Brick House Paint Colors

Brick House Paint Colors: Choosing the Perfect Palette

Choosing the right paint color for a brick house can significantly enhance its curb appeal and overall aesthetic. The variety of brick colors and textures presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Careful consideration of the brick's undertones, architectural style, and surrounding landscape is crucial for selecting a harmonious and visually appealing color scheme.

Understanding Brick Undertones

Brick isn't simply red or brown. It comes in a spectrum of shades with underlying hues that influence paint color choices. Identifying the undertones in the brick is the first step in selecting a complementary paint palette.

1. **Red Brick:** Often features orange, pink, or yellow undertones. 2. **Brown Brick:** Can have red, purple, or gray undertones. 3. **Yellow Brick:** May exhibit hints of orange, brown, or cream. 4. **Gray Brick:** Can possess blue, green, or purple undertones.

Holding a paint swatch against the brick can help reveal its true undertones, making it easier to choose coordinating colors.

Classic Color Combinations for Brick Houses

Certain color combinations have stood the test of time and consistently create a balanced and appealing look for brick homes. These pairings often leverage the natural undertones of the brick to create a harmonious aesthetic.

1. **White with Black Accents:** A crisp white exterior provides a striking contrast against the texture of brick, while black accents on shutters, doors, and trim add definition and sophistication. 2. **Creamy Neutrals:** Warm creams and beiges complement the earthy tones often found in brick, creating a welcoming and inviting feel. 3. **Sage Green:** This calming hue pairs beautifully with red and brown brick, particularly those with warm undertones. 4. **Navy Blue:** A classic choice that offers a timeless and elegant look, especially with red or orange-toned brick.

Considering Architectural Style

The architectural style of the house plays a significant role in paint color selection. Different styles lend themselves to different color palettes, enhancing the home's character and architectural details.

1. **Colonial:** Classic whites, creams, and historically accurate colors like deep reds and blues are often suitable choices. 2. **Ranch:** Earthy tones, warm grays, and muted greens can enhance the simplicity and functionality of ranch-style homes. 3. **Tudor:** Darker, richer colors like deep greens, browns, and even black can highlight the intricate details and woodwork often found in Tudor architecture. 4. **Craftsman:** Warm, earthy tones like greens, browns, and yellows complement the natural materials and handcrafted aesthetic of Craftsman-style homes.

Utilizing the Surrounding Landscape

The surrounding environment, including landscaping and neighboring homes, should also be considered when choosing paint colors. Harmonizing the house color with the landscape creates a cohesive and visually appealing overall picture.

1. **Green Surroundings:** Complement lush greenery with earthy tones, such as warm grays, browns, or deep greens. 2. **Coastal Landscapes:** Light blues, grays, and whites can evoke a breezy, coastal feel. 3. **Desert Environments:** Warm terracotta, beige, and sand colors blend seamlessly with desert landscapes.

Choosing Trim and Accent Colors

Trim and accent colors are crucial for adding depth and visual interest to a brick house. These details can highlight architectural features and create a polished, cohesive look.

1. **Contrasting Trim:** A contrasting trim color, such as white against dark brick or black against light brick, creates a crisp and defined look. 2. **Complementary Accents:** Using a color from the same color family as the main paint color, but in a slightly different shade, can create a subtle yet sophisticated look. 3. **Bold Accent Colors:** For a more dramatic effect, consider using a bolder accent color on the front door or shutters, such as a vibrant red, blue, or green.

Testing Paint Colors

Before committing to a full paint job, it's essential to test the chosen colors on the actual brick surface. Paint samples can appear differently on a small chip than they do on a large area, and the brick's texture can also influence the final color appearance.

1. **Large Swatches:** Paint large swatches (at least 2 feet by 2 feet) in several different locations on the house to observe how the color looks in different lighting conditions throughout the day. 2. **Different Angles:** View the swatches from various angles and distances to get a comprehensive understanding of how the color will appear on the entire house. 3. **Weather Conditions:** Observe the swatches in different weather conditions, such as sunny days and overcast days, to see how the color changes in varying light.

Maintaining Your Brick and Paint

Regular maintenance is crucial for preserving the beauty and longevity of both the brick and paint. Proper cleaning and occasional touch-ups can help keep the exterior looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.

1. **Cleaning Brick:** Clean the brick surface periodically with a mild detergent and water solution to remove dirt, grime, and mildew. 2. **Inspecting Paint:** Regularly inspect the painted surfaces for any signs of chipping, peeling, or fading, and address these issues promptly to prevent further damage. 3. **Touch-up Paint:** Keep some leftover paint on hand for touch-ups and minor repairs, ensuring a consistent and well-maintained appearance.