Warm temperatures mean longer days and more time spent outdoors. Heading into summer is the perfect time to stop dreaming and start living in color. Here’s a primer to get you started with some curb appeal color here in the Central Valley.

Color Identity

Think about how much we rely on color to identify our homes. It’s the green house with the yellow door, or maybe, look for the house with the red door. Most of us identify our homes by honing in on what makes our home different or remarkable. Color is personal, and color choice is part of our home’s identity. If it’s been a while since you’ve made any color changes to your home’s exterior, it may be time for some fresh curb appeal.

Pick Door Number One

Or  color number SW6496 , if you love ocean-inspired color. That’s Oceanside, Sherwin Williams’ 2018 Color of the Year. But if you’ve never hankered for a blue door, you’re in luck as you can choose virtually any shade you’d like for your  front door.  Sure, you’ll want to  consult with a professional to make certain you’ve got the perfect type of paint for your surface , but the color choice is all yours, unless you’d like a little help and a color consultation. It never hurts to ask a professional painter!

All the Trimmings

Curb appeal doesn’t stop at the front door. Consider painting railings and trim as well. If you’re lucky enough to have a Painted Lady style home, you have even more opportunities to bring in new color to your home’s palette. Both window and door trims can dress up your curb appeal with a fresh coat of the existing color, or a completely new shade to make your home pop.

How to Choose Color: Look Up, Look Down, Look All Around

When considering how to add curb appeal with paint, don’t forget to look up at your roof. Many composite shingles use a variety of shades, and pulling one of the colors from the roof may give you some new ideas when it comes to color. Other things to take into consideration include the overall exterior color of your home, as well as sun exposure. Do you have one wall that’s always hot in the late afternoon sun? If that’s where your front door is, you may want to consider a lighter color that doesn’t absorb as much heat.

Talk with an experienced painting professional familiar with the California environment.  They can help steer you toward the colors and finishes that will last the longest, and look their best over time. And that’s not just a California dream.