Most Popular Benjamin Moore Exterior White Paint Colors

Choosing the right exterior paint color is a significant decision for any homeowner. The color impacts curb appeal, home value, and even the overall feeling of the living space. White remains a consistently popular choice for exteriors due to its versatility, timelessness, and ability to reflect sunlight, potentially contributing to energy efficiency. Benjamin Moore offers a wide array of white paint colors, each with subtle variations in undertones that can dramatically affect the final appearance of the home. Understanding these nuances is crucial for selecting the perfect white for a specific architectural style, landscaping, and personal preferences. This article explores some of the most popular Benjamin Moore exterior white paint colors, examining their characteristics, best uses, and how to choose the right one for a given project.

Understanding Undertones in White Paint

White paint is not merely a single, monolithic color. It exists on a spectrum influenced by the addition of pigments that create subtle undertones. These undertones are not always immediately apparent, but they become noticeable when the paint is applied to a large surface and viewed in different lighting conditions. The primary undertones to consider are warm (yellow, red, or pink), cool (blue, green, or gray), and neutral. Warm whites create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool whites appear crisp and clean. Neutral whites aim for a balanced effect, minimizing any distinct undertone. Identifying the undertones in a white paint is essential because they can clash with existing architectural elements, landscaping, or neighboring homes, creating an undesirable aesthetic. For instance, a white with a strong yellow undertone might clash with a gray roof or cool-toned stone accents.

To accurately assess the undertones of a white paint, it is recommended to obtain paint samples and apply them to a large board. Observe the samples in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight, shade, and artificial light. Comparing the samples to pure white (such as a white printer paper) can help reveal the subtle undertones. It is also beneficial to consider the surrounding environment. Greenery from trees and shrubs can reflect onto the paint, influencing its perceived color. Similarly, the color of the roof and any brick or stone accents should be taken into account when selecting the appropriate white paint.

Popular Benjamin Moore White Paint Colors for Exteriors

Benjamin Moore offers a diverse selection of white paint colors suitable for exterior applications. Several consistently rank among the most popular choices due to their versatility and timeless appeal. These whites range from bright and crisp to soft and creamy, providing options for various architectural styles and personal preferences. Understanding the specific characteristics of each color is key to making an informed decision.

White Dove OC-17: White Dove is a warm, off-white with a subtle creamy undertone. It is a highly versatile choice that works well with various architectural styles, including traditional, colonial, and farmhouse. Its warmth creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. White Dove is particularly effective when paired with natural materials such as wood and stone. It complements warm-toned landscaping and can soften the appearance of stark modern architecture. While generally a safe and reliable choice, White Dove can appear slightly yellow in certain lighting conditions, particularly in areas with strong direct sunlight. Therefore, it’s crucial to test it in the specific location before committing to the entire project.

Simply White OC-117: As the name suggests, Simply White is a clean and straightforward white with minimal undertones. It is considered a neutral white, making it a versatile option for various architectural styles. Simply White tends to reflect the surrounding colors, meaning it can appear slightly warmer or cooler depending on the environment. It works well with both warm and cool accent colors, offering flexibility in design choices. Simply White is a popular choice for modern homes and can create a bright and airy feel. However, its lack of strong undertones can also make it appear stark in certain lighting conditions. Careful consideration should be given to the surrounding environment to ensure it complements the overall aesthetic.

Cloud White OC-130: Cloud White is a soft, warm white with a delicate, almost ethereal quality. It has a slight creamy undertone that creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere. Cloud White is a popular choice for traditional homes and can add a touch of elegance to any exterior. It works well with natural materials like brick and stone, and it complements warm-toned landscaping. Cloud White can be particularly effective in softening the appearance of older homes and adding a sense of history and charm. However, its warmth may not be suitable for all architectural styles. In modern homes, it can appear overly traditional. Therefore, it's important to carefully consider the architectural style and surrounding environment before choosing Cloud White.

Decorator's White OC-70: Decorator's White is a cool, crisp white with a slight gray undertone. It is a sophisticated choice that works well with modern and contemporary homes. Its cool undertones create a clean and minimalist look. Decorator's White is often used in combination with other cool colors, such as grays and blues. It is a good choice for homes with cool-toned landscaping and architectural features. However, its cool undertones can make it appear stark in certain lighting conditions. It is important to test Decorator's White in the specific location to ensure it complements the overall aesthetic. It might not be the best choice for homes needing a warmer, more inviting feel.

Swiss Coffee OC-45: Swiss Coffee is a warm, creamy off-white with a yellow undertone. It stands out due to its high LRV (Light Reflectance Value), making it a good option for reflecting sunlight and potentially reducing energy costs. It's a popular choice for creating a cozy and inviting exterior, especially in shaded areas. Swiss Coffee is well-suited for traditional and farmhouse styles, complementing natural wood and warm-toned accents. However, its yellow undertone can be pronounced in certain lighting conditions, potentially clashing with cooler-toned elements. It's essential to consider the fixed elements of the home, such as roofing and stonework, to ensure the yellow undertone complements rather than clashes.

Balboa Mist OC-27: While technically a light gray, Balboa Mist often reads as an off-white, particularly on exteriors. It features warm gray undertones, making it a sophisticated and versatile choice. Balboa Mist works well with a variety of architectural styles, from modern to traditional, and complements both warm and cool accents. It's an excellent option for those seeking a white that's not too stark or clinical, providing a subtle depth and dimension. It pairs well with natural landscaping and can create a harmonious transition between the home and its surroundings. However, in overcast or shaded conditions, Balboa Mist may appear more definitively gray, so it's important to assess its appearance in different lighting.

Key Considerations for Choosing an Exterior White Paint Color

Selecting the right exterior white paint color involves more than simply choosing a preferred shade. Several factors must be considered to ensure the final result is aesthetically pleasing and complements the overall property. These considerations include architectural style, surrounding environment, and personal preferences.

Architectural Style: The architectural style of the home plays a significant role in determining the appropriate white paint color. Traditional homes often benefit from warmer whites like White Dove or Cloud White, which enhance their classic charm. Modern homes, on the other hand, often look best with cooler, cleaner whites like Simply White or Decorator's White, which emphasize their minimalist aesthetic. Farmhouse-style homes can also make use of off-whites like Swiss Coffee or White Dove to maintain the rustic charm while adding a clean and updated look. The architectural details of the home, such as siding material, trim, and window styles, should also be considered when selecting a white paint color.

Surrounding Environment: The surrounding environment, including landscaping, neighboring homes, and natural light, can significantly influence the perceived color of the paint. Homes surrounded by lush greenery may benefit from cooler whites, which will balance the warm tones of the landscaping. Homes in sunny locations may be able to handle brighter, more reflective whites, while homes in shaded areas may need warmer whites to brighten the space. The colors of neighboring homes should also be considered to ensure a cohesive and harmonious streetscape. Avoiding a stark color contrast with adjacent houses is often preferable. Additionally, the color of the roof, brick, or stone accents should be closely matched or complemented by the selected white paint.

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): Light Reflectance Value (LRV) indicates how much light a paint color reflects. LRV is measured on a scale of 0 to 100, with 0 being black and 100 being pure white. For exteriors, a higher LRV can help reflect sunlight and keep the home cooler, especially in warmer climates. However, a very high LRV can also create glare, so it's important to balance the desired effect with the potential for discomfort. Consider the orientation of the home and the amount of direct sunlight it receives when choosing an LRV. Lighter, more reflective whites are generally suitable for homes in shady locations or for those seeking to reduce energy costs, while slightly lower LRVs may be preferable for homes in sunny areas to avoid excessive glare.

Durability and Finish: Beyond color, the durability and finish of the exterior paint are also crucial considerations. Benjamin Moore offers a range of exterior paints specifically formulated to withstand the elements, including sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Choosing a high-quality paint is essential for ensuring long-lasting protection and a beautiful finish. The finish of the paint, such as flat, satin, or semi-gloss, can also impact the appearance of the home. Flat finishes are less reflective and can help hide imperfections, while semi-gloss finishes are more durable and easier to clean. The appropriate finish will depend on the specific needs of the home and the desired aesthetic.

Ultimately, selecting the perfect Benjamin Moore exterior white paint color requires careful consideration of various factors. By understanding undertones, evaluating architectural style and surroundings, and testing paint samples in different lighting conditions, homeowners can make an informed decision that enhances the beauty and value of their homes.