10 Tips for Exterior Paint

Paint Stores Can Help With Colors and Quantities

The first step is picking colors. Choosing those that complement the architectural details of your house and fit the character of your neighborhood can be tricky. Check out bookstores and libraries for books on the subject.

You’ll find brochures at the paint store with collections of historic colors. Many paint stores have designers on staff who can help you choose colors, or you could hire a designer or architect.

Buy a quart of each color you’ve chosen and paint the entire color scheme on a small area of your house before committing to gallons. If you don’t like the results, change the colors and try again.

Next, take rough measurements of your house, noting the type of surface stucco, cedar shingles, smooth siding, etc. Count the doors and windows. With this information, paint store employees can calculate the amount of paint you’ll need. Let them know if you’re painting wood siding or something else. Plan on applying two coats of acrylic latex paint over the primer.

Buy the best paint you can afford. Good-quality paint is easier to apply, covers better and lasts longer. We recommend buying paint with a slight sheen, satin or eggshell. It’s more fade resistant and easier to clean than flat paint.