We sat down with Wendy, color expert from Hirshfield's and our very own Yvonne, project manager and design consultant from Brush Masters to discuss exterior paint, colors, sheen and a little science behind it all.
Watch Video of Conversation Here
Q: Hi! Can you introduce yourselves and tell us what we'll be discussing today?
Wendy: Hi! I'm Wendy with Hirshfield's.
Yvonne: And I'm Yvonne with Brush Masters. We're excited to talk about the new exterior color trends coming up for the season.
Q: What can you tell us about the new color collection from Hirshfield's?
Wendy: This is a new "REFINED" color collection featuring 132 very usable and gorgeous colors. If you are looking for some deep exterior colors, we've got you covered. For example, Garden Moss is a beautiful moss color with a hint of lemon, and Chance is a classic, timeless navy.
Q: Are there any current trends you’re seeing in exterior colors?
Wendy: Yes, there is a really interesting trend happening with purples. Colors like Mulberry and Mission Fig are becoming popular. We’ve also noticed a demand for muted, rich reds. For instance, a neighbor recently painted their house and garage a barn red, but it's richer and looks stunning with cream trim.
Q: What about the classic trends? Are they still in style?
Wendy: Absolutely. We’ve seen many white houses with black windows, and now people are adding deep, dark colors like navy, black, and charcoal gray. These colors are timeless and add personality without standing out too much.
Q: How important is the quality of paint for exterior projects?
Wendy: The quality of paint is crucial. You’re not repainting your house every other year but rather every 10-15 years, you want something that lasts. Using 100% acrylic paint and high-quality bases like Benjamin Moore Aura or Hirshfield's Platinum Exterior ensures longevity, especially for exterior colors which need durability against fading.
Q: Can you tell us about the trend in yellow exterior colors?
Yvonne: We’ve seen some interesting yellows, like Derm Wheat and Aberdeen. These yellows have a bit of gray or green, making them unique. Adding a punch of color to the front door, like a vibrant yellow, can make a house feel inviting and full of personality.
Q: What are some popular front door colors right now?
Yvonne: Bright and inviting colors like sunshiny yellow are popular. There's also a fun science behind front door colors and what they say about your personality. Personally, I change my front door color often, depending on my mood.
Q: Are there any colors that can change with light?
Wendy: Yes, Benjamin Moore has a collection called Color Stories designed to change with the light. These colors use various pigments, so they subtly change throughout the day as the light shifts.
Q: How do you ensure the exterior color choices are cohesive with the rest of the house?
Yvonne: It’s important to consider elements like roof color, stonework, brick, and landscaping. Even the driveway material can impact color choices. For example, dark colors like black for the roof are timeless and neutral, working well with various exterior colors.
Q: What are some tips for choosing blue exterior colors?
Wendy: For blue exteriors, it's best to choose a shade with some gray in it. Bright blues can appear even brighter outside, so muting the color down is key. Doing a sample test on the house is always recommended to see how the color looks in natural light.
Q: Can exterior colors be used inside as well?
Yvonne: Absolutely! The usability of these colors extends indoors as well. For instance, the colors in this collection can be used for both exteriors and interiors, offering versatility and continuity throughout the home.
Q: Can you explain the science behind choosing the right exterior paint?
Wendy: Sure! The raw materials and base of the paint make a big difference in its longevity and appearance. For example, 100% acrylic paint provides excellent durability. Colorants are also important; for exterior use, adding a bit of gray to reds or making them more earthy helps improve their longevity. Bright colors without this adjustment tend to fade faster.
Exterior paints are formulated to withstand extreme temperatures and protect against harsh weather conditions. The softer resins in these paints provide the necessary flexibility to prevent chipping and peeling, which is crucial for maintaining the beauty of your home over time.
Resistance is key when it comes to exterior paints—resistance to discoloration, dirt, and the harmful effects of sunlight. Additives are essential here, offering UV protection to prevent colors from fading under the sun’s harsh rays. And when it rains, modern exterior paints are designed to let your walls breathe, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mildew and damage. These features ensure that your home stays looking beautiful and well-protected year after year.
Q: Can you explain the science behind different paint sheens?
Wendy: Sure! Flat paint has a sophisticated look, but it's less durable outdoors because it absorbs more dirt and moisture. As you move to satin, eggshell, and gloss finishes, the paint becomes more reflective, which helps it shed dirt and water more easily. Gloss finishes are particularly durable but can be challenging to apply perfectly because they show every imperfection. We typically suggest a flat or satin.
Q: Any final tips for homeowners choosing exterior colors?
Wendy: When choosing exterior colors, consider longevity and quality. For vibrant colors like red and yellow, adding some earthy tones can improve durability. Also, always test colors with samples to see how they look in different lighting conditions.
Yvonne: And remember, the right color can make your home look beautiful and inviting, reflecting your personal style.
Q: Thank you both for sharing your insights! Any closing thoughts?
Wendy: Thanks for having us! This new collection is phenomenal, and we love all the beautiful colors.
Yvonne: Yes, it's been fun sharing these trends. Happy painting!