When it’s time to upgrade your home’s siding, you have many options to choose from, all with limitless color shades. While you probably know that the type of siding you choose can affect the cost, resale value, and energy efficiency of your home, did you know that the shade of your home’s exterior can do the same? The shade you choose will have a big visual impact on potential buyers, and you should consider more than just your personal preferences when upgrading your home’s exterior.
Are You Limited By HOA Requirements?
If you live in an HOA, you are probably limited in the shades you can choose for your home. The purpose of these restrictions is to protect property values in the community with consistent home maintenance and appearance. This means you likely need HOA board approval if you want to step outside of pre-approved color shades for your home.
Every HOA sets its own rules. Some limit your choices to around seven neutral shades, while others offer even fewer choices. If a nearby house has a similar palette to the one you want, you may need to pick another shade altogether. Some HOAs even specify options for your garage door, siding, trim, and the color of unique features.
If you make the mistake of choosing a shade that isn’t pre-approved by your HOA and you do not get board approval, you can face hefty fines. You can even be ordered to change your color choice to bring it into compliance.
Consider Your Neighborhood’s Palette
To determine the right shade for your home, consider popular shades in your neighborhood. While standing out isn’t always a bad thing, it’s usually best to stay within the same range as the neighbors to improve curb appeal. Favorite home exterior shades vary a great deal by geographical area, but the following tend to be the most popular:
- Beige. This earthy tone is perfect for matching your landscaping, and it looks especially great when paired with brick and stone.
- Gray. This neutral option comes in a range of shades from light to dark. Gray makes the trim on your home pop, and it goes well with almost any other color.
- Reds and browns. These warm colors are especially prevalent in rural areas, lake communities, and cottages, but they can work on other styles of homes as well.
- Blue. A home with gray and black accents works well with blue siding, while white trim and a natural blue can create a classic combination.
Home Color and Resale Value
The shade you choose for your siding plays a significant role when it comes to your home’s value. If you stray too far from the norm in your area, you can limit the number of potential buyers when you’re ready to sell. Buyers who eventually make an offer may even ask for a price reduction to repaint the home or to replace the siding.
This doesn’t mean you must stick with neutral colors. Instead, strive for a palette of complementary shades that don’t fight for attention or detract from your surroundings. Remember the importance of curb appeal when it comes to selling your home. The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. If it isn’t inviting, they may not even step through the front door.
According to a Zillow analysis of more than 32,000 sold residential homes, homes with an exterior of gray/brown (or “greige”) sell for about $1,500 more on average. While brown homes, which include stucco and taupe, sell for $1,970 less on average.
The Shade of Your Home Affects Energy Efficiency
Just as wearing a black t-shirt on a hot day will make you feel warmer than wearing a white t-shirt, so too can the shade of your home impact how hot or cool your home feels inside. Lighter shades on the exterior of your home will reflect more sunlight than darker shades. This matters when you’re choosing a color for your siding as well as your roof.
Light shades on your home don’t just lower your energy bill; they also resist UV fading over time. This means your home will look clean and bright for longer before your cladding needs to be painted.
Replacing worn-out siding should be at the top of your list. If your siding is cracking, breaking off, warped, or you have repainted it repeatedly, it’s time to consider new options for your home. Replacing your cladding may be a large project, but it’s an investment in your home. Not only can the right choice increase your home’s value, but it can also reduce your heating and cooling bills. Just make sure to consider the right shade for your home for the biggest impact.
If you have any questions or need recommendations for choosing the right shade, DryHome is here to help. Give us a call to learn more about your options to make your home the envy of the neighborhood.
