and sophistication. They can withstand changing trends and provide an elegant backdrop for other design elements.
Colors like white, cream, gray, or muted earth tones fall into the timeless and neutral category. These colors create a clean, refined look and can complement a variety of architectural styles.
Timeless, neutral colors are enduring and allow for flexibility in other design elements. They can also enhance the resale value of your home by appealing to a wider range of potential buyers.
Coordination with the Front Door, Trim, and Accents
Coordinating your siding color with your front door, trim, and accent colors can create a coherent and visually appealing exterior. A well-coordinated color scheme can tie all elements together and enhance the overall aesthetic.
Take into account the color of your front door, window trim, shutters, and other accents when choosing siding colors. You can select complementary colors that create a harmonious look or choose contrasting colors that make a statement.
Creating a Unified, Visually Appealing Exterior
A unified exterior color scheme ensures that all elements work together harmoniously. When the colors of your siding, front door, trim, and accents complement each other, they create a cohesive, visually pleasing look.
Using Color to Highlight Architectural Features
Color can be strategically used to emphasize the architectural features of your home. By choosing the right shade, you can accentuate textures, bring out details, and highlight unique features.
Choose siding colors that accentuate the textures and architectural details of your home. For instance, using a slightly darker color on a textured surface can make it stand out more, adding depth and visual interest to the facade.
Consider the texture of your siding material, such as wood grain or stone pattern, and choose colors that bring out those features. Using lighter colors can highlight the details in a textured surface, whereas darker colors can produce a bold contrast.
Enhancing Overall Aesthetic Appeal
When color is used to achieve visual equilibrium, it enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. Creating a visually appealing facade can have a significant impact on its appeal and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Preparing your home for a siding color change
These are some actions you can take to get your home ready for a change in siding color:
- Prepare the inside of your home
Shift any delicate items, such as photos, trinkets, and glass, away from the walls that will be getting new siding.
- Utilize a power washer
Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is a crucial step in preparing your home for new paint. It aids in paint adhesion and longevity.
- Trim foliage
Trim back any shrubs, trees, or overgrown bushes near your house. This prevents plants from touching the freshly painted surfaces and makes certain areas of your home more accessible.
- Turn off outdoor power
Your siding contractor may request that you turn off the power to any external electrical fixtures, such as lights. This ensures the safety of the installers by minimizing the risk of electrical shock.
- Clear your outdoor space
Remove any objects that might obstruct the work, such as furniture, plant pots, and toys.
- Mow your lawn
The siding team will use a magnetic nail finder to comb your lawn and remove any stray nails or debris.
- Ensure a clear path
Ensure that the path from the work area to the siding is unobstructed. This allows the contractors to freely access the driveway, walkways, and porches.
- Communicate with your contractor
Reach out to your contractor if you have any questions about the installation or if you’re unsure about anything for the start date.
DIY vs. hiring a professional for siding color change
If you are an experienced DIYer who has replaced old siding with new siding, then you likely possess the competence and confidence to do it yourself. The DIY approach often saves money, but it may take longer to complete and could extend beyond a weekend. A full-time professional may take several weeks to complete siding for a house, depending on its size and weather conditions, and that’s without accounting for the learning curve. If it takes a professional weeks to complete a house’s siding, your DIY project will likely exceed that timeframe. Choosing to work with a contractor can assist in maintaining the timeline for your siding project, but engaging a professional will result in added expenses. Siding contractors charge either an hourly rate or a flat fee, which can be more expensive than simply purchasing the materials and tools for a DIY project. Compare all the factors involved in DIY and hiring a professional for your siding project to understand the impact and benefits of each.
Not Suitable for Novices
If you have little to no experience installing siding in your home, it’s best to leave it to a trained siding contractor. Installing siding might seem relatively straightforward, but it’s not suitable for beginners. Working around corners, eaves, soffits, and fascias, as well as trimming openings like windows and doors, are all technical aspects of the project that can easily go wrong. If you opt to replace your siding yourself, you’ll need to determine whether to repair or remove the old siding and know how to repair or replace the exterior of your home if it has been damaged by mold, water, or pests. Do you have the knowledge to install the frieze board and sheathing for siding installation? You’ll also need to know which method is suitable for the type of siding you’ve chosen. You will require the skills and equipment to cut the siding to fit and then install it. When it comes to siding, it’s in your best interest and your home’s best interest to hire a professional.
Pros
Quick and easy to repair, replace, or repaint smaller sections
Lower cost
On your own schedule
No one to rely on but yourself
The fulfillment of finishing a project independently.
Cons
May lack the necessary knowledge and experience
Must obtain all the tools for cutting, installing, and mounting
Purchase your own materials
You may discover additional damage once you start replacing the siding
Mistakes can be easily made and are harder to rectify
If you decide to hire a contractor
When considering hiring a contractor, there are numerous factors to take into account for a siding project. These include using the appropriate tools for each material, employing effective sanding and installation techniques, and adding finishing touches to ensure proper installation. Engaging a contractor can guarantee that all these aspects are handled, but it’s important to make informed decisions before hiring a professional. Determine the type of siding you desire and research the best installation methods and the types of contractors suitable for the job. Utilize Porch to choose reputable, certified local contractors with favorable recommendations. Once you have shortlisted the best options, gather estimates from at least three contractors in your area. Establish the necessary services you require. Cost estimates from each contractor will provide a clear understanding of the budget required. While replacing or installing new siding can be a valuable investment, it can become costly if a prudent decision is not made when hiring a siding contractor. Prior to making a selection, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of involving a professional in your siding project.
Pros:
– A professional will possess proper licensing, bonding, and insurance.
– Legal protection is ensured through a signed contract.
– Expert knowledge of all aspects of siding.
– Comprehensive service from preparation to cleanup.
– A schedule and budget can be set based on the contractor’s terms and availability.
– Warranties and warranty conditions are provided.
– The professional will obtain necessary permits and adhere to building codes.
– Provision of all necessary equipment, tools, and materials.
Cons:
– High labor costs.
– Availability may be unpredictable.
– The professional’s work may differ from your preferences.
– In the case of an unprofessional contractor, termination of their services may be necessary.
Whether you opt for professional assistance or decide to tackle the project yourself, you are not only investing money but also your time, effort, and good judgment in enhancing your living space. Whether you are replacing a few cedar shingles, addressing deteriorating hardboard siding, or installing entirely new fiber cement siding, the goal is to ensure proper completion. The exterior of your home enhances its curb appeal and serves as a shield against external elements such as harsh weather conditions. If your siding project exceeds your skill level, entrust it to a professional to achieve high-quality results that meet your satisfaction.
Maintaining and preserving the new siding color
Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in prolonging the lifespan of your home’s exterior siding. Understand the significance of exterior siding care and the specific maintenance requirements for the materials safeguarding your home. Whether it’s fiber cement or cedar siding, the protective covering of your home necessitates proper care.
While siding maintenance may not be the most enjoyable Saturday morning activity, prioritizing it is essential if your siding has effectively safeguarded your home over time.
Continue reading for tips on caring for your home’s exterior siding that will maintain its appearance and protective function for years to come.
Guidelines for Caring for Your Home’s Specific Exterior Siding Materials:
Fiber Cement Siding:
Composed of cement, sand, and cellulose, fiber cement offers lasting protection for your home. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it appealing to homeowners. To ensure it maintains its high performance for up to 50 years, follow these steps:
– Inspect: Twice a year, examine the perimeter of your home’s exterior siding to identify vulnerable areas such as damaged caulk. If the caulk shows signs of wear, replace it with new caulk to maintain a sealed exterior against elements and pests.
– Wash: In spring and fall, use a garden hose to rinse off any dirt from your fiber cement siding, restoring its appearance. For more stubborn dirt, use a mild detergent, water, and a medium-bristled nylon brush. Clean the affected area by gently applying the soapy mixture in the direction of the siding installation, then rinse thoroughly.
– Repaint: If your home features James Hardie ColorPlus Technology, repainting should only be necessary every 15 years, almost twice as long as other siding materials. Other fiber cement products may require repainting after 10 years.
Cedar or Shake Siding
Cedar and shake siding are durable and fashionable wood materials that can be painted, treated, or left as is, depending on your desired look. They offer excellent noise reduction, insulation, and longevity. They require a bit more upkeep than other siding materials, but the beauty is definitely worth the investment! Here’s how to maintain your cedar or shake siding:
Examine – Inspect your cedar or shake siding for any signs of damage every spring and fall, as well as after major storms. Address any problems promptly to prevent bigger issues.
Clean – Use soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to clean your wood siding once a year.
Paint – Sand and paint or stain wood siding every two to five years.
Vinyl Siding
Insulated vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners as it conserves energy while enhancing the exterior of your home. Its easy maintenance is highly valued. Here’s how to care for it:
Examine – Walk around your home every spring and fall and check for warped or cracked exterior siding. Since vinyl siding cannot be repaired, any damaged sections will need to be replaced.
Clean – Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach on exterior siding. Cleaning vinyl with a solution of vinegar and water or dish soap and water works well. Choose a cloudy day to clean the exterior siding to prevent water spots caused by the sun evaporating the cleaning solution. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub one section of the exterior at a time. Rinse thoroughly.
Repaint – One of the most appealing aspects of vinyl siding is that it never requires repainting, saving you both time and money!
Engineered Wood Siding
The durability and damage resistance of synthetic wood products make them an appealing option for homeowners.
Examine – Twice a year, inspect the exterior of your home from the foundation to the roof, including the gutters.
Clean – Use a garden hose, sponge, and mild detergent to clean dirt from your siding twice a year. For mold stains, create a solution of three parts water and one part vinegar. Apply with a sponge, then rinse thoroughly.
Repaint – Check for peeling or cracking paint annually. Touch up your paint to maintain your home’s resistance to pests and moisture. LP SmartSide provides touch-up kits for quickly and easily fixing imperfections that have developed over the years.
Summary
Selecting the right siding color requires careful thought and planning. Whether for a renovation or new construction, siding color significantly impacts the overall aesthetic of your home. Therefore, considering the variety of colors available on the market, choose a color that matches your preferences and enhances your home’s architectural beauty.
Keep in mind that your ideal siding color may change over time. Imagining how it will affect your home’s appearance in different weather conditions or lighting settings can help you make the right decision. Ideally, choose colors that add depth and character to your home. Choosing the right siding color is undeniably important.
Lastly, regardless of the siding color you choose, it’s crucial that it complements other outdoor elements such as your roof, landscaping, or doors. Take your time, explore various siding color options, consider your surroundings, and choose one that best suits your home. This is not something you’ll likely do very often, so ensure your color choice is one that you’ll cherish for years to come.