Best Grey Exterior Paint Colors Sherwin Williams

Best Grey Exterior Paint Colors: Sherwin-Williams

Grey has become a dominant color choice for exterior house paint in recent years. Its versatility allows homeowners to create a modern, classic, or even rustic aesthetic, depending on the specific shade and accompanying trim colors. Sherwin-Williams, a leading paint manufacturer, offers an extensive range of grey paint colors, each with its own unique undertones and characteristics. Selecting the right grey for a home's exterior requires careful consideration of factors such as the home's architectural style, the surrounding landscape, and the amount of natural light the house receives.

This article explores some of the best grey exterior paint colors offered by Sherwin-Williams, providing information on their undertones, ideal applications, and potential pairings. Understanding these nuances will help homeowners make informed decisions when choosing the perfect grey to enhance their home's curb appeal.

Considering Undertones in Grey Paint

A crucial aspect of selecting a grey paint color is understanding its undertones. Grey is not simply a neutral blend of black and white; it often contains subtle hints of other colors that can significantly influence its appearance. Common undertones in grey paint include blue, green, purple, and beige. These undertones become more apparent under different lighting conditions and when paired with other colors. Ignoring undertones can result in the paint appearing different than expected once applied to the entire exterior of a house.

For example, a grey with blue undertones might appear cooler and more contemporary, while a grey with beige undertones could feel warmer and more traditional. A grey with green undertones can blend seamlessly with natural surroundings, while one with purple undertones may add a touch of sophistication. To accurately assess a grey's undertones, it is recommended to obtain paint samples and apply them to various areas of the exterior, observing how they look at different times of the day.

The direction a house faces also plays a role. North-facing homes typically receive less direct sunlight, which can make cool undertones appear even more pronounced. South-facing homes, on the other hand, receive warmer sunlight, which can accentuate warmer undertones. East- and west-facing homes experience a mix of both warm and cool light throughout the day.

Top Sherwin-Williams Grey Exterior Paint Colors

Here are several popular and highly-regarded grey exterior paint colors from Sherwin-Williams, along with details on their undertones and ideal applications:

1. Repose Gray (SW 7015): Repose Gray is one of Sherwin-Williams' most popular grey colors, known for its versatility and neutrality. It typically reads as a light, warm grey with subtle beige undertones. This makes it a safe and reliable choice for a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to modern farmhouse. Repose Gray works well with white trim for a clean, classic look, or with darker greys and blues for a more contemporary feel. It complements natural stone and brick accents well.

2. Agreeable Gray (SW 7029): Similar to Repose Gray, Agreeable Gray is also a warm grey with beige undertones. However, it is slightly darker and richer than Repose Gray, providing a bit more depth and character. Agreeable Gray is a fantastic choice for homes situated in areas with abundant sunlight, as its warmth will be enhanced by the natural light. It pairs beautifully with natural wood elements, such as stained doors and shutters. Like Repose Gray, it is a versatile option for many architectural styles.

3. Gauntlet Gray (SW 7019): Gauntlet Gray is a mid-tone grey with subtle cool undertones, leaning towards a slightly stony appearance. It is a more dramatic choice than Repose Gray or Agreeable Gray, offering a bolder look for homes seeking a more modern or sophisticated aesthetic. Gauntlet Gray works well as a primary exterior color or as an accent color for shutters and doors. It pairs well with crisp white trim or with other cool-toned greys and blues. Because of its depth, it is often used to add visual interest to homes with simple architectural details.

4. Dovetail (SW 7018): Dovetail is a darker, more saturated grey with warm, brown undertones. It is a sophisticated and grounding color that adds depth and richness to a home's exterior. Dovetail is a good choice for homes with traditional or craftsman-style architecture. It complements natural stone, brick, and warm wood elements. Dovetail can be paired with creamy white trim for a classic look or with more vibrant accent colors for a bolder statement.

5. Mindful Gray (SW 7016): Mindful Gray is a mid-tone grey that sits between Repose Gray and Gauntlet Gray in terms of depth. It has subtle, balanced undertones that make it a versatile choice for a variety of architectural styles. Mindful Gray is a good option for homeowners who want a neutral grey that is not too warm or too cool. It pairs well with both white and darker trim colors and complements a variety of landscaping elements.

6. Anonymous (SW 7046): Anonymous is a complex, muted green-grey that creates a calming and natural feel. This color is often favored for homes nestled within lush landscapes. Anonymous works well with natural wood accents and complements stone or brick with earthy tones. It is less common than other greys on this list but offers a unique and sophisticated aesthetic.

7. Gray Matters (SW 7066): Gray Matters is considered a cool grey with blue undertones. It leans towards a more modern and contemporary feel than some of the warmer greys. It can work exceptionally well in sunny climates where the cooler undertones are tempered by the natural light. Pair with bright white trim for a crisp look, or darker blues for a sophisticated aesthetic.

8. Grizzle Gray (SW 7068): Grizzle Gray is a deep, dramatic grey, bordering on charcoal. It makes quite a statement on an exterior and is best suited for modern or contemporary homes. This color works well as an accent, highlighting architectural details or as a primary color for a bold, modern look. It pairs well with lighter greys, white, or even pops of bright color for contrast.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Grey Paint

Beyond undertones, several other factors should be considered when selecting a grey exterior paint color:

1. Architectural Style: The architectural style of a home plays a significant role in determining the best grey paint color. For example, a traditional colonial-style home might look best in a light, warm grey like Repose Gray, while a modern contemporary home could benefit from a bolder, cooler grey like Grizzle Gray. Craftsman-style homes often look beautiful in mid-tone to dark greys with warm or green undertones. Consider the existing architectural details of the home, such as trim, siding, and roofing materials, when making a selection.

2. Surrounding Environment: The surrounding landscape and neighborhood should also be taken into account. A home situated in a heavily wooded area might look best in a grey with green or brown undertones, which will blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. A home in a more urban setting might benefit from a cooler grey that complements the surrounding concrete and steel structures. Consider the color of neighboring homes to ensure that the chosen grey complements the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood.

3. Lighting Conditions: Natural light plays a crucial role in how a paint color appears. As previously mentioned, the direction a house faces affects the amount and type of light it receives. Artificial lighting also affects the appearance of paint colors, especially at night. Before committing to a color, it is essential to observe how it looks in different lighting conditions throughout the day and in the evening.

4. Trim and Accent Colors: The trim and accent colors chosen to complement the grey exterior paint can significantly impact the overall look. White trim is a classic and versatile choice that works well with most grey colors. However, darker greys, blues, or even blacks can also be used to create a more dramatic and contemporary look. Consider the roofing material and any existing architectural features when selecting trim and accent colors.

5. HOA Restrictions: Homeowners living in communities governed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs) should be aware of any restrictions on exterior paint colors. Many HOAs have pre-approved color palettes that limit the homeowner's choices. Before making any decisions, it is essential to review the HOA guidelines and obtain approval for the chosen paint color.

6. Sheen Level: The sheen level of exterior paint also impacts its appearance and durability. Common sheen levels for exterior paint include flat, satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss. Flat sheen is the least reflective and provides a matte finish, which is ideal for hiding imperfections. Satin and eggshell sheens offer a slightly more reflective finish and are more durable and easier to clean than flat sheen. Semi-gloss sheen is the most reflective and durable, making it a good choice for trim and doors.

Ultimately, the best grey exterior paint color for a home is a matter of personal preference and depends on a variety of factors. By carefully considering the undertones of the paint, the architectural style of the home, the surrounding environment, the lighting conditions, and the trim and accent colors, homeowners can select the perfect grey to enhance their home's curb appeal and create a lasting impression.