How to Choose the Right Siding Color for Your Home

New siding can help to protect your home from the elements and make it more energy efficient. It can also add curb appeal to your property, improving its market value. This article looks at a few ways to determine which color is best for your house while being faithful to your tastes.

Take a Look at What Your Neighbors Have

One factor in determining what color your home’s exterior should be is to look at what other property owners in your area have done. For instance, if most other homes in your neighborhood have white siding, you can go with white to fit the overall aesthetic. Of course, if you want something that stands out, you could opt for a dark color that contrasts with the homes around you. However, a more prudent decision may be to choose a color you like but in a lighter hue so your home does not stick out like a sore thumb.

Lighter Colors Reveal More Dirt and Grime

An important factor to consider when choosing your siding color is how well it will hide or reveal dirt and grime over time. Regular power washing every year protects your siding from damage caused by accumulated grime, mold, or mildew. Removing them prevents these materials from slowly eating away at the siding and causing premature fading or deterioration. However, lighter colors, such as white or beige, tend to show every speck of dirt, grass stains, and mud that accumulate on your home’s exterior, making it appear less clean more quickly.

In contrast, darker shades like black, navy, or charcoal are more forgiving. Just like a darker color on a car, dirt is not as obvious between cleanings. If you find washing your siding an onerous chore, consider a darker color to reduce how frequently your siding needs attention.

Choosing a Color That Reflects Your Personal Style

When selecting a siding color, you can choose a hue that truly reflects your personal taste, especially if you’re not restricted by a Homeowners Association (HOA). Even if you do live in an HOA community, you might find that your preferred color is among the approved options, giving you more flexibility than you might expect.

If you envision your home with a unique color like yellow, fuchsia, or light green, don’t hesitate to embrace it. After all, your home’s exterior should be a reflection of your style, particularly if you plan to live there for many years. While resale value is a factor to consider, your enjoyment and satisfaction with your home are important, especially if you’re not planning to move in the foreseeable future. Choosing a color you love can turn your house into a home that feels truly yours.

When Selling Your House

On the other hand, if you’re considering selling your home in the next few years, choosing a siding color that appeals to buyers is a smart move. Dark blue and gray continue to be popular choices, but other shades can also boost your home’s resale value. According to Home Inspection Insider, neutral tones like light tan, wheat, white, and light gray are among the most sought-after options for home exteriors. These colors appeal to a broad range of potential buyers, making your home more attractive and easier to sell. White siding, for instance, offers a classic, timeless look that pairs well with various trim colors. Light gray, on the other hand, adds a modern touch that works in any geographical location.

When selecting a color, remember that neutral hues typically attract the most buyers, providing a versatile backdrop that complements different architectural styles and surroundings​. Your siding contractor can help you explore the best color options to match current trends and enhance your home’s marketability.

Consider How Much Sunlight Your Home Gets

If your home receives a lot of direct sunlight, opt for a lighter shade of your chosen color. Lighter hues reflect sunlight more effectively, helping to keep your home cooler during the summer. However, keep in mind that sunlight can intensify the appearance of the color, making it look brighter than it actually is. This means selecting a slightly darker hue makes sense in some situations.

Conversely, a darker shade can be a better choice if your home is in a shaded area or doesn’t get much sunlight. Darker colors absorb heat, which may be beneficial when the weather turns cold in New Jersey. However, keep in mind that darker shades tend to fade faster when exposed to sunlight and the elements, meaning you might need to replace the siding more frequently than with lighter colors. Taking these factors into account can help you choose a color that suits your home’s environment and reduces long-term maintenance costs.

How Your Siding Complements the Rest of Your House

Your siding is just one part of your home’s exterior, so it’s crucial to consider how it will coordinate with other elements like shutters, doors, trim, and even your roof. Opting for a versatile color such as white or gray is often a safe choice, as these shades blend well with a wide range of other hues. For instance, if you choose dark gray siding, you can add a pop of color with red, blue, or green shutters, creating a bold yet cohesive look that won’t seem out of place.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more monochromatic appearance, you can match the siding with your shutters and front door, using different shades to add depth and dimension. For instance, pairing a deep red door with slightly lighter red shutters and siding creates a unified aesthetic without being overwhelming. However, contrast can often enhance curb appeal, so adding complementary colors can make your home stand out while maintaining a sense of harmony.

Get Samples Before Committing

A great way to visualize how a particular color will look on your home is to order samples that you can place directly against your house. Many contractors offer a set of sample colors, allowing you to test different hues without any pressure or cost. This sample set allows you to see how each shade appears at various times of the day, ensuring you choose a color that looks great in bright sunlight and shaded areas.

Additionally, consider using an online visualization tool that lets you experiment with different colors on a digital version of your home. This tool can save you time by helping you quickly narrow down your choices or discover new options, all from the comfort of your own space. Combining physical samples with virtual previews ensures you make a confident decision that enhances your home’s appearance.

Contact Your Local Siding Pros

At Warren Thompson & Son Roofing & Siding, we have been serving the residents of Alpha, NJ, and the surrounding areas since 1973. In addition to installing siding, we can help with all your roofing and gutter needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.