Tag: Home exterior

Categories
Construction

The 5 best exterior paint finishes for homes

Giving your home exterior a fresh coat of paint provides many long-lasting benefits. Various exterior paint finish types add durability and aesthetic value to your home. Moreover, they can protect your home from weather damage while giving it a glow or a noticeable shine. 

In addition, the best finish for exterior paint can protect siding and trim and ensure longevity. This article will guide you through the most popular exterior paint finishes for homes to help you make the best choice for your house painting project.

Understanding paint finishes

A paint’s finish refers to its appearance when it has dried on the surface. The kind of exterior paint finish you choose will impact the longevity of your siding, trim, and other exterior surfaces. In addition, the right sheen can instantly boost your kerb appeal.

When painting a wall, it’s more crucial to choose the right exterior paint finish than to select an interior finish. The paint finish must withstand day-to-day atmospheric conditions such as cold and hot weather. Moreover, outside dirt and debris can whittle away at inflexible paint over time. 

Considerations when choosing a paint finish

A painter painting the exterior wall / Source: iStock

Exterior paint finishes vary in the ratio of resins, binders, and pigment levels in the paint. When choosing a paint finish for your home exterior makeover, consider these three factors:

  • Luster: This affects how much light reflects on the painted surface. Finishes with low reflectiveness are suitable for hiding blemishes. Meanwhile, finishes with high lustre are best for illuminating places with little sunlight.
  • Appearance: The appearance of paint varies upon drying and the level of sheen a finish has. Matte paint reduces glare and blends with surroundings due to its low reflectiveness. Glossy paint can bring emphasis to outdoor architectural details.
  • Wear and tear: High-traffic areas such as front doors may require paint with higher durability and sheen. More flexible paint finishes, such as semi-gloss, are resistant to stains and are easily wipeable. Less durable finishes, like eggshells, are better for siding.

Does exterior paint come in different finishes?

Yes, There are five exterior paint sheens typically used in homes. Deciding on the best paint finish for exterior walls can be confusing at first. Here is a simple guide comparing the most popular exterior paint finishes used in today’s homes. Each finish has unique advantages and disadvantages, so take note of the following comparisons in your next home makeover.

Best exterior paint finish types

Flat or Matte 

A professional painter using a paint roller / Source: iStock

If you are looking for the perfect paint finish for retouching your paint exterior, look no further than flat or matte finishes. Its velvety and non-reflective appearance can hide imperfections on older walls. This finish performs best on homes in sunny areas. In addition, flat paint finishes are not advisable on homes in harsh summers and winters due to their low durability.

Best recommended for: Concealing flaws on older wooden siding and trim. 

Advantages:
Fast drying time
Smooth texture
Goes well with contemporary homes
Easy to retouch		Disadvantages:
Tough to clean
Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
Unappealing on homes with no sunlight

Eggshell 

Eggshell paint finishes are one of the most popular choices for exterior home makeovers, thanks to it being within the right balance of flatness and sheen. Eggshell paint gives your home a gentle and pleasant glow. 

In comparison to matte paint, it is more resistant to harsh weather conditions under sunlit exteriors. In addition, eggshell paint lends itself well to outdoor DIY paint applications. 

Best recommended for: Low reflective finishes while also concealing small imperfections.

Advantages:
Subtly enhances trim details
Beginner-friendly application
Creates an inviting appearance on the exterior than flat paints		Disadvantages:

Challenging to touch up
Not as durable compared to gloss finishes

Satin

Painting the walls of a house beige / Source: iStock

If you are looking for a durable finish for your exterior, a satin paint finish is a great choice. Its moisture-resistant and reflective formulation makes it a versatile option for exterior as well as interior painting. 

Satin paint is resistant to dirt, mildew, and peeling. It’s also easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze. For the best results, satin paint must be mixed thoroughly before application to keep the formulation consistent.

Best recommended for: Achieving a balanced, long-lasting sheen on your trim. 

Advantages:
Durable and stain-resistant
Moderate sheen
Works well in hot climates		Disadvantages:

Requires thorough mixing to achieve a professional-looking finish

Semi-gloss

Semi-gloss paint is the way to go if you want to give your home exterior a noticeable shine. This is a good choice for painting over surfaces that may experience significant wear and tear, like trim, shutters, and front doors. The tough and shiny finish that semi-gloss paint has makes it easier to clean than satin or eggshell paint. 

Take note that semi-gloss paints are often oil-based, which may emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When using glossy paints, make sure that the surface is prepared well to prevent highlighting any dings or blemishes. 

Best recommended for: High-traffic areas such as garage doors, railings, and window frames.

Advantages:

High weather and moisture resistance
Great for high-traffic areas
Easy to clean		Disadvantages:
Challenging to apply
Makes imperfections more visible
Not suitable for large surfaces like siding
May contain environmentally harmful materials

High-gloss

Painting the garage door grey / Source: iStock

In terms of highlighting architectural details, nothing comes close to the sheen of high gloss paint. This type of sheen offers the greatest durability of all the finishes, making it a great option for emphasising intricate architectural details on your home exterior. 

However, high gloss paint can make a surface look plasticky when applied on a large exterior feature such as siding. Hence, it is typically used only for features such as trim and doors. Also note that richer paint, such as semi-gloss and high gloss paint, can chip away if not applied properly.

Best recommended for: Drawing attention to decorative features and accents.

Advantages:

Maximum durability
Rich colour on exterior details
Easy to maintain		Disadvantages:

Expensive
May highlight blemishes
Gives a plasticky appearance on large surfaces

Start planning for the perfect sheen

Colour is not the only consideration when choosing the perfect paint sheen for your home exterior. The right exterior paint finish can ensure your property is not only visually pleasing but also durable and gleaming just right.

Paint finishes are just as important in ensuring a home makeover that will last for years to come. Consult with a professional painter for your next house painting project for a successful painting job. 

FAQs on exterior paint finishes

Is low sheen or matte better for weatherboards?

Both finishes are good options for weatherboards. Low-sheen finishes such as eggshell paint can add a subtle shine to your weatherboards. This adds a layer of durability against the elements. Eggshell paint is also easier to clean than matte paint. On the other hand, matte paint is easier to apply. It requires fewer coats to paint and dries faster. 

What type of finish is best for exterior paint?

The best sheen for exterior painting depends on your personal preferences and project needs. 

If you live in a climate with harsh weather conditions, durable finishes such as satin or semi-gloss may be the better choice. Meanwhile, low-lustre paints like eggshell or matte are preferred for their ease of use. Semi-gloss or high-gloss finish are great choices if the surface you are painting tends to experience wear and tear. 

You can take your personal preferences and project requirements into account when considering the cost of professional painting.

Should exterior house paint be flat or satin?

Choosing flat or satin paint is a question of appearance and durability. Here’s a quick comparison between the two:

  • Flat paint helps your exterior achieve a more natural look. On the other hand, satin paint leaves an attractive glow on the surface. 
  • Flat paint is easier to apply, while satin paint has better cleanability. 
  • In mild weather conditions, flat paint can be a great option. However, satin paint is a better choice for homes in tougher weather conditions since it is more durable than the former.

Should exterior paint be gloss or satin?

While both are suitable choices for exterior painting, knowing the better choice will depend on the area being painted. High gloss finishes will look plasticky and unnatural on the siding, while satin paint is more understated and inviting. 

Moreover, using a high gloss paint is ideal for fences, doors, and other outdoor details. If you are looking for a more economical paint with a balanced sheen and durability, satin would be the better option. 

Categories
Construction

Moody house exterior paint colours

The exterior paint colours you choose for your home go beyond mere aesthetics; they shape the very mood and character of living spaces. Whether you opt for the allure of deep blues, the intensity of charcoal greys, or the warmth of earthy tones, your house exterior can make your property inviting and appealing. 

If you’re looking to paint your house yourself, then let us help you! In this guide, we will journey through different colour schemes for home exteriors. You can not only enhance your home’s aesthetics through paint but also breathe life into its unique charm.

9 Moody exterior house paint colour ideas

1. Midnight blue

Midnight blue house exterior / Source: iStock

Deep shades of blue can be reminiscent of nighttime, elegance, and a tinge of mystery. It’s best to pair this shade with lighter accent colours for a timeless and classic aesthetic. Opt for a colour palette of crisp whites or creams for your home’s different architectural features, such as the mouldings or posts, to better suit the midnight blue base colour.

2. Mystical grey

Mystical grey is a versatile colour between cool and warm undertones, creating an intriguing and ever-changing appearance. Painting your house exterior with grey paint is ideal for those looking to add a touch of mystery, modernity, and enigmatic charm to a home.

3. Forest green

Turn your home into something you and other people can find relaxing by painting your home exterior forest green. Not only do they make for great exterior house paint colours, but they also bring nature’s serenity and calm. Pair these colours with shades and hues you can easily find outdoors, like brown, yellow, or white. 

4. Charismatic charcoal

Modern house in white and charcoal colour palette / Source: iStock

The dark and brooding shades of charcoal black bring confidence and drama to your house. It’s not the usual shade homeowners go for, making it a bold choice for those who want to give a contemporary edge to their home’s exterior.

5. Bold maroon

If you want to make your home exterior a canvas for confidence and energy, try painting it a dark reddish purple like maroon. As a deep and sultry colour, maroon can effectively bring that luxurious yet at-ease feel to your house’s appearance. 

6. Rustic brown

If you’re going for a more vintage vibe, a dark, rustic brown or beige colour turns your home exterior into a warm, cosy property. It also provides a timeless design for your home that promotes an inviting and welcoming atmosphere when you pass it or stand by your front door. 

7. Muted sage

Big sage house with an entrance deck / Source: iStock

For a more subtle home that still captures visitors’ attention, muted sage can be your unique exterior paint colour scheme of choice. With its green base tones mixed with a bit of grey, this colour creates a calming sight and offers an understated exterior that blends well with the natural surroundings. 

8. Elegant aubergine

This rich, eggplant-inspired dark brownish-purple colour adds opulence and uniqueness to your home. It’s not a usual colour that homeowners request for their exterior, and that’s why it’s a bold choice that’s definitely eye-catching and leaves a lasting impression. This daring choice exudes luxury and creativity and elevates your home from ordinary to extraordinary.

9. Ocean teals

Teal, a light blue shade, makes the perfect house exterior paint colour if you’re after hues reflecting serenity and coastal charm. It’s a versatile colour that works well with different architectural styles and facades. Additionally, it is great to pair with neutral or pastel accents, such as in your window or front door trims. 

Tips for selecting a paint colour for your home’s exterior 

If you’re considering giving your home exterior a dark and moody makeover, you should keep a few things in mind.

Consider the surroundings

Before painting your home exterior, have a thoughtful look at your current neighbourhood and immediate surroundings. Your goal should be to ensure your home works with the environment, not clash with it.

Have complementary trim and accents

Choose complementary colours for trim, accents, and other exterior details to create contrast and enhance your property’s overall design. Lighter trim can provide balance and highlight architectural features.

Test different paint samples

Painting your home is a big decision. Before you commit to a specific colour, try out your desired colour on a small part of your exterior. Evaluate how it appears under different lighting conditions and weather patterns to ensure it maintains your desired effect.

Assess the climate in your area

Darker colours absorb more heat than lighter ones, which can affect the temperatures inside your home. Before fully committing to painting your house exterior, be prepared for the potential impact it can have on your home’s energy efficiency and subsequent costs of maintenance. 

Consult a professional 

If you’re still unsure about the best colour for your home exterior or the painting process, consider consulting a professional painter or a colour expert for guidance and cost inquiry. With their expertise in their craft, they can readily help walk you through the entire process so you can achieve the desired results.

Moody hues, endless possibilities 

Like light colours, deep and moody shades can create a sense of depth to any home exterior. Not only can they offer a cosy and unique atmosphere, but they help amplify its owners’ personality and character.

While the prospect of choosing and applying moody colours to your home’s exterior may seem daunting, the journey becomes infinitely easier with the help of professionals in the field. Their knowledge of colour selection, as well as precise execution, can turn your vision into a reality! 

FAQs on moody exterior paint colours

How do I choose exterior paint colour combinations?

Choosing exterior paint colour combinations involves considering your home’s architectural style, surroundings and the dominant colour for the main body of the house.

Select accent colours for trims and architectural details to provide contrast and ensure they complement the roof colour. Test paint samples in different lighting conditions and consider the climate’s impact on colour choices.

Should exterior paint be lighter or darker?

Exterior paint depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, architectural style, climate, and the effect you want to achieve.

Your personal style and aesthetic preferences play a significant role. Some people prefer the timeless, classic look of lighter shades, while others are drawn to the drama and depth offered by darker colours.

What is the best paint colour for a home exterior?

Versatile options include neutral tones, whites or creams, earthy colours, blues, greys, greens, reds, and even black or dark grey for accents. To make the right choice, consider your home’s features, surroundings, and climate, and test paint samples in different lighting conditions.

Categories
Doors & windows

What is an awning?

Awnings are an exceptional method of shading windows and outdoor areas. Luckily, there are many options available for homeowners.

Types of awning

There are many different types of awnings including:

Automatic: These are extremely popular types of awnings. Automatic models run on guides, so they can be easily adjusted to any entertaining area. Also, since they are available in a variety of lengths, automatic awnings are compatible with all homes.

Fixed Guide: These awnings are best when used on the upper levels of residences because they utilise guide bars that are permanently fixed. Fixed guide models are suitable for automation.

Heavy Drop: For a more European feel, heavy-drop-arm awnings can be adjusted within a 90-degree arc and can be motorised for additional convenience.

Retractable: Retractable awnings are ideal for patios and decks. They are installed directly onto the side of the house and extended to cover outdoor areas when necessary. When these are not being used, retractable awnings are stored inside the housing unit. These models area available in manual or automatic and can be customised for your specific needs. Additionally, retractable awnings are available in a variety of colours and patterns.

Straight Drop: As an alternative to verandah awnings, straight-drop models are recommended for pergolas, patios and verandahs. These models can be spring-loaded or have an attached gearbox.

Verandah: Finally, verandah awnings are the perfect choice for privacy and protection from the sun. They are typically operated through the use of pulleys. These are the most aesthetically pleasing of the group.

Materials used in awnings

There are several materials that can be used for awnings, including:

  1. Acrylic
  2. Aluminum
  3. Canvas
  4. Galvanised steel
  5. Woven mesh
Source: PANEZA Window Fashions

Automation

Manual awnings are operated by turning a crank. To provide shade, wind it up; to provide sunlight, wind it down. On the other hand, motorised awnings utilise a motor to extend and retract the unit via a switch or remote control. It is even possible to automate using a home automation system.

Benefits of installing awnings

There are several benefits to installing awnings; not only are they practical, but they also look great. Here are some of the main benefits of installing awnings on to the exterior of your home.

1. Awnings help protect your windows

Protection against the weather is one of the main reasons you’ll want to install exterior window awnings. Protecting your home is vital if you live in a climate prone to high winds and frequent thunderstorms, perhaps even hail. Installing something like straight drop awnings – either manually operated or motorised – means that as soon as the weather starts to turn, you can quickly drop those awnings and add a layer of protection for the fragile glass.

Even something like pivot arm canvas awnings that protrude out above the window will help protect your windows to some degree as well.

2. Window awnings help insulate your home’s interior

No matter what style of awnings you choose to go with, apart from offering window protection, one of the main functions of awnings is to help keep the temperature inside your house cooler.

Awnings help block out some of the sunlight. Even if you have thick blinds on the interior of your windows, if the summer sun can shine directly onto the glass, it gets hot very quickly and therefore heats up your house. With the protection on the outside, preventing the sun from baking the glass, your home will be much cooler.

No one wants to live in an oven during the long Australian summer, so awnings can undoubtedly help with climate control.

3. Enclose your patio or balcony

Once again, something like straight drop awnings is the perfect solution for enclosing a balcony or patio area and protecting you from the elements.

Imagine you’re out on your patio one evening enjoying some snacks and drinks with friends. It’s a breezy, but pleasant evening and things are going well. Soon the atmosphere is spoilt when a wind suddenly picks up, tugging at your clothing and giving you the chills.

You could duck back inside, or you could lower those awnings to protect you and your friends against the wind.

It’s the same out on your balcony. Highrise balconies, in particular, are prone to lots of wind, so having some awnings in place that you can use when needed is a blessing. Enjoy your alfresco balcony lifestyle in comfort and style.

Awnings are a great way to provide shade over outdoor entertaining areas / Source: Smart Canvas

4. Window awnings are very easy to maintain

Don’t think that because you’ve installed some awnings on the exterior of your home that you’re going to be spending hours every weekend cleaning them up to keep them looking good.

Modern awnings are extremely easy to look after. Often all you’ll ever need to do is hose them down with some freshwater from time to time to keep off any grime. Every once in a while you might run a sponge and some soapy water over them before hosing them off.

Today’s awnings are also extremely strong, durable and highly weather resistant. They are designed not to fade in harsh sunlight, nor split or crack from constant exposure to the elements. Your awnings will serve you well for many years.

5. Awnings add style to your home’s exterior

Window and patio awnings have come a long way in recent decades. Not only are they very functional, but they possess a lot of styles as well.

You can have awnings made to order in a variety of materials, styles and colours that blend in well with your existing colour scheme. The installation of awnings will also add a lot of value to your house, should you ever decide to put it on the market, way more value than the cost of the awnings themselves.