From classic to bold, showcase your style with inspiration from these exterior paint color schemes that offer serious curb appeal.
How to Pick Home Exterior Paint Colors
Choosing exterior colors for your house can be one of the biggest design decisions you ever make, as they’re a major factor in its overall look and feel. Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to make the decision less daunting. TESTIMONIALS
When choosing a color palette for your home
there are three elements to consider: the main or field color, the accent color and the trim color. Scope out your neighborhood for field color inspiration; if your neighbors’ homes feature mostly muted hues, neutrals and earth tones will be your best bet so your house doesn’t look out of Place .
Accent colors are where you can have some fun;
consider pairing a white or gray field color with a bold yellow FRONT DOOR , or a brown or beige field color with cheerful green SHUTTER . For the , TRIM white looks clean and crisp against just about any exterior, but brown, black and gray can also complement many color schemes.
Now that you know the basics
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Perfect — using a solid stain on the entire house is a great choice for long-lasting color and protection, especially on wood siding, decks, and fences. Here’s a full step-by-step guide so your job comes out clean, even, and professional-grade 👇
🧰 TOOLS & MATERIALS
- Power washer (1300–2500 PSI)
- Scrub brushes & extension pole
- Exterior cleaner or bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water)
- Painter’s tape & drop cloths
- Sandpaper or sander (60–80 grit for rough areas)
- Caulk, putty, wood filler (for repairs)
- Solid stain (oil- or acrylic-based)
- Paint sprayer, roller (¾” nap), or brush
🧼 STEP 1: PREP THE SURFACE
- Power Wash Entire House
- Use a 25° or 40° nozzle.
- Start from bottom to top with cleaner, then rinse top to bottom.
- Pressure: 1300–1600 PSI for wood, up to 2000 PSI for harder siding.
- Remove all dirt, mold, and loose paint/stain.
- Let dry at least 48 hours before staining.
- Repair & Sand
- Replace rotted or damaged wood.
- Lightly sand to remove rough spots, splinters, or peeling paint.
- Spot-sand shiny or glossy areas so stain adheres evenly.
- Mask & Protect
- Cover windows, trim, light fixtures, plants, and concrete with plastic or paper.
🎨 STEP 2: APPLY THE SOLID STAIN
- Stir Thoroughly
- Mix the stain well before and during application to keep color consistent.
- Application Tools
- Spray and back-brush for the smoothest, most even finish.
- You can also use a roller and brush if you don’t spray.
- Technique
- Work from top down (gables → walls → trim → bottom).
- Apply with the grain of the wood.
- Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks.
- Two coats are recommended for best durability and uniform color.
- Drying Time
- Allow 4–6 hours between coats (check manufacturer’s label).
- Don’t stain in direct sunlight or when rain is expected within 24 hours.
🏠 STEP 3: FINISH TRIM, DECK, PORCH & FENCE
You can use the same solid stain color or coordinate:
- Trim: lighter or darker shade for contrast.
- Deck/Porch: same product, but ensure it’s rated for horizontal surfaces.
- Fence: apply with sprayer or roller, one or two coats depending on coverage.
🌦️ FINAL TIPS
- Ideal temperature: 50°F–85°F (10°C–29°C).
- Humidity under 70% for best drying.
- Clean tools with soap and water (for acrylic stains) or mineral spirits (for oil-based).
- Maintain by washing once a year; recoat every 5–7 years as needed.