Things You'll Need:
- Paint chips
- Paint samples
- Exterior paint brush or roller
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Step 1
Consider the style of your home and the paint colors that are traditionally associated with that style. If you have a classic colonial, for example, look to red, white or blue with black accents.
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Step 2
Look at the other homes in your neighborhood and the colors they are painted. You'll want your home to shine, but not stand out like a sore thumb.
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Step 3
Start narrowing your choices with the help of an online program. Most paint manufacturers' websites offer programs that allow you to browse its colors and pick a palette that coordinates.
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Step 4
Visit your local hardware store, and check out the exterior paint chips available. Choose your samples from a high-quality latex brand that uses quality pigments, like titanium dioxide. Bring your favorites home to share with friends or family.
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Step 5
Narrow the chips to a favorite 2 or 3 main colors and accent colors, and purchase small sample cans of exterior paint in those selections.
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Step 6
Clean an area of your home's exterior, and paint a test patch of each of your color options with an exterior paint brush or roller. Place potential trim and accent colors alongside the main colors to see how the shades work together. Allow the paint to dry completely as the colors may look different when wet.
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Step 7
Look at the test patches in the morning, mid-day, afternoon and evening. Colors may look different in the various lights.
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Step 8
Select the color that looks best and that you feel comfortable with.
