How do I Choose Outdoor House Colors?

Look at magazines to see examples of exterior paint colors and combinations that appeal to you. Take photographs of any houses that catch your eye. Begin compiling these images for possible paint colors.

Consider the style of your house. Look for colors that fit the time period when your house was built. Refer to charts of historic paint colors, which many paint companies produce.

Compare your house to the other houses in your surrounding neighborhood. Note the predominant colors of your neighbors' houses. Decide if you want your house to blend in or stand out.

Take an objective look at your house. Figure out which features you want to play up with color or minimize with neutral shades. Look for light colors to make the house look larger and more inviting.

Consider your future plans for the house. Pick a neutral color if you plan to sell the house at some point.

Choose a few of the colors you like best and purchase small sample sizes. Paint the samples directly on your house. Make sure that each sample is at least 2-by-2 feet, so you can see it from a distance. View the samples at different times of day. Select the best color to paint the exterior of your house.