In this article, we’re looking at why spring is an especially good time to knock out your exterior painting goals for the year.

Why Is Spring a Perfect Time for Exterior Painting in New York and Connecticut?

To put it first in broad terms (or shall we say, broad strokes) spring is ideal because it presents a sweet spot for painting, avoiding some of the excess challenges you may face in the middle of summer or winter. And you might say it also takes the advantages of both summer and winter making it the best of both worlds. Let’s look at specifics. 

Ideal Weather Conditions for House Painting

Moderate temperatures and lower humidity are crucial for paint to dry and cure properly. Spring weather typically avoids the extremes, providing conditions that allow paint to adhere correctly and evenly. A professional painter knows how to navigate tougher conditions, but if the weather works in your favor, all the better!

Longer Daylight Hours

With the days growing longer, spring offers extended daylight hours, allowing for more painting to be done within a workday. That makes for greater project efficiency all around.

Preparation for Summer

Completing your painting projects in spring prepares your property to face the harsher conditions of summer. A fresh coat of paint can provide additional protection against the intense UV rays and potentially heavy summer rains, preserving the integrity and beauty of your property.

Enhanced Curb Appeal for Prime Season

Spring painting ensures your property looks its best during the summer months when it’s likely to be seen and enjoyed the most. Whether it’s for personal satisfaction or in preparation for sale, a well-maintained exterior can significantly boost a property’s curb appeal.

Addressing Winter Damage

Winter can be harsh on building exteriors, causing damage such as cracked siding or peeling paint. Spring offers the first opportunity to assess and address this damage, ensuring that protective measures like painting are promptly applied to prevent further deterioration.

What’s the Takeaway? 

Spring offers an ideal backdrop for painting projects, blending the joy of a beautiful work environment with its many more practical advantages. By planning ahead and leveraging the expertise of professionals, you can ensure that your springtime painting project not only revitalizes your space but does so with lasting quality and appeal. 

There are some painting projects that are just too much to handle alone (or at all as an average homeowner), but that doesn’t mean it has to be overwhelming. At A.G. Williams, we are here to help with every step of the way, providing quality services and a beautiful, lasting finish. Call us today for any more questions! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Is it okay to paint outdoors in early spring when it’s still a bit cool?

A: Yes, but it’s important to choose days when the temperature is within the paint manufacturer’s recommended range, typically above 50°F (10°C) for most exterior paints, although some exterior paints can be safely applied in even lower temperatures.

Q: How does rain affect springtime painting projects?

A: Rain can delay painting projects by necessitating additional drying time before and after application. Planning around the forecast and ensuring a few dry days for your project can mitigate these issues.

Q: Can I save money by painting in the spring?

A: Potentially, yes. Off-peak pricing and the possibility of faster project completion due to longer daylight hours can contribute to cost savings.

During the Valentine’s season, our thoughts often turn to ways we can show love to those around us. But what about our homes? Don’t they deserve some TLC too? 

We think so!

And what better way to care for the heart of your home than by keeping up with maintenance on your painted cabinets? These surfaces work hard for us, facing the brunt of daily wear and tear while never complaining. Over time, however, they can start to show their age. So let’s give these hard-working surfaces a little love, ensuring their beauty and durability can stand up against life’s hard knocks. 

Why Maintain Painted Cabinets?

Painted cabinets are more than just a design choice; they’re an investment in your home’s aesthetic and value. Well-maintained cabinets can transform a kitchen, making it feel cleaner, brighter, and more inviting. On top of that (and  beyond mere aesthetics) regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your cabinets too, saving you from costly replacements or extensive repairs down the line.

Cabinet Cleaning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning sounds easy enough, right? It is! But there are definitely a few tips that can make the job more effective. 

1. Empty the Cabinets: Begin by removing all items from your cabinets. This gives you the chance to declutter, organize, and inspect the interior of the cabinets for any signs of wear or damage.

2. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket. For greasy buildup, you can add a half cup of vinegar to the solution for its degreasing properties.

3. Wipe Down Interior/Exterior Surfaces: Dip a microfiber cloth or soft sponge into the cleaning solution, wring it out well so it’s damp but not dripping, and wipe the exterior/interior surfaces of the cabinets. Use a toothbrush or small brush to get into corners and crevices if necessary.

4. Have Tough Stains? Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse with a damp cloth.

5. Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Then, dry the surfaces thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth to prevent moisture damage.

6. Clean Hardware: Remove knobs, handles, and pulls to clean separately if they are very dirty. You can clean these with the same soap and water solution or use a metal cleaner for the appropriate type of metal. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching.

Cabinet Painting Touch Ups

Do your cabinets have minor chips or scratches? Nothing a little touch-up can’t handle. Lightly sand the spot to create a smooth surface for better paint adhesion. Be sure to match the paint used on the cabinets as closely as possible. Using a small brush or sponge applicator, apply the paint in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next. 

If you’re an A.G. Williams Painting customer and need touch-ups, please call us. We can make short work of the process and guarantee a fantastic finish.

Cabinet Repainting: Knowing When To Start Fresh

If touch-ups are no longer enough, or if you’re just plain tired of your cabinet’s paint job, it might be time to repaint your cabinets altogether. Take a look at this overview for helpful information as you decide whether to repaint or replace completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I clean my painted cabinets? Aim for a gentle cleaning once a week to prevent buildup of grease and dust.

Q: Can I use regular household cleaners on painted cabinets? It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals. Stick to mild dish soap and water for cleaning.

Q: What should I do if the paint on my cabinets is peeling? Peeling paint usually requires removal of the loose paint, sanding, priming, and repainting the affected area.

Q: How can I prevent my painted cabinets from fading? Limit direct sunlight exposure with blinds or curtains and use paints with UV protection.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a professional for repainting, or can I do it myself? While DIY is possible with the right tools and preparation, hiring a professional can ensure a durable and high-quality finish, especially for extensive projects.

Have you ever stepped into a well-painted kitchen or bathroom and thought to yourself “Wow. This place looks amazing!”? Well, you can be sure that the cabinets played a significant role. Cabinets are a focal point and set the tone for the whole space, so understanding how to make the best of them is key. 

What is there to understand, you might ask? Good question! Let’s start with this year’s popular color trends.

2024 Paint Colors for Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets 

The first thing to keep in mind when considering how to transform your kitchen/bathroom cabinets is what colors are trending in the world of cabinet paint, especially as the new year brings a fresh color palette onto the scene.

Earthy Tones: A Touch of the Outdoors

Earthy tones are making a big comeback this year. Think warm terracotta, soothing clay, and rich sienna – these colors bring a sense of calm and connection to the outdoors (a much needed advantage!). Plus, They work exceptionally well in spaces with natural light, complementing wood finishes and plants especially. 

Bold Blues: For Making Your Cabinets Stand Out

From deep navy to bright cerulean, blue cabinets are becoming a popular choice for those who want to add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. These shades pair beautifully with metallic accents and white countertops, offering a tasteful and sophisticated look.

Soft Greens: Serenity and Balance

Need something on the calmer side? No problem. Soft greens, like sage and mint, are perfect for creating a tranquil and refreshing space. These colors are especially popular in bathrooms and kitchens, where serenity is often the goal.

Classic Neutrals: Timeless and  Elegant 

While bold colors are in vogue, the appeal of neutral tones remains timeless. Shades like beige, light gray, and off-white offer versatility and can easily adapt to changing decor styles. They are ideal for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic and a simple atmosphere. 

Understanding the Perfect Cabinet Paint Finish 

Along with color, the finish of your cabinets plays a crucial role in overall look and functionality. Ultimately you decide what works best for your space, but keep a few things in mind.

Incorporating These Color Trends into Your Home

Incorporating the latest paint color trends into your cabinets is not just about following what’s in vogue; it’s about blending these trends with your personal style. 

1. Start by assessing the mood you wish to create. Do you want your kitchen/bathroom to feel energetic and vibrant, or calm and serene? Whatever it is, color is the most effective way to achieve it!
2. Consider the size and lighting of your room. Light colors can make small or dimly-lit spaces feel larger and brighter, while darker hues create a sense of sophistication in larger rooms. 

Now that you’re up-to-date with this years’ favorite cabinet colors, it’s time to add “kitchen transformation” to your new year’s resolution list!

Have More Cabinet Painting Questions? We’re Here to Help

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could do all the imagining and decision making for your next cabinet paint job but not have to worry about costly mistakes or time commitment? Well, A.G. Williams Painting Company doesn’t just make your color preference a reality –  we ensure the process from start to finish is done with professionalism, quality work, and timely service. Contact us today for more info! 

Cabinet Painting FAQs

Q: Can I mix and match colors in my cabinetry? A: Absolutely! Mixing colors can add depth and interest to your space. For instance, you could use a bold color on your lower cabinets and a neutral tone on the upper ones.

Q: How often should I repaint my cabinets? A: This depends on usage and wear. Generally, cabinets can be repainted every 5-10 years to maintain their appearance or to update the color.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a professional painter? A: While DIY is an option, professional painters ensure a high-quality finish, proper surface preparation, and can provide expert color advice.

So, which concrete coating should you use for your commercial space? Let’s take a closer look at your options.

Types of Floor Coatings 

While there are many options of concrete floor coatings to choose from, not all are the right fit for YOUR needs:

Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy coatings are made up of a two-part system: epoxy resin and a hardener mixed together. This process results in a good surface bonding, however it is also susceptible to yellowing or chalking overtime (especially in UV exposed areas).

Acrylic Coatings: Acrylic floor coatings are known for their quick drying times, ease of application, and UV resistance. This is great for speedy application, but unfortunately this means it tends to wear more quickly than other options, requiring more frequent recoating.

Concrete Sealers: Concrete sealers are probably the most affordable option. They can provide stain resistance, protection against moisture, and sometimes add a glossy finish to a shop floor, however this is not a good long term solution for reliable protection.

So, what’s the best floor coating on the market?

The Verdict: Polyurea Floor Coatings 

Among all the commercial floor coatings to choose from, Polyurea stands at the top. Polyurea is a synthetic polymer known for its fast-curing and tough properties. It’s a go-to solution for commercial floorings of all kinds, and outshining others in multiple areas. 

Benefits of Polyurea Floor Coatings for Commercial Properties

Here are some of the benefits that you can expect to get from polyurea floor coatings:

1. Durability and Longevity: With an incredible resistance to wear and tear, polyurea coatings maintain their integrity even under heavy foot and vehicle traffic, making them last much longer than traditional coatings.

2. Chemical and Stain Resistance: These coatings are impervious to most chemicals and stains, which is crucial for spaces like automotive workshops, warehouses, and manufacturing plants.

3. Safety Features: The addition of texture options makes polyurea coatings slip-resistant, enhancing safety in workplaces and public areas.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a variety of colors and finishes, these coatings can be tailored to enhance the visual appeal of any space, from elegant retail environments to practical industrial settings.

5. Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and requiring minimal upkeep, polyurea coatings are a practical choice for busy commercial environments.

Comparative Analysis with Other Floor Coatings

When compared with alternatives like epoxy or urethane, polyurea stands out for its rapid curing time, which minimizes downtime for businesses. Its superior durability also means less frequent replacements or repairs, offering long-term value.

What About Different Industries?

From sleek, modern retail spaces to rugged industrial warehouses, polyurea coatings are versatile enough to meet various industry-specific needs. They are particularly beneficial in areas prone to spills, heavy machinery movement, or where a clean, professional appearance is desired. 

Your Takeaway?

In the end, commercial floors need the best coating available and Polyurea offers an unbeatable combination of durability, safety, and style for properties of all kinds. 

So, are you ready to transform your property with the best polyurea floor coatings? Contact A.G. Williams today for a consultation and discover the ideal flooring solution for your space!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: How long do polyurea coatings last? A: Polyurea coatings are known for their longevity, typically lasting longer than traditional coatings, often over a decade, depending on usage conditions.

Q: Are polyurea coatings environmentally friendly? A: Polyurea coatings are considered more environmentally friendly than many alternatives due to their longevity and the reduced need for frequent reapplications.

Q: Can polyurea coatings be customized in color and texture? A: Absolutely! Polyurea coatings come in a variety of colors and textures to suit different aesthetic and functional requirements.

Q: How quick is the curing process for polyurea coatings? A: Polyurea coatings cure remarkably fast, often within 24 hours, significantly reducing downtime for businesses.Q: Is polyurea suitable for outdoor applications? A: Yes, polyurea is highly resistant to the weather and UV rays, making it an excellent choice for outdoor applications.

The Variety of Fall’s Palette

While orange might be the first color that comes to mind when we think of autumn, the season’s palette is rich and varied:

Golden Yellows: Think of the early stages of leaves turning, the warm afternoon sun, and the gentle touch of candlelight.

Deep Reds: This shade encapsulates the heart of fall. From apples in an orchard to leaves underfoot, red is both warm and invigorating.

Rich Browns: Evoking the feeling of wood, hot cocoa, and the trunks of trees that stand resilient even as temperatures drop.

Muted Greens: While most leaves change, some trees hold onto their green, providing a beautiful contrast to the fiery shades around them. This shade can provide a calming, grounding presence in your interiors.

Understanding Paint Color and Moods 

Before selecting a color, it’s essential to understand the mood you want to inspire. Consider how the room will be used. Is this where you sleep? Where you spend your morning? Where you hang out with friends and family? Take a look at a few fall-inspired colors and the effect they can have on emotions and moods: 

Mustard Yellow: Like the golden tones of fall leaves, mustard yellow brings a sense of brightness and warmth to a room. It exudes a cheerful and optimistic mood, perfect for adding vibrancy to your living space.

Olive Green: Inspired by the muted greens of fall foliage, this earthy shade evokes a sense of calm and connection to nature. 

Burgundy: A deep, velvety red reminiscent of ripe autumn berries. This color communicates elegance and a sense of luxury. It creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for gathering with loved ones.

Taupe: A versatile neutral with warm undertones, taupe captures the essence of autumn’s earthy palette. It creates a sense of stability and timelessness, making it a perfect backdrop for a variety of design styles.

Some Mistakes to Avoid 

When it comes to choosing a color, the paint is only part of the equation.  It’s important to take other factors into consideration and avoid those unwanted mishaps. 

A.) One of the most common mistakes is not considering how natural and artificial light will affect the color. A color can look vastly different in natural daylight compared to artificial lighting. Always test paint swatches in the actual space to see how they look in different lighting conditions.

B.) Another mistake is overlooking the existing elements in the house. Consider the furniture, flooring, and fixtures in the room. The color you choose should harmonize with these elements, rather than clash with them.

C.) Finally, don’t forget to take the size of the room into consideration. Dark colors can make a small room feel even smaller, while light colors can make a large room feel more open. Consider the size of the room and choose colors that complement the space.

In Conclusion

The colors of fall are one of the things we all look forward to the most, but unfortunately they are only around for a short time. Extend the colorful season this year by bringing them into your home! And if you need any help with questions or a consultation, A.G. Williams Painting Co. is only a click away!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I integrate fall colors without it feeling overwhelming? A: Start with neutral bases and use fall colors as accents. This can be through painted feature walls, decor, or furnishings.

Q: Are fall colors suitable for smaller spaces? A: Yes! While darker shades can make a room feel cozier, using them alongside good lighting and mirrors can ensure the space doesn’t feel cramped.Q: Can fall colors fit into a modern decor style? A: Absolutely. It’s all about balance. Sleek furniture and contemporary decor in autumnal shades can look both chic and cozy.

The answer lies in the use of color harmony. 

What is Color Harmony?

Before diving into techniques, it’s crucial to understand what color harmony is. In interior design, it refers to the strategic use of colors to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing effect. The color wheel is a visual tool that is essential for understanding and applying color harmony principles. It organizes colors in a circular format, making it easier to grasp the relationships between different colors and how they interact. 

With that in mind, here are a few common principles. 

1. Complementary Colors: These are pairs of colors that are located opposite each other on the color wheel, such as red and green, or blue and orange. When used together, they create a strong contrast and can be visually striking.

2. Analogous Colors: These, on the other hand, are colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, like red, orange, and yellow. Using analogous colors can create a sense of harmony and a smooth transition between hues.

3. Triadic Colors: These are found by selecting three equidistant colors on the color wheel, creating a triangle: a combination which provides a vibrant and balanced look.

4. Achromatic Colors: Achromatic color schemes use only neutral colors like black, white, and gray. These schemes are clean, minimalist, and can be very elegant.

Strategies to Differentiate Spaces While Maintaining Cohesion

Everybody knows the value of having clearly defined areas of the house that serve various functions, but it is also nice to have some consistency across the board. The good news is that it doesn’t need to be one or the other. Here are a few ways to accomplish both. 

Transitioning with shades and tints: One effective way to differentiate spaces without causing a jarring visual break is to use varying shades (lighter) or tints (darker) of the same color. This technique subtly sets apart different areas while maintaining an overall cohesive feel.

Accent walls: Designate a particular area, like a reading nook or dining space, with a contrasting color. This not only draws attention but also creates a clear boundary.

Flow with furnishings: It’s not just about the walls. Furniture and décor can play a pivotal role in demarcating spaces. Align your furniture’s color with the surrounding paint or use it as a transition between two paint colors.

Incorporating architectural features: Structural elements, like beams or half-walls, can be painted in contrasting colors to signify transition between spaces.

The Role of Neutral Colors 

Neutral colors play a crucial role in open floor plans by providing a cohesive and harmonious backdrop that ties different areas of the space together. 

Creating Visual Continuity: Open floor plans often encompass multiple functional areas like the living room, dining area, and kitchen. Using neutral colors on the walls, ceilings, and even floors helps create visual continuity, making the entire space feel connected and unified.

Expanding the Perception of Space: Neutral colors, particularly light ones like soft whites or light grays, can make an open floor plan appear more spacious and airy. They reflect light effectively and create a sense of openness, which is especially valuable in smaller or more confined areas.

Balancing Design Elements: Open floor plans often feature a variety of furniture, decor, and materials in different zones. Neutral colors serve as a neutralizing element that balances the various design elements, preventing the space from feeling overwhelmed or chaotic.

Importance of Lighting

Lighting can make or break your color harmony. Natural sunlight might make a color appear warm and inviting, while artificial lighting can drastically change its appearance. Always test how colors look under different lights. Additionally, consider reflective surfaces and their influence on color perception. A mirror or a glass-top table for example can bounce light and influence how a color appears in a particular space.

Tips for Testing Paint Colors

Before committing to a color, always test with samples and swatches. Paint a small section of the wall and make sure to observe it during different times of the day. Modern technology also offers tools and apps that can help you visualize your choices before making the final decision.

Need Help with Your Interior Painting Project?

Contact us at A.G. Williams Painting Company! We’d be happy to help you take your interior painting project from concept to reality.

As the vibrant colors and brisk air of autumn bring a fresh, new beauty to your community, it is only natural to want the same for your home. And what better way is there to celebrate that cozy fall feel than by freshening things up with a new coat of exterior paint? The only question is: “Should you paint in the fall or wait till another season?” 

Here are a few reasons why fall may not only be an acceptable season for exterior painting, but even a preferable one. We’ll also run through a few potential challenges to consider. 

Advantages of Painting in the Fall

• Consistent Temperatures: Exterior paint needs just the right temperature range in order to dry properly. If it’s too cold, the paint won’t dry. If it’s too hot, it will dry too quickly, resulting in a cracked finish that will likely chip away over time. That nice, moderate fall temperature does more than just feel good, it makes for perfect exterior paint conditions.  
• Less Insects:  When painting an exterior surface as big as a house, bugs crawling or flying into drying paint can present a real problem. Thankfully fall sees a dramatic decrease in these pesky paint-destroyers.  
• Low Humidity: Humidity can affect the drying time of paint and its ability to set properly. During fall, the humidity levels are usually moderate, which is ideal for paint to adhere and dry effectively.
• Increased protection: If you live in an area with a harsh winter, you have the extra incentive to ensure that your home is well prepped in the fall. Heading into the long winter months with a fresh coat of paint will do wonders towards preserving the materials beneath when exposed to ice, snow or sleet.

Challenges to Painting in the Fall

While there are many advantages to painting in the fall, it’s essential to be aware of some challenges that the season may present, too. Just keep in mind that as long as you take these things into account and plan ahead, you can dramatically decrease any risk of your paint job being adversely affected.

• Shorter Days: With the sun setting earlier, there’s less daylight to work with. It’s essential to plan ahead and start early in order to utilize natural light effectively and avoid needing to work into the night. Aside from keeping you or someone else from going to bed, the dramatic temperature drop could prevent your exterior paint from drying.
• More Debris: Both the dry air and the falling leaves makes for an increased risk of unwanted debris landing on wet exterior paint. Depending on where you live this might be inevitable, but staying close by while your paint is drying and carefully picking off any leaves/debris is a good way to prevent a permanent blemish. 

FAQs about Outdoor Painting in the Fall

Every homeowner keen on leveraging the beauty of fall for a fresh coat of paint will have questions. To make your painting endeavor more informed, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Q: How do I know if it’s too cold to paint outside?
A: Always check the paint can label. Most outdoor paints will specify a minimum temperature (often around 50°F or 10°C). It’s crucial to ensure that temperatures remain above this minimum for at least a few hours after painting.

Q: Can I paint if it’s forecasted to rain?
A: It’s advisable to avoid painting if rain is expected within 24 hours. Moisture can affect the paint’s adherence and drying process.

Q: Should I use a different kind of paint in the fall?
A: Not necessarily, but always choose high-quality exterior paints. They often have additives that make them more resilient to varying temperatures.

Q: How early in the morning can I start painting?
A: Wait until the dew has lifted and the surface is dry. Typically, late morning is a safe bet, but this can vary based on local conditions.

Q: What’s the latest in the day I should paint?
A: Aim to stop painting early enough that the paint can dry for several hours before temperatures drop in the evening.

Your best bet is to put your exterior painting project in the hands of a skilled, experienced painting company. We know how to navigate the weather and varying conditions, pairing just the right product with your needs to ensure a successful outcome. If you live here in New York or Connecticut, contact us at A.G. Williams Painting Company. We’d love to serve you and your home.

How exterior house paint works. 

When considering the importance of any product, it can help to know how it works. Most paints contain four main ingredients: liquids, binders, additives, and pigments. The liquids act primarily as the base for the other ingredients and evaporate completely after the paint is applied and cured. Most important to the overall quality of your exterior house paint however are the binders, pigments, and additives (also known as “solids”) which are left behind. Let’s take a closer look:

Pigments: When it comes to paint, color is no small feature. Every can of exterior paint contains both “prime” and “extender” pigments. Prime pigments, which are more costly, contribute mostly to the color and hide of the paint whereas extender pigments are used to add bulk to the product at a low cost. 

Binders: Binders act as the “glue” which hold everything together after the paint has dried. This is especially important in exterior paint, since paint that is exposed to the weather has a much higher risk of cracking, peeling, or chipping. The quality and the quantity of the binder will affect the onset of these unwanted blemishes.

Additives: Additives can be used to give extra benefits to exterior paint that it doesn’t get from the other ingredients. For example, in better quality paint, preservatives and mildewcides are often added to keep the paint from spoiling and to reduce mold growth. 

All three of these main ingredients work together to influence the outcome of your exterior paint’s performance.

What are the advantages of quality paint?

A key feature to the success of any exterior painting project is turning the color you envision into a reality that lasts for more than one season. How does good quality paint make that happen? 

1. Better coverage: The ratio of solids to liquids can play a significant role in the ability that paint has to cover surfaces. Higher quality paint has a higher percentage of solids and results in a thicker and more durable coating. Paint with a lower percentage of solids on the other hand may be much cheaper for the same amount but the thinner application will require more coats to finish the job.

2. Color retention: Exterior paints that contain higher quality prime pigments such as titanium dioxide will retain their color better than paints which rely more on low-cost extender pigments. 

3. Protection: While aesthetics are certainly a major part of any house painting job, they’re not everything. Quality exterior paint that is tailor-made to protect against the outside elements will provide a better barrier against moisture and mold.  

4. Durability: Higher quality exterior paints use binders such as 100% acrylic to give the paint greater elasticity. This allows it to expand and contract as the temperature changes. With a better bond to your house and stronger resistance against the elements, your exterior paint can last well over twice as long as lower quality paint. 

Does buying cheap exterior paint really save money? 

When it comes to protecting and enjoying your house, sometimes a little extra expense is worth it, but in the end is it actually cheaper to buy lower quality paint?  Here are three things to consider:

1. Cheaper paint will likely need to be applied with more coats to cover the surface which means you need to buy more of it. 

2. If you are painting a whole house with a less expensive paint that will last around 5 years compared to a nicer paint that could last 10-15 years, you could actually be paying more per year than you would be with the better product. 

3. Finally, quality exterior paint can keep parts of  your house from rotting or getting damaged, which may result in lower maintenance costs. 

Have more house painting questions? Contact us!

Finding a quality exterior paint isn’t difficult when you have a quality painter. A.G. Williams Painting company has been serving folks in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Rockland County, and Putnam County since 1906. If you need help with your next exterior painting project contact us today!

But when it comes to keeping your home freshly painted, it’s not just about looking good –it’s about maintenance, too. Read on to see the difference regular painting can make and how it can have a tangible impact on your home’s beauty and health overall.

Improved Curb Appeal

First and foremost, regular painting maintenance significantly enhances the curb appeal of your home. A well-maintained exterior tells the world that you take pride in your property. It creates that positive first impression we mentioned, plus significantly elevates the overall appearance of your home, and can even increase its value in a tangible way. Whether you’re planning to sell or just want your home to look fantastic, regular painting maintenance can make a considerable difference.

Protection Against Environmental Damage

Mother Nature is unrelenting. Sun, wind, rain, and snow all take their toll on your home’s exterior. Over time, these elements can cause the paint to fade, chip, and peel. Beyond cosmetic issues, this can expose your home’s structure to potential damage. Regular exterior painting acts as a barrier, protecting your home from harsh weather conditions, harmful UV rays, and even insects. If you let your exterior paint deteriorate and fail between repaints, you’re opening it up to major issues and vulnerabilities.

Help Your Paint Last Longer

As we just mentioned, your exterior paint in the tri-state area has a tough job to do. It has to withstand every environmental onslaught while protecting the substrate underneath. Regular painting not only keeps your siding looking fresh and new but also significantly extends its lifespan. 

Think of it as giving your exterior paint a tuneup rather than starting from scratch. 

Cost Efficiency

While painting your home’s exterior might seem like a large expense at first, regular maintenance can actually save you money in the long run. Preventing damage from environmental factors and prolonging the life of your siding reduces the need for costly repairs or replacement. Plus, a well-maintained exterior can increase your home’s value, potentially resulting in a higher selling price if you ever decide to move.

Catching Structural Issues Early

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s exterior, but the painting process also gives you a chance to detect any potential issues early. As you prepare your home for painting, you might uncover signs of damage like rotting wood, water stains, or structural issues that may otherwise have gone unnoticed. Catching these problems early can save a lot of headaches and expenses.

Contribute to Energy Efficiency

Believe it or not, exterior paint can contribute to your home’s energy efficiency. Light-colored paints reflect more sunlight and can help keep your home cooler in the summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. Meanwhile, high-quality exterior paint forms a tight seal, helping prevent cold drafts in the winter.

Plus, as part of your exterior maintenance strategy, your painter will check the caulking that helps to seal gaps around your siding, windows, doors, and trim. This keeps pests out, plus helps with overall insulation and efficiency. 

What’s Your Takeaway?

Regular exterior painting maintenance is much more than an aesthetic choice—it’s an investment in your home. From boosting curb appeal and property value to extending the life of your siding and uncovering potential issues early on, the benefits are extensive.

So where do you start? Talk with a professional painter near you. Develop a plan, a strategy, and then check it off your mental to-do list. 

But don’t let that stress you out. Exterior painting can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re partnered with a professional painting contractor to ensure the total success of your project. 

Today, let’s chat through some practical answers to a very fundamental question: what color should you paint your house? You can absolutely rely on what’s trending, or lean on the advice of a professional colorist, but we have a few simple ideas to add to the mix as well. 

Ready? Let’s go. 

Consider the Architecture of Your Home

One of the first things to consider when choosing paint colors for your home’s exterior is simply its architecture. The style of your home can help you determine which colors will look best, giving you a range of style-specific color ideas, or guidelines. For example, if you have a Victorian-style home, you might want to choose bold, rich colors like deep reds or blues. If you have a more modern home, you might opt for neutral colors like whites, grays, or beiges.

Look at the Surrounding Area

Another important factor to consider is the surrounding area. Take a look at the landscaping, the neighborhood, and the natural surroundings. You want to choose colors that will complement the environment around your home. For example, if you live in a wooded area, you might want to choose earthy tones like browns and greens.

Think About the Weather

The tri-state area is known for its more extreme seasonal weather, so it’s important to choose paint colors that can hold up against the elements. Lighter colors tend to reflect heat and sunlight, keeping your home cooler in the summer months. On the other hand, darker colors tend to absorb heat, which can make your home feel warmer. Keep this in mind when choosing your colors.

Test the Colors

Before committing to a color, it’s a good idea to test it out first. Most suppliers offer small sample sizes of paint that you can use to paint a small area of your home’s exterior. This will give you a better idea of how the color will look in different lighting conditions. Definitely don’t rely on paint swatches alone! They’re a good starting point, but then you need to apply samples of your favorite colors to give you a better sense of what it will actually look like in place.

Choose the Right Color Scheme

Once you’ve considered the above factors, it’s time to choose your color scheme. You’ll want to choose three colors: a main color for the body of your home, a contrasting color for the trim, and an accent color for the doors and shutters. You can use different shades of the same color or choose complementary colors to create a cohesive look.

Consider the Popular Exterior Paint Colors for 2023

Don’t feel like you’re stuck with what’s trending – choose a color you love and can live with every day. But if you DO need a little inspiration and are wondering what’s hot for exterior paint colors in 2023, here’s a quick summary.

One of the most popular exterior color trends is a return to earthy, natural hues like olive green, warm beige, and terracotta. These colors work well with a variety of architectural styles and can create a warm and welcoming look. Another trending color for 2023 is muted shades of blue, such as powder blue or slate blue. These colors create a calming and serene atmosphere, and work especially well for homes located near bodies of water. 

Fun Fact!

Did you know that the color of your home’s exterior can have an impact on its resale value? According to a recent study, homes painted in shades of blue, gray, or taupe can sell for up to $6,000 more than homes painted in other colors. On the other hand, homes painted in darker colors like red or brown can sell for up to $2,000 less than homes painted in lighter colors. So, not only can choosing the right exterior paint colors make your home look great, but it can also have a positive impact on its value.

FAQs

Q: What if I want to use a bold color?

A: Bold colors can be a great way to make a statement, but it’s important to use them sparingly. Consider using bold colors as an accent rather than the main color.

Q: Should I paint my front door a different color?

A: Yes, painting your front door a different color can add visual interest to your home’s exterior. Choose a color that complements the rest of your color scheme.

Q: Can I use more than three colors?

A: While you can use more than three colors, it’s best to stick to a maximum of five to avoid creating a “busy” look.

Is choosing the right exterior house paint color challenging? It can be, but it’s worth the effort to create a beautiful and inviting home. As we mentioned above, have fun with it too, and be sure to partner with a professional painting company that really gets your goals and can help turn your vision into a reality. Don’t settle for anything less.

If you have questions for our team here at A.G. Williams Painting Company, be sure to reach out. We’d love to talk with you in more detail.