Great Exteriors Start With Great Painting Tips
Ready Your Home This Spring With Color

By Debbie Zimmer
The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute

As Spring approaches, you might be considering new ways to freshen and enliven your home's exterior appearance. Are your exterior colors the same as when you moved in? In so, try incorporating a new color combination. In addition to improving the overall appearance with a splash of color, your deck, doors, and siding will be better protected with a new coat of paint.

Try the combinations suggested and let us know if your home now says, “Welcome, Spring.”


Inspirational Trends
Whether your home is a traditional colonial, a classic cottage or contemporary ranch style, a brightly painted front door will welcome both family and friends. This year, why not go from drab to dramatic, simply by sprucing up your entrance way. Try the newest paint colors in cherry red, bright yellow or spectacular black to highlight and define the front door. And, while painting, don’t forget the window shutters. Shutters can be painted the same hue as your door or can be an exciting complementary color. Set against a neutral palette home, a splash of color on your doors and shutters will certainly make a statement. Here are a few favorite and fresh combinations:

And, don’t stop at the front door! Additional areas around your home that can benefit from easy color infusion include:

- Decks and porches
- Garage doors and trim
- Mailboxes, light posts and railings
- Swing sets and tool sheds
- Patio and wood outdoor furniture


Instructional Ideas
No matter where you might paint this Spring, remember to follow these simple but important steps:

 
1.
Prepare and clean the surface prior to painting

2. Purchase a top quality 100% acrylic latex exterior paint

3.
Use quality paint brushes and rollers

4. Always paint in the appropriate weather conditions

 




For more information on paint and paint trends, visit
The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute at www.paintquality.com
- where a great paint job begins!