Choosing paint colors can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. To make the process easier, here are some tips to guide you through selecting the perfect paint for your home.
1. Understand How Paint Finishes Affect Color
The finish you choose significantly impacts the look and durability of your paint. Here’s a breakdown of the most common finishes and where they work best:
-
Flat/Matte Finish
- Adds a rich, elegant look.
- Hides surface imperfections, making it ideal for exterior walls.
- Porous and absorbs stains, so avoid using it in high-traffic areas.
- Cannot be washed but allows for easier touch-ups.
- Works best for ceilings and surfaces where a dull texture is preferred.
- Some products labeled as “washable matte” are still less durable than other finishes.
-
Eggshell/Low Luster Finish
- Perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Slightly more durable and less porous than flat paint.
- Can highlight surface flaws, so smooth walls are ideal.
- A popular choice for exterior painting.
-
Semi-Gloss Finish
- Enamel-based, creating a hard, durable surface.
- Has a noticeable gloss and is easy to clean.
- May showcase surface flaws.
- Best for doors, windows, and trim.
-
Glossy/High-Gloss Finish
- Smooth, durable, and highly reflective.
- Resists dust and dirt, making it easy to maintain.
- Typically used for doors, windows, and trim.
2. Think About the Mood You Want to Create
Color has a significant impact on how a room feels. When selecting your paint:
- Bright, bold colors energize and invigorate a space, making it lively and dynamic.
- Soft, subdued hues bring a calming and serene effect, ideal for bedrooms or relaxation areas.
3. Plan Your Room’s Color Scheme
Knowing your room’s color scheme is crucial when selecting paint colors. Use a reference point like a favorite pillow, fabric pattern, or inspiration photo. Here are three popular schemes to consider:
-
Complementary Colors: Opposites on the color wheel, such as red and green, create bold contrasts.
-
Analogous Colors: Neighboring colors on the wheel, like warm oranges and yellows or cool blues and greens, produce harmonious and soothing palettes.
-
Neutral Colors: Timeless choices like taupes, creams, and grays pair well with most decor styles.
- Complimentary colors opposite each other on the color wheel: red and green
- Analogous colors on the same side of the color wheel: warm or cool
- Neutral: taupes, cremes, grays, etc
4. Consider Adjacent Rooms
When painting one room, think about how the color will look next to the adjacent spaces. Maintaining a cohesive flow between rooms is especially important for open-concept homes.
5. Factor in Lighting
Lighting dramatically changes how paint colors appear. Evaluate the type of lighting in the area:
-
Natural Light: Shows colors in their truest form.
-
Incandescent Light: Highlights warm and yellow tones.
-
Fluorescent Light: Adds a sharp, cool blue hue.
6. Don’t Skip the Primer
Primer is essential, especially for exterior painting. It blocks out the old paint color and provides a strong base, ensuring your new color is vibrant, even, and long-lasting.
7. Test Paint Color Samples
Always test a variety of paint samples on the area you plan to paint. Seeing how the colors look on the actual surface will give you a better sense of how they’ll work in your space.
8. Be Patient and Take Notes
Allow paint samples to fully dry before making a decision. Observe how they look over a few days in different lighting conditions. Keep notes on the back of each paint card to track your preferences.
If you need more info, contact us!
Choosing the right paint colors doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering finishes, lighting, and color schemes, you can transform your home into a space that reflects your style. Whether you’re updating your interior or tackling an exterior painting project, following these tips will ensure your project is a success.