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With summer less than two months away, it’s time to think about making your home the star of the block. As the days grow longer and your landscaping bursts into bloom, your home’s exterior deserves a refresh that matches the vibrance of the season. And what’s the easiest way to boost curb appeal and make your house feel brand new? A fresh coat of paint.
But before you grab a brush and dive in, let’s talk strategy. Choosing the right colors can make or break your home’s first impression. The trick is to pick hues that not only stand out but also complement the lush greenery and colorful garden blooms that summer brings. Whether you’re going for bold and bright or cool and classic, I’ve got you covered with fresh ideas—and even a few tried-and-true paint codes to make the decision easier.
1. The Classic Charm: White with Bold Accents
Why It Works:
Nothing beats the timeless beauty of a crisp white house. It reflects the summer sun, keeping your home cool while giving off a clean, fresh vibe. But white alone can feel a little too basic—so why not spice it up with bold accents?
Best Color Combos:
- Main Color: Try a warm white like Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) or a cooler option like Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117).
- Accent Colors: Add drama by painting your shutters, trim, or front door with:
🎨 Pro Tip: Use a high-quality exterior paint with UV protection to keep whites looking bright and accents bold all summer long. A semi-gloss finish on the trim adds durability and a subtle sheen that stands up to the elements.
2. Cool and Coastal: Shades of Blue and Gray
Why It Works:
Blues and grays bring to mind ocean breezes and beach vacations, making them perfect for a summer-ready exterior. These shades not only complement the summer sky but also highlight the greenery and colorful flowers in your landscaping.
Top Color Combos:
- Soft Gray with White Trim: Go for Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015) paired with bright white trim like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) for a fresh, airy look.
- Navy Blue with Gray Accents: Deep navy such as Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244) with soft gray accents like Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray (HC-170) creates a sophisticated, coastal feel.
- Sky Blue with White Accents: A lighter option like Behr Bluebird (MQ3-25) with clean white trim makes for a cheerful, breezy vibe.
🎨 Supply Tip: Don’t skimp on quality brushes and rollers for these cooler hues. Blues and grays often require multiple coats for full coverage, so invest in high-density rollers and angled brushes for trim.
3. Earthy Elegance: Greens and Neutral Tones
Why It Works:
Earthy, nature-inspired colors like sage, olive, and taupe blend seamlessly into lush summer landscapes. These shades create a calm and inviting atmosphere while making your home look effortlessly connected to the outdoors.
Best Color Combinations:
- Sage Green with Cream Trim: Consider Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage (HC-114) paired with a soft cream like Sherwin-Williams Dover White (SW 6385) for a gentle, natural look.
- Olive Green with Dark Brown Accents: Try Behr Vine Leaf (N400-7) with rich brown shutters in Sherwin-Williams Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) for a more dramatic, grounded feel.
- Beige with Soft Green Trim: A classic neutral like Benjamin Moore Grant Beige (HC-83) with sage trim provides an understated elegance.
🎨 Pro Tip: When using earthy tones, opt for a satin or eggshell finish for the main body to maintain a soft, natural sheen that blends beautifully with outdoor surroundings.
4. Bold and Beautiful: Vibrant Yellows and Oranges
Why It Works:
If you’re ready to go bold, vibrant yellows and warm oranges bring energy and fun to your exterior. These sunny shades are perfect for summer and immediately make your home feel cheerful and welcoming.
Top Color Combos:
- Golden Yellow with White Trim: Opt for Benjamin Moore Hawthorne Yellow (HC-4) with crisp white trim like Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005).
- Terracotta with Cream Accents: Consider Behr Spiced Brandy (S220-6) paired with soft cream accents for a warm Mediterranean feel.
- Burnt Orange with Charcoal Gray Accents: Try Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay (SW 7701) paired with Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166) for a modern, earthy contrast.
🎨 Supply Tip: Bright hues need a good primer to prevent uneven coverage. Opt for a tinted primer that matches the base color of your paint to achieve rich, even saturation.
5. Modern Minimalism: Black, Charcoal, and Cool Whites
Why It Works:
If sleek and sophisticated is your style, a modern minimalist palette of black, charcoal, and cool whites will give your home a bold, contemporary edge. This high-contrast look feels striking yet elegant.
Best Color Combinations:
- Charcoal Gray with White Trim: Try Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069) with a clean white trim such as Benjamin Moore Oxford White (CC-30).
- Matte Black with Natural Wood Accents: Go bold with Behr Carbon (N520-7) and let natural wood elements soften the look for a perfect balance.
- Cool White with Black Trim: Consider Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White (CC-20) with sleek black accents for a striking, modern finish.
🎨 Pro Tip: Use a durable exterior paint formulated for high contrast. Dark colors can fade faster in direct sunlight, so look for paints with UV protection to maintain vibrancy.
🎯 Essential Supplies to Get the Job Done Right
To achieve a flawless exterior, you’ll need more than just the right colors. Here’s a quick checklist of must-have supplies:
- High-Quality Exterior Paint: Choose paints specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and UV rays.
- Primer: Always use a primer, especially when switching between dark and light colors.
- Paint Brushes & Rollers: Angled brushes for trim and high-density rollers for smooth, even coverage.
- Painter’s Tape: Protect trim, windows, and other delicate areas.
- Drop Cloths: Keep those flower beds safe from drips and splashes.
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Paint
Summer is the perfect season for exterior painting. Warmer temperatures and dry conditions create the ideal environment for paint to cure properly, ensuring a long-lasting finish. Plus, with summer entertaining just around the corner, a fresh exterior is the perfect backdrop for barbecues, garden parties, and relaxing evenings outdoors.
If a full exterior repaint feels overwhelming, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Chagrin Falls Painting specializes in helping homeowners transform their exteriors with high-quality, durable paint that stands up to the summer heat. Our team knows how to bring out the best in your home while ensuring a flawless finish that lasts.
Ready to Boost Your Curb Appeal? Let’s Get Started!
Whether you’re opting for a timeless white with bold accents, a cozy earth-toned palette, or something bold and modern, there’s a perfect summer-ready look waiting for your home. A fresh coat of paint doesn’t just protect your home—it gives it a whole new personality.
So why wait? Summer is almost here, and your home deserves to shine as bright as the season. If you’re ready to boost your curb appeal and give your home a stunning new look, CFalls Painting is just a call away. Let’s make your home the envy of the neighborhood this summer!
Views Expressed Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and information presented in this article are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of Chagrin Falls Painting. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Chagrin Falls Painting is not liable for any errors, omissions, or decisions made based on the content provided. Readers are encouraged to consult professionals for specific advice or assistance related to their unique circumstances.