Blog Layout

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint Colors for Your Home

January 11, 2018

paint my house Are you embarking on painting your new home?

Or maybe you’ve just grown tired of the existing colors on your walls and are thinking it’s time to switch things up.

You could even be getting rid of wallpaper !

Whatever the case, painting any room of your house requires time, patience and preparation.

And, of course, you’ll have to make one really big decision:

What Color Do I Paint My House?

If you’ve never painted before, it’s important that you know it’s not as simple as looking over the paint chips in the store and just picking one.

There are many things you need to consider.

1. Quality of Light

This one is first because it’s definitely the biggest factor.

Natural light, as well as the light bulbs in your home, will drastically change the look of your chosen paint color.

Throughout the day, the quality of light changes. And so does the color temperature. It’s cooler in the morning and warmer in the late afternoon. And once it gets dark, your interior color temperature will depend on your light bulbs.

Each temperature pulls out a different color undertone.

So once you have settled on a paint color or two, ask to have a sample made up. That way, you can paint a few, small sections of paint on each wall.

Then look at how the color of your paint looks at all times of the day and in the evening. You want to be completely satisfied with how the color looks in all forms of natural light.

If you’re not pleased with how it looks under artificial light, that’s not as big of a problem. You can experiment with swapping out your light bulbs.

But you can’t change the quality of natural light!

2. Consider Your Textiles First

You need to think about how the textiles – drapery, upholstery fabric, pillows, etc. – are going to work with the paint color.

If you’re just changing the paint color of the room but not changing out any of the fabrics, then you’ll need to consider how they’ll mesh with the new paint color.

But, if you’re redesigning the entire room, then it’s a good idea to let your textiles drive your design. Otherwise, if you pick the paint color first, you’ll be limited to only the fabric options that complement that color.

And it’s far easier to make your paint match your textiles than the other way around.

3. Unification through Color

Are you thinking about doing your bedroom in yellow, but it’s next to the living room which has a lot of red?

Such a jarring transition can be hard on the eyes.

So when you choose your colors, be sure they don’t clash with your existing colors or with each other.

4. Know Your Finish

There are six finish options. They are listed from the flattest to the shiniest. They are as follows:

Flat
Matte
Eggshell
Satin
Semigloss
High gloss

When you’re picking your color, you’ll want to know how it’s going to play with the finish that you choose.

Flat is generally used for ceilings and not recommended for walls.

Satin, semigloss, and high gloss are more often used for doors and trim. So consider the extra sheen on the color when you’re choosing your door and trim colors.

Matte and eggshell are typically the best choices for painting walls. Matte will generally give a richer color than eggshell, but eggshell is more practical.

5. Pick the Right Primer

Our best advice? Avoid a white primer.

Unless you’re looking for a cold and stark look. Then have at it!

Get Your Brushes and Rollers

Or better yet, go easy on yourself and hire professional painters. Contact us now to get your free estimate.

Because once you’ve answered the question, “What color do I paint my house?” you’re ready to get started.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Is It Safe to Use Exterior Paint Inside?

January 30, 2025

Learn why using exterior paint indoors isn’t safe—and explore low-VOC interior options for a healthier, long-lasting paint finish for your Oregon home.

Is Expensive Paint Worth It?

January 15, 2025

Discover if premium paint is worth the cost. Explore quality differences, real costs, and tips to choose the right paint—and get more from each coat.

2025 Paint Color Trends: What’s Hot?

December 30, 2024

Interested in what's trending for 2025 interior paint colors? We've got the rundown for you!

How to Paint Doors in Your Senior Living Facility Without Disturbing Residents

December 19, 2024

Painting senior living facilities with minimal disruption requires experience, especially when it coms to painting doors! Here are a few tips...

Reducing Disruptions: Tips for Interior Painting in Healthcare Facilities

November 28, 2024

Planning to repaint a healthcare facility in Willamette Valley? Here are a few practical tips to help you make the very most of the process!

Using Paint to Improve Mood and Wellness: A Guide for Senior Living Facilities

November 15, 2024

Planning an interior repaint in your senior living facility? We have a few tips for you to help maximize mood and wellness with the right colors.

Seasonal Painting Tips for Healthcare and Retirement Homes: Maintaining Fresh and Safe Spaces

October 31, 2024

Creating a welcoming, clean, and safe environment is central to maintaining healthcare and retirement homes in the Willamette Valley. These spaces are more than buildings; they’re where residents and patients find care and comfort. So, every detail in the physical environment, from the lighting to the layout, should reflect your commitment to their well-being. One key yet often overlooked detail? Interior painting. When done thoughtfully, it goes far beyond aesthetics—it shapes the atmosphere, reinforces safety, and contributes to a sense of care that’s felt by everyone who walks through the door. Understanding the Needs of Healthcare and Retirement Homes It goes without saying: healthcare and retirement facilities have unique painting needs that go beyond aesthetics. High-traffic areas experience regular wear and tear, and frequent cleaning can cause paint to degrade faster than in typical environments. Additionally, maintaining a sanitary and safe environment is paramount. This is why painting should not only be about beautification but also about durability and hygiene. Seasonal painting schedules allow healthcare and retirement homes to address their most critical areas—like hallways, communal spaces, and entryways—at the right time, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum effectiveness. Seasonal Painting Considerations It’s all about having a predictable maintenance plan, simplifying your to-do list and keeping your facility looking its best throughout the year. 1. Spring/Summer: Refreshing the Exterior and Common Areas Spring and summer are ideal seasons for tackling exterior painting projects. The mild weather conditions mean paint will dry faster, and there’s less risk of moisture interfering with the application. Also consider brightening up communal spaces, such as dining areas and lounges. This can lift spirits and provide a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Seasonal colors like pastels or light neutrals can help create a calm and pleasant environment for residents. Summer into early fall is an ideal time for exterior painting too. The lower chances of rain and consistent temps allow for larger projects to be completed faster and with less interference from the weather. 2. Fall/Winter: Focus on Interior Updates The cooler months are ideal for tackling interior projects. During fall and winter, healthcare and retirement homes often operate at a more predictable pace, making it a good time to schedule interior painting updates without significantly disrupting daily routines. Winter is a great time to refresh patient rooms, hallways, and bathrooms with more durable finishes that can withstand regular cleaning.