Red Brick Home Paint Colors

Selecting Complementary Paint Colors for Red Brick Homes

Red brick homes possess a timeless appeal, exuding warmth, character, and durability. However, choosing the right paint colors to complement the brick can be a challenging task. Color selection significantly impacts the overall aesthetic, affecting curb appeal and potentially influencing property value. This article provides guidance on navigating the complexities of color selection for red brick exteriors, focusing on key considerations and strategies for achieving a harmonious and visually pleasing result.

Understanding the Nuances of Red Brick

Red brick is not a monolithic color; it presents variations in shade, texture, and tone. It is crucial to carefully observe the specific characteristics of the brick on the home. Some brick may lean towards a warmer, orange-red, while others possess a cooler, deeper red with hints of brown or purple. The presence of mortar also influences the overall color palette. Mortar can range from light gray to off-white to darker shades, and its color will interact with the chosen paint colors. Examining the brick under different lighting conditions – morning, noon, and evening – will reveal subtle color variations that might be overlooked under artificial or uniform lighting.

Taking several high-resolution photographs of the brick in various light settings is a helpful strategy. These photographs can then be used when browsing paint swatches, aiding in visualizing how different colors will interact with the brick. Digital color matching tools, available through paint manufacturers, can also be used to analyze the dominant and secondary colors present in the brick, providing a more scientific approach to color selection. Furthermore, consider the style of the home. A traditional colonial-style house will likely benefit from different color choices than a modern ranch or a craftsman bungalow.

Before even considering specific colors, the homeowner should assess the extent of the painting project. Does it involve only trim and doors, or will the siding need painting as well? The scope of the project will dictate the number of colors needed and the relative importance of each. For example, if only the trim is being painted, the color selection process will primarily focus on finding a trim color that complements the existing brick and roof. However, a larger project involving siding may require more complex color coordination.

Exploring Complementary Color Palettes

The color wheel serves as a foundational tool for understanding color relationships. Complementary colors, located directly opposite each other on the wheel, create visual contrast and vibrancy. For red brick, complementary colors include shades of green. However, using a pure, bright green can be overwhelming. Instead, consider muted or earthy greens, such as sage, olive, or forest green. These softer greens provide a complementary contrast without being jarring.

Analogous colors, located next to each other on the color wheel, create a more harmonious and subtle effect. For red brick, analogous colors include shades of orange, yellow, and brown. These colors share similar undertones with the brick, resulting in a cohesive and warm color scheme. Creamy yellows and warm browns can work well for trim, while deeper oranges might be suitable for accent features like doors. However, it is important to avoid selecting analogous colors that are too similar to the brick, as this can result in a monotonous and uninspired look. Varying the shades and tones within the analogous palette is key to creating visual interest.

Neutral colors offer a versatile and timeless option for complementing red brick. White, gray, beige, and black can all work well, depending on the specific shade of brick and the desired aesthetic. White trim can create a crisp and clean contrast against the red brick, while gray trim provides a more modern and understated look. Beige and cream tones offer a warmer and more traditional feel. Black can be used sparingly for accent features, such as shutters or doors, to create a dramatic and sophisticated effect.

When selecting neutral colors, pay close attention to their undertones. White, for instance, can have warm or cool undertones. A warm white with creamy or yellow undertones will generally complement warmer red brick, while a cool white with blue or gray undertones will pair better with cooler red brick. Gray also comes in various shades and undertones, ranging from warm grays with brown undertones to cool grays with blue undertones. Choosing the right undertone is crucial for achieving a harmonious and balanced color scheme.

Practical Considerations and Testing

Beyond theoretical color palettes, practical considerations play a crucial role in the paint selection process. The surrounding environment, including landscaping and neighboring homes, should be taken into account. A home surrounded by lush greenery might benefit from warmer paint colors that complement the natural surroundings, while a home in a more urban setting might lend itself to cooler and more contemporary color schemes.

The roof color is another significant factor. The roof represents a large visual plane and its color significantly influences the overall aesthetic. A dark gray or black roof typically pairs well with a wider range of paint colors, while a brown or red roof might limit the options. It is essential to choose paint colors that coordinate with the roof color to create a cohesive and unified look. Consider the material of the roof as well. Asphalt shingles will appear different from slate or tile, affecting how light reflects and interacts with the paint colors.

Before committing to a specific paint color, it is essential to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the home. Paint a few sample boards with different colors and observe them under various lighting conditions. This allows for a more accurate assessment of how the colors will look on the brick and how they interact with the surrounding environment. Consider painting sample boards for the trim, doors, and siding (if applicable) to see how all the colors work together as a cohesive unit. The color of the brick can also impact the overall appearance of the paint so testing different locations on the brick is also useful.

Testing paint colors is particularly important because colors can appear different on a small paint chip compared to a large surface. The surrounding colors and lighting conditions can significantly influence how a color is perceived. It is also important to remember that paint colors can fade over time due to exposure to sunlight and weather. Choosing a high-quality paint with UV protection can help to minimize fading and maintain the color's vibrancy over the long term. Requesting larger samples from the paint store may also be helpful in visualizing the whole-home effect, though the cost difference may add up quickly.

Ultimately, selecting the right paint colors for a red brick home is a process that requires careful consideration of numerous factors. By understanding the nuances of the brick, exploring complementary color palettes, and conducting thorough testing, homeowners can achieve a visually appealing and harmonious result that enhances the curb appeal and overall value of their property. Consultation with a professional color consultant or designer can also provide valuable guidance and ensure a successful outcome. Before choosing a paint company, research their reputation and past performance, including verifying the existence of proper licensing and insurance.