If you are planning to update the look of your work or living space, then nothing is more appealing than giving it a different look and feel thanks to a fresh coat of paint. Several factors work together in determining the overall look of your space. However, hiring a painting company to do the work is the most important decision of all.

If a space is well-painted, it delivers an appealing look. If a space isn't painted properly, the area looks uneven and not aesthetically pleasing. This is why it is worth the money to go ahead and hire a professional, licensed, and insured painting company to do the work. Correctly painted areas bring out the interior or exterior beauty of the space.

Years of Expertise and Knowledge

Professional painting contractors possess years of expertise and knowledge when it comes to painting ceilings and walls that you can’t get from any other professional like a handyman. They know the right paint, tools, and equipment for your space, ensuring you get the best possible results. Plus, professional painters offer valuable tips and advice such as which paint will work best for your project, as well as which paints will last longer and look better.

The Necessary Tools and Materials

Another advantage of hiring a painting company is that the crew comes ready to the property with all the necessary tools and materials to perform the work efficiently. This includes primers, ladders, sanding machines, drop cloths, brushes, rollers, and sealants that can help guarantee your painted spaces look top-notch.

Fast Turnaround

Professional painters know the importance of working effectively and fast. Therefore, you can depend on them to get the job done in a timely fashion. Whether you want one room painted or your whole house, painting contractors will work around your schedule and finish the job.

Meticulous Prep Work

Using a professional painter means that they’ll prepare each area before they begin painting. This includes sanding surfaces, cleaning walls, and filling holes. Taking time to prep the areas beforehand ensures little to no messes will be made while the painters are working.

Post-job Cleanup

Painting professionals will take the time to clean up afterward. This includes wiping down surfaces, throwing away garbage, and getting rid of empty paint containers.

Hire the Best Painters to Do Your Paint Job

Hiring an experienced Denver painting company ensures your painting job is done correctly. You can be sure that all safety guidelines are followed, top-quality paints are used, and the work is performed with a high level of workmanship.

Moreover, a painting company will take extreme care in guaranteeing that no messes are made, and the job is completed promptly. So, if you’re desiring to get a fresh coat on your walls, it’s worth investing in the services of a skilled interior painter. You won’t be disappointed!

Mastering the Best Techniques for Prepping Surfaces Before Painting

Many people underestimate the time and energy it takes to paint a room or an entire building. Each painting job is unique and requires different skills and supplies. But the one thing that is true for all painting projects is that you will need to prep your surfaces before picking up that roller or brush.

This article will explore why properly prepping surfaces is so important and what you’ll need to do to get the professional results you want.

Why Do I Need to Prep My Surfaces Before Painting?

Paint pros know that the difference between a fantastic paint job and a major disappointment is preparation. Failing to prepare your surfaces can result in spotty coverage, streaks, and ugly lumps and bumps. Instead of a smooth, clean-looking wall, you’ll see imperfections and uneven coverage.

When you are excited about a fresh coat of color, or you’re in a rush to finish the job quickly, skipping the prep and getting straight to the painting part can be tempting. But ignoring this essential process may cause the project to take even longer or require more energy because you’ll need to paint more coats–or even start over from square one.

Don’t skip the prep. Learn how to prepare your surfaces and take the time to do it well. A little investment of time can save you much more down the road, and you’ll be much happier with the results.

Get a free quote

A Step-by-Step Guide to Prepping a Surface For Painting

Most people don’t paint every day, and many don’t know how to prepare a surface for painting properly. Taking a little extra time in the beginning can save you a lot of time and stress later on. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your walls ready for a fresh coat of paint.

Step 1:Clean

Cleaning is an essential first step that you absolutely should not skip. Even if you believe your walls are clean, dust, cobwebs, and oil from being touched can build up over time. Painting dirty walls means paint can’t go on smoothly, won’t dry as evenly, and is more likely to show imperfections.

The way you clean depends on whether you’re painting interior or exterior walls. When painting inside, begin by using a duster or dry cloth all over the wall. Pay special attention to corners and where the wall meets the ceiling and floor. This step will remove a lot of the dust and cobwebs that can accumulate over time.

Next, wipe down the walls with a damp cloth or soft sponge soaked in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Don’t skip this step–you’ll want to ensure you’ve removed as much dust, dirt, and buildup as possible. Kitchen walls may need special attention because they are often exposed to more smoke, oil, and splatters than other surfaces. Use a grease-cutting detergent to remove tough buildup if necessary.

For exterior surfaces, cleaning is even more critical. Outdoor surfaces are exposed to all kinds of environmental debris, from leaves and insects to pollen, dander, and dirt. Power washing is generally the quickest and most effective way to remove outdoor buildup.

Step 2: Remove Mildew

Mildew is a type of fungus that can multiply in moist places, such as damp basements, under sinks, and in your bathroom fixtures. Mildew smells terrible and is believed to make people sick, so you should remove it whenever you find it in your home.

Mildew can also grow on walls, especially in rooms where there is a lot of moisture, such as a bathroom. If you plan to paint in an area where you have mildew, you’ll need to remove it before getting started. Painting over the mildew will not eliminate it, and it can still grow and spread.

Before painting a mildewy wall, wash it with warm water and antibacterial dish soap. You may also use vinegar to kill the mildew. Simply mix a solution of vinegar and water for light mildew coverage, or apply undiluted vinegar onto areas where the mildew is thick.

If you have mold or mildew on your exterior walls, use a store bought mildew remover or make your own by combining 1 part bleach in 3 parts water. You can use this mixture when power washing before you paint. This will kill existing mold and prevent it from returning.

In some cases, mildew can be so heavy and pervasive that you’ll need to sandpaper it away. You should use 150-grit sandpaper to remove the mildew, then wash the entire surface with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.

Step 3: Sand

Sanding is an essential step in prepping walls for painting because it ensures that the surface is as smooth as possible, allowing the paint to go on smoothly. Even if your walls have been painted in the past, you must sand any rough or uneven areas.

Look carefully at your walls and use your hands to feel for rough spots or raised imperfections. Once you’ve found areas that require smoothing, use a sanding block or sandpaper to even out the surface. Then use a damp cloth to remove the dust and allow it to dry completely.

If you find cracks in the existing paint, do not simply paint over them. Cracked or flaking paint can cause unsightly lumps and imperfections. Take the time to scrape or sand any areas of cracked or chipped paint before applying a new coat.

Step 4: Protect

Protecting nearby surfaces and furniture is one of the most critical steps in preparing to paint. Move anything you can into another room, including furniture and rugs. Lay down canvas drop cloths over floors and any furniture you can’t move. Remove decorative light fixtures, light switch and outlet covers, and any vent and return covers in the room.

Use painter’s tape to protect molding, baseboards, around windows, and any other features you don’t want to paint. Taking these steps will make sure you get clean lines and minimize mess.

Step 5: Patch

You’ll need to patch any holes or imperfections to get the smoothest coverage. Use drywall patching compound to fill in nail holes or to repair large scuffs. You may also need to provide texture after patching to match the existing surface.  This will allow your paint to go on smoothly and get the clean, professional look you want.

Step 5: Prime

The color and finish of your paint are clearly an important part of how your new paint will look. But the primer you use will also significantly affect your overall results when painting.

Primers cover up imperfections, allow the paint to dry uniformly, and create a smooth surface for your paint to adhere to depending on the surface, using a separate primer may be the best way to get professional-looking results.

Giving your surfaces a coat of primer can actually save you time, energy, and money in the long run. You’ll spend less time painting and re-painting multiple coats and be happier with the results.

Step 6: Check the paint

After you’ve sanded, filled, taped, and smoothed your walls to perfection, it’s almost time to get those rollers to work. But before you can get painting, it’s essential to check your paint one last time. Open a can and make sure the paint is mixed completely. You should see uniform color with no streaks of saturated pigment.

Do a small test patch to ensure the color and finish are correct. Choose an inconspicuous area of the room and apply a little paint. Let it dry completely to get a sense of how the color will look. If you’re satisfied that the color and finish are correct, you may finally begin to paint.

While taking these steps may require more time and energy, you’ll appreciate the effort when you get the professional results you hoped for.

See our Reviews

Find a Denver Painting Company

If you’d rather let professionals handle your residential and commercial painting projects, find a Denver painting company you’ll love. The friendly professionals at Colorado Painting are ready to give you a customized quote for your project. Call us today to get started.

The best way to avoid the most common paint problems is to understand them before tackling this can-be-intimidating project.

Color is essential in defining a room – it evokes a feeling, mood, or response from all who enter. So, it is natural for you to want to give your space a makeover to best share your unique vibe. But you don't want to do it at the risk of a poor outcome.

So understanding the pitfalls first – before you grab a brush or roller – will help you get the beautiful results you deserve.

painting baseboards yourself

What Are the Most Common Paint Problems That DIYers Experience?

Painting looks easy at face value, especially on social sites like Pinterest. But the reality is that it takes a good bit of practice, know-how, and tons of prep work to get a flawless finish.

Here are five of the most common paint problems Colorado Painting has experienced.

Now that you know some of the difficulties some people experience in painting, we can look at the causes. More importantly, we can talk about how to fix them.

What Causes Paint Cracks or Fissures?

Cracks in your paint job mean that the paint did not adhere to the surface correctly.

That's usually the result of three possible reasons:

How to fix cracked paint:

You may ask yourself this question: Can you paint over cracking paint? Unfortunately, adding more paint over this poor surface will not fix your issue.

But here's the good news.

Although the repair is time-consuming, it is a relatively simple problem to fix.

  1. Sand the affected areas to smooth the surface
  2. Vacuum up all grit and debris--then give the walls a quick wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth.
  3. Apply primer (if you skipped that step); allow the primer to dry completely (check the manufacturer's label)
  4. Reapply the paint.

flaked and cracked paint

What Causes Paint to Peel or Flake?

Flaky paint usually results from using an old or low-quality primer or paint.

Avoid the urge to "use up" old paint in the garage from a decade ago just because you spent money on it – this will only lead to more headache and paint later.

How to fix flaky paint:

Like the previous problem, you cannot take shortcuts or hide this poor finish.

Here's what to do:

  1. Use a scraper to gently separate flakes. They will likely start to come off in large peels.
  2. Sand the surface to make it smooth again.
  3. Vacuum any sanding particles and damp wipe the walls. Let them dry completely (it takes just a few moments).
  4. Apply a new, good-quality primer; let it cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Use unexpired, good paint to reapply.

What Causes Paint Bubbling and Blistering?

Similarly to one of the previous common paint problems – paint cracking – pain bubbling indicates that the product did not adhere well to the surface.

Generally, this comes from one of these two things:

The paint may somewhat grip to the surface in most places, but other areas may have too much "slip," and that is where bubbles or blisters form.

How to fix bubbly or blistered paint:

If your wall was clean at the start of your project, you might have oil-based paint underneath – hire Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting for professional results. We have the correct bonding primer to switch from older oil-based paints to modern-day latex and the experience to give you the best finish. It is one of the common paint problems our pros see in mid-century or older homes.

However, if you have an oil-splattered or dirty wall on your hands, you can fix this problem yourself.

Here's how:

  1. Sand the affected areas to create a smooth surface.
  2. Vacuum the sanding and paint debris and use a damp cloth to wipe down all the wall surfaces to remove all dirt, cobwebs, oils (especially cooking oils in a kitchen), or any other barriers to adhesion. Let the walls dry after your wipe-down.
  3. Apply a high-quality primer; let it cure per the manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Reapply your paint color of choice.

dripping paint

What Causes Running or Dripping Paint?

Paint runs or drips indicate that you loaded too much product into the brush or roller – one of the most common paint mistakes for an enthusiastic DIYer.

Fortunately, most notice this issue pretty quickly. Stop as soon as you notice it and address it immediately.

How to fix running or dripping paint:

  1. Stop using the overloaded paint brush – grab a clean one.
  2. If the run is still wet, you can try to pick the paint up and feather it out, blending it with the rest of the surface.
  3. If the paint has already dried, you should wait until all the paint in the room dries completely. This patience will help you avoid an altogether new mess.
  4. Sand down the run.
  5. Vacuum any debris and damp-wipe the wall – allow it a few minutes to dry.
  6. Repaint the wall – don't panic if the paint appears darker than the nearby surfaces. Remember, the surrounding area is dry, and the tone changes.

How to grab the correct amount of paint with your brush:

What Causes a Poorly-Textured Wall Finish?

Poor texture arises from poor preparation, and it's usually the same culprit – a dirty or gritty wall. Some inexperienced painters get so excited to start their projects that they don't even consider cleaning first.

This common paint problem is similar to bubbling and blistering – and you can fix it the same way.

  1. Sand the surfaces to create smoothness.
  2. Vacuum and damp-wipe down every nook and cranny (not too wet!) and let it dry.
  3. Apply a good primer; let it cure according to the manufacturer's label.
  4. Reapply the paint.

Avoid Most Common Paint Problems with a Professional Painter

Painting looks easy when you look at the DIY sharers on Pinterest – but it does take practice, knowledge, and excellent preparation.

If you want a flawless finish that will impress your visitors, you might find it more convenient to rely on the Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting professionals. We will give you the luxe look you desire.

Ceilings are often the most overlooked and forgotten part of painting the interior of your home. They are easy to miss for one reason or another (maybe because we’re not looking up a lot). However, your ceiling merits the same thought put into the design, color, and overall look that your home’s walls have been given. 

As a matter of fact, painting your ceiling can lighten up the space and add a hint of warmth to your home (among other great reasons).

Painting a ceiling isn’t a pain in the neck, either. It is typically a project that can be easily and quickly done with the right tools and supplies.So, are you ready to paint your ceiling? 

Let us help guide you on the best tips for painting ceilings.

painting ceiling

Tips on Painting a Ceiling

Whether you are a DIYer or would rather have a professional residential interior painter come do it, here are some things we’d recommend when it comes to painting your ceiling…

Paint with the Right Equipment

The kind of supplies you will need in order to start painting is determined by how tall and wide your ceiling is.

For most ceiling painting, you can use a long-handled paint roller to get the job done. 

In some homes, you may need a ladder to reach the ceiling for painting. 

Before You Paint, Do Some Prep

One of the biggest tips for painting ceilings is taking time to prepare.

Set yourself up for success and plan ahead. The more preparation that’s done, the higher the likelihood is of having a well-painted ceiling.

Step 1: Make Space

Before you start painting your ceiling, make sure to move as much of your furniture from the room as you can. This will allow your painting experience to be much simpler and less chaotic. Open up the space to work as easy as you can.

If by chance you can't totally remove your furniture from the room, just push it to the middle and cover everything with drop cloths.

Take down any chandeliers or other lighting fixtures, so you have nothing in your way. This can allow you to paint the whole ceiling without the stress of getting paint on a light or fan or something. 

In the event that you can't take out a fixture, make sure the light is taped and concealed before you get everything rolling.

Step 2: Put Down Drop Cloths & Clean The Ceiling

Painting can definitely be messy, especially when you paint above your head.

You can protect your floor and bigger pieces of furniture from paint by placing down drop cloths in your area of painting.

The more space you can cover, the better. If you run out of drop cloths, you can always end up using newspapers, tarps, old towels, or even old bed sheets.

Also, prep your ceiling surface and walls by making sure to thoroughly clean them. Make sure you rinse and completely dry your ceiling before you start painting. This will ensure that the paint adheres to the ceiling correctly.

Step 3: Tape the Tops of the Walls

Tape off the tops of the walls where your ceiling and your wall meet with each other. Use 2-inch painter's tape to keep roller marks off the walls. Avoid using 1-inch tape, due to the tape not being wide enough to prevent the paint roller from touching the walls.

painting ceiling tips

Time To Paint Your Ceiling

Okay, now comes the fun part.

Step 1: Prime the Ceiling

Use your long-handled roller and apply a coat of interior latex paint primer. Make sure not to skip this step. By using the primer, it will allow for a stain-resistant and only need one coat of paint.  

When drying, follow the instructions left by the paint’s manufacturer.

Step 2: Start By Painting The Borders First

Like painting a wall, you'll need to begin by what we call "cutting in,” or utilizing smaller paint brushes to paint around the border of your ceiling. Give yourself a few inches of paint here, so that you’re less likely to touch any details or corners that you don’t want painted.

Use a brush to begin at the edge of the ceiling and paint into the ceiling a couple inches. You'll need to feather the strokes so the edge will mix in consistently once you utilize a roller to paint the remainder of the roof.

To make “cutting in” simpler, ensure you're using the proper ladder for your ceiling level. Trying to reach isn't just hazardous, but can also bring about sore muscles (literally a pain in the neck) the following day. So, get comfortable on that ladder before you get to painting.

Empty some paint into a bucket to keep at the highest point of the stepping stool as opposed to bringing the whole can.

Step 3: Grab Your Roller and Start Painting

To begin, pour and mix your paint into your paint tray. Empty paint into the roller plate no higher than where the washboard section of your tray begins to incline away from the paint pool. This is to assist with trying not to submerge the roller into the paint. This keeps from too much paint being on the roller and causing drips.

Take your long-handled roller and begin from the edge of the ceiling and begin rolling closest to a window.

Begin painting away from one corner in as straight of a line as you can until the ceiling is totally shrouded in paint.

Each time you load your roller, start on an unpainted region of your ceiling and work your way back into a painted area. Try to paint your ceiling in one session. This will allow the paint to dry consistently.

Step 4: Apply a 2nd Coat

Wait for your first coat of paint to dry in order to determine if a second coat is needed. 

Check the label instructions for dry times. 

Step 5: Clean Up

Remove the tape while the paint is wet to keep from damaging any of your hard work when the paint dries. When removing drop cloths, wait for the paint to dry so you don’t spill or make a mess.

painting interior ceiling

Leave It To the Pros!

When all is said and done, painting your ceiling can be an intimidating, messy, and time-consuming chore. While we can give tips on painting ceilings, or tips on just about anything, an expert painter from Colorado Painting will always leave the project looking as good and stress-free as possible.

So, the best tip if you aren’t up to the hassle, hire a professional residential interior painting company. A professional makes the job fast and great-looking.

At Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting, we offer expert advice, expert painting, and customer service with very competitive prices.

Contact us today for a free estimate on your next painting project.

An accent wall is an ideal method for acquainting a new look to a room without focusing on the whole room's worth of color.

Accent walls are very stylish and will look astounding pretty much in any room.

In a flash, they cause a room to "pop" and ultimately help express you as a homeowner. Accent walls can be an incredible extension to a home makeover. They are very easy to do, don’t require a lot of money, nor do professionals cost too much if you want/need help. Yet, they should be executed the correct way or risk feeling like they stick out like a sore thumb.

When approaching the task of painting an accent wall, there is a good amount of consideration you will need to put into place; what wall to put it on, selecting the best colors, etc.

So, if you are pondering whether to paint an accent wall but don't know how or what to do, here are some accent wall rules of thumb to get you started.

living room accent wall

What is an Accent Wall?

An accent wall is a solitary wall in a room that is deliberately painted in a different color variety compared to the rest of the space, to separate itself. To set the room apart for the rest.

An accent wall will typically become the ultimate focal point of the room. They can also cause a space to seem bigger and more extensive than it really is. This can be a tremendous advantage when the measured area’s size is a worry of yours.

Accent walls can be utilized in any space in your home. They are used in kitchens, living rooms, offices, bathrooms, etc.

Choosing an Accent Wall

One of the first accent wall rules of thumb is to pick the accent wall.

Picking the right wall as your accent wall is the initial step to an attention-getting accent wall.

Try to avoid using the smaller rooms in your home. Accent walls tend to look their absolute best in well-lit, open spaces.

An unfortunate accent wall decision could mean the difference between a room that is professional and a room that simply looks like it doesn’t belong.

Whichever wall you pick, be certain there's motivation to draw someone’s attention to the accent. But how will you know where to put an accent wall? Where is the best placement?

Consider the Focal Point of the Room

When deciding your accent wall location, one thing you should consider is the natural focal point of the room. Where do your eyes naturally fall upon entering?

The right wall to accent is usually the first one that you see when you enter a room.

Focal points for accent walls include:

If your room lacks any substantial focal point, try to create one. This is where you can let your imagination shine and creativity flow. Allow the furniture and decor of your home to help you create a natural focal point for your room.

kitchen accent wall

Creating a Focal Point

Think about things that stand out or help make a room stand out. That should help you create focal points for an accent wall – things like:

When considering a wall for painting, make sure that you avoid walls with large furniture or windows. This will take away from the point of your accent wall and can end up with your room looking smaller. Make sure to utilize the ceiling as well.

If colors don’t seem to be coming together, adding some ceiling color can shake the look up.

Choosing The Right Color

When choosing the best color for your accent take a look at your current color scheme. Choosing shades of that color for ease in picking. Also, using the little accent colors from throw pillows, furniture, artwork, and other items in your space.

You can use color to your advantage. Certain colors will make a short wall seem long or a long wall seem short.

The right color may even come from considering the function of the room you're decorating. Different colors evoke different emotions. The color blue is seen as more relaxing/calming whereas red is energetic.

To maintain a more neutral tone, using tans and browns keeps the space looking natural in color.

In order to not overpower your room’s color scheme, professionals use a little rule called the 60-30-10 wall color rule to maintain the space’s color balance.

Simply put, 60% of your room will have the dominant color, 30% should primarily be the secondary color, and 10% the accent color.

Think About The Other Wall Colors

Lastly, think about the other wall colors when considering your accent wall. A color clashing accent wall is a big bummer you don’t want to run into.

Accent walls tend to look their best when they connect the walls color in a scale from light to medium in shade.

Blend your bold accent wall color with more neutral colors like brown, gray, or beige.

living room red accent wall

Colorado Painting: Interior Painting Professionals

Having an accent wall can be very transformative for the way your house looks and can give your home new life. Though, as you probably know, painting can be one heck of a process (and mess).

Having a clean, dependable, and legitimate painting company will grant you peace of mind in a timely manner, allowing you to know that the painting will be done appropriately and with utmost meticulousness.

We can reduce your expenses by wiping out errors that frequently go with Do-It-Yourself paint projects.

At Colorado Painting, our knowledge in various paint styles, varieties, etc. makes us the specialists you'll want for any interior painting job.

Schedule a free estimate, where we can also give you painting tips – just like these accent wall rules of thumb.

The exterior of your home can make a huge impact on not only the visual appeal of your house, but also the way it feels. The right colors can make you feel comfortable, cozy and satisfied with how your house looks. That’s why it’s so important to choose the best exterior accent colors for your white house.

exterior accent colors for house

Top Accent Colors For The Exterior Of A White House

We know just how hard it can be to decide on a good color when there are so many options out there.

Here are our top six accent colors for your home.

Modern White

Modern white is a great color choice for a white house, especially if you're looking to give it an updated look.

This shade of white will make your home seem fresh and new without being too trendy. If you have an older home that's in need of some love and care, Modern White is the perfect way to clean up its facade while still preserving the integrity of its original design.

Unlike other shades of white that are often used as neutral colors (such as linen white), modern white can be paired with just about anything—from bright blues like Bluebonnet or Azure Cotton to rich greens like Emerald Forest or Amethyst Orchid—and still look good on any palette. This makes Modern White a great option for those who want their homes' exterior paint accent colors to complement their interior decorating schemes rather than clash with them.

Crisp Grey

While a crisp grey may sound like it would be more suited to the interior of a home, it's actually a great exterior paint color. The color can be used to create an interesting contrast between the white exterior and crisp grey siding or trim, which creates an interesting effect.

This accent color is also neutral enough to work with any type of house, especially a white home, but still has some contrast for those who want their house to stand out from others on their street. It is especially attractive when used on homes that have large windows or a lot of natural light coming into the home because they help offset some of its darker tones.

The gray family of colors includes shades like dove, silver, ash and slate. These are all neutral colors that work well with any other shade because they offer enough contrast to offset each other without being too bright or dark.

Beige Neutrals

Beige is a neutral color that works well with just about any other colors as an accent color. Beige can also be used as a primary exterior color on its own or paired with another neutral, such as gray or cream. It's also a good choice for homes with a lot of natural light because it won't reflect too much heat back into the house. The main drawback of beige is that it can look bland and boring if you don't have any accent colors on your home to break up the color. This is especially true when used as a primary exterior paint color because it won't give your home much personality or visual interest.

green accent color on white house

Forest Green

Forest green is a dark green color that looks great as an accent or background color. It's a neutral, almost yellowish-green, which gives it an earthy feel. Forest green is lighter than hunter green and can be used on its own in smaller spaces. If you want to use more than one color on your home, this would be a good choice for the area where people will be most of the time (patios/ decks) because it's less bold than many other green accent colors for your home.

Earthy Browns

If you're looking for a bold color that will bring warmth and texture to any home, Earthy Browns are one of your best options. In addition to the rich hues they offer, they also have a variety of undertones which can be used to create different looks. For example, yellows and taupes tend to be brighter and warmer while browns with red undertones are more muted and cooler in feel.

Earthy browns are especially well-suited for modern homes because their neutral tones allow them to flow seamlessly with other elements in a space without overpowering them or distracting from other aspects of design—the perfect choice if you have several different styles competing for attention!

Navy Blue

Navy blue is one of the best exterior accent colors for a white house or any light-colored house, as it contrasts nicely, like forest green does.

If you have a large house with lots of windows, navy blue is an excellent choice as an exterior accent color. The dark color will make the outside seem darker and smaller, which makes it appear more open and inviting. This color is perfect for properties that have a lot of outdoor space or large lawns. The dark hue may be too overwhelming to some if used throughout your exterior design scheme.

The downside is that navy works best with larger houses because it makes them appear smaller than they actually are! So if you live in an apartment building or condo townhouse in Colorado but still want something bolder, navy is among the best exterior accent colors for white homes.

Which Accent Color is Best for Your House?

Choosing the right exterior paint color and accents for your home is crucial. Here are some tips to help you choose the right exterior paint color:

We hope that this article has given you some inspiration for your next paint job. Whether you choose to go with a bold color or one of our more subtle suggestions, remember that the most important thing is to pick something that you love and make sure it’s going to last.

commercial exterior painting

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting Can Help

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting (CCRP) is a highly rated Colorado painting contractor that has over 39 years of industry experience within both Residential and Commercial properties.

A primary focus of Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting is treating its customers with respect, integrity, and clear communication. The painting industry is full of contractors ranging from independent contractors to large-scale companies and we fall right in the middle. We are here to provide a professional service that you would expect from any large company, but with the customer service and support of a small local business. Our prices are competitive and we strive to exceed your expectations.

Let us take the pain out of the painting and show you how maintaining and beautifying your home or property can be uncomplicated and worry-free. We know how to help you pick the best exterior accent color for your white home (or any color).

As you’ve been getting home from work lately, you’ve probably realized that your home’s once vibrant color is starting to look a little shabby. You are itching for an opportunity to get some fresh paint on ye ol' home. But the heat! It’s been too hot outside lately to even consider painting it. Then you start thinking, "Maybe this is a good time to paint my home." What exactly is the best temperature to paint the exterior of your house?

Finding the best temperature to paint your home’s exterior is fundamental for a quality, work of art kind of a job. So, when is it too hot or too cold to paint your home’s exterior?

These are a couple of house painting questions many homeowners ask themselves throughout the fall and mid year months.

Whether you are tackling the project or are hiring someone, these are a few things to consider on when painting the exterior of your house.

types of exterior paint

Which Paints Are Best?

Like any big home improvement decision, you will want to do some studying to determine the best paint decision for your home. Prior to picking your favorite paint color, you’ll want to understand what sort of paint your home really needs. Some paints dry faster than others, and some paints can endure the weather changes a bit better than others. Both of these are big factors to consider when thinking about time and temperature, as Colorado can sometimes be unpredictable, weather-wise.

Latex Paint

Latex paint has been a common choice of paint since the 1950s. Latex paint is often water-based which is good for the environment and yourself.

Latex paint is strong, mildew-resistant, and adequately thick enough to usually get the job done in one coat. Latex paint is easier to apply and has a much quicker drying time when compared to other paints.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint can withstand direct sunlight far better than latex. The chemicals used in the paint gives more elasticity which allows acrylic paint to expand and contract as temperatures change.

While latex paint is water-based, acrylic is chemical-based which makes it harder to fix if a mistake arises.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint dries to a smooth, hard surface that stands up well to the Colorado weather. Oil-based paints are made from a strong resin which makes the paint incredibly durable to sun damage.

The downside to using oil-based paints is that they are more likely to fade or crack than acrylic and latex paints. Oil-based paints are not widely used today because of the hazardous fumes it emits when wet.

Oil-based paints are also very difficult to get clean once spilled on something it wasn’t supposed to.

painting exterior house in hot temperatures

The Effects of Temperature On Paint

The problem with outdoor temperatures being either too high or too low is that your paint might not bind to other materials properly.

Heat and Warm Temperatures

Direct sunlight and heat can affect paint drying and curing. Hot temperatures mean the paint dries almost instantly when applied.

Latex paint is water-based and needs sufficient time for the water to naturally evaporate for the paint to cure. When the paint doesn’t cure properly, it can lead to bubbling, cracking, or peeling of your paint once it dries.

Cold/Freezing Temperatures

Painting your house at lower temperatures will greatly impact your paint’s drying time and overall consistency.

So, if you are trying to brave the cold and paint your house, don’t paint outside when it’s below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. If done at lower temperatures, it will cause your paint to cure incorrectly. The results may leave you with ugly bumps/bubbles in your paint when spring arrives. Worse yet, it can lower the lifespan of your paint job.

Painting in Wet Conditions

Colorado is infamous for its unconventional and eccentric weather patterns. It can rain, snow, or hail just about out of nowhere sometimes.

As a general rule, paint should only be applied to dry surfaces. So even after the rain, snow, or hail; you need to allow plenty of time for the exterior of your home to dry before applying any paint. This allows the paint to not get washed off.

If there is any precipitation in the forecast, you’ll need to hold off on painting. Typically, you’ll need 4-8 hours of dry time (minimum) after it rains for things to completely dry out.

painting exterior house in fall

The Best Temperature To Paint The Exterior of Your House

In Colorado, the best time of year to paint your house is between late April and early October. Temperatures between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit are going to be the most optimal. That being said, there is some leeway on temperature, with about 10 degrees on both sides of the spectrum.

Although there are great days and temperatures to paint the exterior of your house in just about every month of the year, the window of opportunity really begins in late April. This will allow you to avoid most of the precipitation associated with our spring season.

The mid-summer is another one of the best times as far as temperature goes to paint your home in Colorado. With low precipitation, warm temperatures, and plenty of sunshine, the season allows your paint to dry and cure as it was meant to.

The window to paint the exterior of your home closes in early October. After this time of year (for the most part), the temperature drops too low for painting.

Nothing sets the scene for summertime fun quite like a beautiful deck at your home. Wooden decks yearn for barbecues and family and friend get-togethers. You are a part of a glorious American tradition. Having a deck adds a layer of personality and life to the exterior of your home. Your deck is an extension of the rest of your home. So when you see peeling paint and washed-out stain on the wood, it can put the brakes on the summertime celebrations.

As I’m sure you’ve realized, having a deck at your home requires a decent amount of maintenance to remain a polished-looking beauty. Wood can become painful to look at if left unprotected in the elements. Your deck will warp, crack, and twist without the proper protection. The sun isn’t especially friendly to your deck either. Ultra-violet rays discolor the deck over time, whether it’s unprotected, painted, or stained. The sun is also responsible for the breakdown of the wood’s lignin. Lignin is the natural glue that holds its fibers together.

Since you’ve noticed the paint is peeling and just starting to lose its overall shine, you start asking yourself, should I paint my deck?

Whether you choose to paint or stain your deck, the decision comes down to the look you want, what kind of protection you need, and how much time and energy you want to spend on applying the paint or stain. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between painting and staining your deck.

Whether you decide to paint or stain your deck depends on the appearance you desire, the level of protection you require, and how much time and effort you want to put into the painting or staining process.

Should I Paint My Deck?

Prepping Your Deck For Painting or Staining

No matter which route you ultimately decide to choose, the absolute first step in the process is to prep your deck. This includes sweeping away any trace amounts of dirt and debris, scrubbing the wood of your deck with a deck-specific cleaner, and smoothing away rough patches with sandpaper.

Ensure that any rotten wood boards are fixed and replaced, that all nails and screws are tight, and that any holes are filled with exterior-grade wood filler. For paint to adhere correctly and for stains to cure, a clean surface is necessary.

Clean your deck, then allow it to completely dry. You will need to strip and sand your deck if it is already painted and seems old from use and abuse.

Painting Your Deck

There are many reasons why you should paint your deck, but be aware that by doing so, the paint hides the distinctive details in the wood that give it character. Painting your deck has more color options and lasts longer than staining.

Many homeowners like the uniform appearance that paint offers. If your deck is especially old and worn, this might be a nice alternative. Paint totally conceals the grain of the wood, whereas stain seeps into the wood, giving your deck a tidy, sharp appearance. If your deck is more aged, paint can conceal faults (such as cracks and other blemishes) far better than stain, giving it the appearance of a brand-new deck.

By selecting an organic color scheme, such as taupes, browns, sand-colored tones, and shades of green that mirror the great outdoors, you can still get a natural effect with paint even though you are hiding the wood grain.

Because of its consistent application, paint provides your deck a more streamlined, minimalist aesthetic for more contemporary homes, whereas stains allow a wood's subtleties and differences to shine through. Additionally, there are additional color options with paints, and you may even choose a paint.

Painting your deck

When selecting paint, you will have two options:

Oil-based paint
These paints offer moisture protection and frequently have extended shelf lives. They are more resistant to normal wear and tear than latex because of their strength. Oil-based paints often provide a smooth finish and have good surface adherence.

Latex paint
The ideal places to utilize latex paints are in environments with higher temperatures since they resist UV fading. These paints dry faster than oil-based paints, emit less smell, and are resistant to cracking and chipping.

Pros of Painting Your Deck

 Cons of Painting Your Deck

Prepping Your Deck For Painting or Staining

Staining Your Deck

Your deck is shielded from the elements by staining it, preserving and enhancing the wood’s original, natural beauty. You may emphasize wood's distinctive qualities and lovely grain. For your deck, you'll probably choose a clear sealer or a semi-transparent stain, but stains can provide a lot of options:

Solid Stains

Solid stains hide the majority of the wood's natural features, much like with paint. It produces a darker, more uniform appearance.

Semi-transparent Stains

Semi-transparent stains offer a hint of color while letting the wood's distinctive qualities and patterns show through. They also offer weather-proofing and UV protection.

Clear Wood Preserves

This kind of stain works best on decks made of beautiful wood, including rich cedar and redwood, where you want to preserve the wood's natural color and highlight its beauty. To prevent the wood from fading over time, certain transparent wood preservatives provide UV protection. To prevent the wood from growing mold and mildew, the majority also contain fungicide. Additionally, they have less wax than a transparent water repellent or sealer.

Pros of Staining Your Deck

Cons of Staining Your Deck

Cracks are not filled by staining. A wooden deck can have defects, small holes, and grooves filled with paint. Because stain is thinner than paint and won't do much to cover cracks and splinters, you can't rely on it as a repair technique.

Have you ever walked through your neighborhood and said to yourself, “Oh, I love that fence!” or, “That house could use more landscaping,” or even, “Why on Earth would they pick that color?!” Us, too. You might not have realized it before, but these features of a house have actually been coined as a phrase: curb appeal. Here are some ideas on how to add curb appeal to your home (within a budget).

how to add curb appeal to home

What is “Curb Appeal?”

Curb appeal is the initial impression or the description of the feeling you get as you glance at a house, take in its appearance, and maybe even imagine what it might be like to live there and what you would do differently, if it were your own. With curb appeal, the options are endless and fun to imagine as you cruise past the neighbors and take it all in.

If you’re a homeowner on the market, understanding why it’s something that should be on your radar has never been more important.

What Are Some Ways to Add Curb Appeal to My Home? 30+ Ideas!

Adding curb appeal to your home can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want it to be.

Here are a few of the improvements you can make to your home, all depending on how far you wish to take your renovations:

  1. Trim the hedges. No one likes an overgrown bush!
  2. Have a seating area. Patio empty? Throw a pretty Adirondack chair out front!
  3. Add new house numbers.
  4. Re-paint your house number on your curb.
  5. Trim your trees. Especially if you’re in a coastal area – those palms need tending!
  6. Add flower boxes under your windows.
  7. Paint your front door.
  8. Stain your fence a new color.
  9. Add lights to your walkway or driveway.
  10. Create symmetry in your plant and furniture décor.
  11. Add a container garden for more variety.
  12. Add shutters.
  13. Clean out or replace gutters.
  14. Check and fix up rust spots.
  15. Add a sculpture to your yard.
  16. Add potted plants or cacti.
  17. Add a bird bath.
  18. Power wash your driveway and sidewalks.
  19. De-weed your lawn and walkway.
  20. Upgrade or replace railings that have deteriorated.
  21. Add outdoor light fixtures, such as lamps.
  22. Hide you’re a/c unit with a fence.
  23. Add a seasonal wreath to your door.
  24. Add a bench to your patio with cute cushions.
  25. Put a catchy welcome mat at your door.
  26. Hang artwork or a sign with a welcoming quote.
  27. Put up your garbage bins – in garage or behind a fence is ideal!
  28. Paint door trim.
  29. Refresh window panes.
  30. Hang a bird feeder from your tree or place one in your lawn!
  31. Plant flowers along your walkway.
  32. Install a new door knocker that adds flare.
  33. Tile your doorstep.
  34. Upgrade the mailbox – there are tons of fun options out there!
  35. Have your roof professionally cleaned.

boost curb appeal

How to Improve On Your Home

First step: Take a walk around your house with fresh eyes. Try to look at your home as a neighbor or passing stranger might. What is outdated? What needs to be mended? Are there any major projects you’ve been putting off that would help your house reach its full potential for potential buyers?

Second: take into account what your budget is for these kinds of fixes. Some are as cheap as simple yard work, while others can cost hundreds. It’s up to you how much effort you’re willing to put in, but there are plenty of crafty approaches to managing your curb appeal without breaking the bank.

Third: make a plan of attack and get to work. Decide what you can and can’t live without doing and create a plan for obtaining materials, deciding days of dedicated labor time and watch as your masterpiece unfolds.

Our Favorite Home Improvements

With all of this being said, there are a few options from the list above that we highly recommend, all with one common denominator: paint.

Paint is the most aesthetically pleasing and effective way to dress up your home's appearance – inside and out – and achieve results that provide prospective buyers and neighbors alike with the wow-factor you want!

If nothing else, we strongly suggest recruiting professional help for all your painting needs.

home improvement ideas

What Color Should I Paint My House?

Deciding what color you want to paint your house, window, trim, or any other feature of your home is almost as important as deciding to paint itself. Choosing an unappealing or distracting color could be worse than not painting at all.

Below are a few recommended tones and palette trending that you can use to freshen up the exterior of your house:

Whatever tone you end up going with, we strongly recommend hiring a trained professional that has experience rather than attempting to re-paint without any prior experience.

Painting Is the Ultimate ROI When Renovating Your House

Painting your home will always add curb appeal and more value. It may be an initial investment with a pricey cost up front, but the return is worth the initial spend. On average, repainting nets a 152% return on investment.

Even if you don’t want to paint the exterior of your home, picking a weekend to repaint even one room of your house holds high ROI for your listing. Repainting interior walls increases home value by an average of 5% and nets an ROI of 107%.

Painting is always a good idea if you notice any of these signs before listing:

Curb appeal is the instant upgrade to your home’s first impression that could be the problem solver to a long and tedious journey in selling your home.

Exterior paint jobs are a big task, so you want to make sure they last as long as they can. A home improvement project of this scale requires careful thought, specific preparation, and proper maintenance to ensure its longevity.

home exterior paint

Here are some factors that affect the lifespan of your exterior paint:

Home Materials

There is a range in which exterior paint lasts and this is because not all homes are made with the same material. Here are some common exterior materials:

Wood

Homes with a wood exterior will often see a paint job that lasts five to seven years. Wood naturally ages which can cause the painted surface to fade or crack. Wood sidings will often require frequent paint jobs because of their vulnerability to moisture and the elements.

Brick

A well-done paint job on brick homes can last 15-20 years when maintained properly and in optimal conditions. Refreshing your brick exterior with a fresh coat of paint can provide additional protection from the elements by acting as a sealant, protecting your home from precipitation and other harsh weather conditions. Additionally, painted brick is easy to keep clean, all you need is an occasional power wash.

Vinyl

If done properly, homes with vinyl sidings can see paint last up to ten years. Vinyl siding is considered one of the lower-maintenance options and doesn’t require regular repainting. However, if you spot any signs of mold, mildew, debris, or other buildups, make sure it is properly removed and allow the surface to dry completely before applying paint.

Stucco

Paint lasts an average of seven to ten years with a stucco exterior because it is made of a combination of cement, sand, and limestone. A fresh coat of paint on a stucco interior can protect your home from moisture and prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

Paint Prep

Properly preparing your home for an exterior paint job can increase the lifespan and durability of your paint. Failing to prep can result in bubbling, cracking, or making the color less vibrant. Prepping your home for an exterior paint job can include pressure washing to remove lifted paint and caulking or sealing any cracks and gaps, or holes. You want to make sure paint is going on a smooth and clean surface and that all imperfections are repaired and treated.

Choose the right paint and primer

Choosing the right paint is crucial when preparing for a paint job. The wrong paint can end in poor results and require significant time and money to fix. Acrylic-latex paint is often recommended for exterior application because of its versatility and is less likely to blister. However, if you live in areas with a wet climate, it’s recommended to use oil-based paint to repel and resist wear and abrasion.

Additionally, raw unpainted surfaces require the right primer. The purpose of primer is to provide a base coat for the layer of exterior paint to adhere. The type of primer you use will depend on which top coat you use, so it’s best to consult a professional on what is the right paint and primer for your home’s exterior material.

When choosing paint, homeowners must decide on a color. Not many know that the color of your exterior paint can also affect its lifespan. Cooler colors lead to less heat insulation while darker colors retain more heat and can lead to premature breakage.

exterior paint on wood

Extreme Weather and Exterior Paint

Climate plays a significant role in how long your exterior paint will last. In Colorado, we see hot summers and cold summers and experience large temperature differences throughout the day. So, an exterior painting project can be tricky.

If your home is often exposed to direct sunlight, the paint will show faster signs of deterioration such as fading and cracking. On the other hand, if you live in colder climates or areas with high humidity and frequent storms, the elements can cause your exterior paint to wear much quicker.

Maintaining Your Paint Job

Proper maintenance is another factor in prolonging the lifespan of your exterior paint job. Maintaining your exterior house paint will not only bring new life into your paint job, but it will keep your home looking fresh year after year, regardless of when your last paint job was.

Washing

Most materials require some level of washing. Washing your home will remove surface debris, bird droppings, mildew, mold, and other types of dirt. Cleaning your home’s surface will ensure your paint lasts longer.

Washing can be done with a mild solution of soap and water. You can use a soft-bristled scrub brush or sponge and once it’s clean, rinse with a hose. You can also opt for pressure washing, which does a great job of removing surface dirt. However, it can be tricky to get the balance of pressure and distance just right, and too much pressure can damage your surface. If choosing to pressure wash, it might be beneficial to hire a professional.

Touch-ups

It might be beneficial to perform touch-up painting on your exterior every couple of years. Some areas of your home will be more exposed to the elements than others, which means paint in these areas will deteriorate much faster. Putting in a few hours of touch-up painting every two or three years will significantly increase the longevity of your paint job.

how long does exterior painting last

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting

Painting the outside of your home is a big job that needs specific skill and precision to execute, which is why we recommend using a contractor with quality products such as Colorado Painting. With over 39 years of trusted experience, we are the Denver area’s premier painting contractors, and we assure you that we’ll get the job done right.

Give us a call today or visit our website for a free quote. We guarantee to work until you are satisfied.

crosschevron-down