29 Apr
How to Choose the Perfect Exterior Paint Colors for Your Home

Key Features of Exterior Paint Selection

  • Durability and Weather Resistance: Look for 100% acrylic paint for the best performance in various weather conditions.
  • Color Retention: Opt for fade-resistant pigments to maintain vibrant colors over the years.
  • Ease of Application: Choose paints with superior coverage, reducing the need for multiple coats.


Paint Selection, Does It Really Matter?

When it comes to painting your home’s exterior, selecting the right paint colors can be a daunting task. From choosing the ideal shade to deciding between brands, many homeowners find themselves overwhelmed with options. This guide will help simplify the process, providing tips on selecting the best exterior paint colors to transform your home and boost curb appeal.


Things to Know

  • Weather Impacts Color: The Pacific Northwest's rainy climate requires paints that withstand moisture and mildew.
  • Light Reflects Color: Colors can appear differently depending on the time of day and lighting conditions.
  • Quality Matters: High-quality paint saves time and money by reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
  • Ordering Online is Easy: Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer convenient online shopping options for exterior paints.



When deciding on an exterior paint color, it's crucial to consider your home's architecture, landscaping, and neighborhood aesthetics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to selecting the perfect exterior paint:

  1. Assess Your Home’s Style: Traditional homes look great with classic colors like navy blue or colonial red, while modern homes can pull off bolder, contrasting shades.
  2. Sample Before You Commit: Always test paint samples on your exterior walls and observe how they appear during different times of the day. The natural lighting can significantly alter the look of a color.
  3. Consider Your Climate: In the Pacific Northwest, where rain is common, choosing a high-quality acrylic exterior paint is essential to prevent moisture damage. Look for products like Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint or Behr Premium Plus for optimal protection.
  4. Choose Complementary Accents: Don't forget about trim and accent colors. A well-chosen trim color can enhance the overall look of your home, creating a cohesive design.
  5. Order Paint Online: If convenience is a priority, you can order paint online from stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Many of these stores offer free delivery or in-store pickup options.

Which Store Offers the Best Prices on Building Materials?

Both Lowe’s and Home Depot frequently compete on pricing, offering comparable prices on most materials. However, prices can vary based on the season, store location, and promotions.

  • Lumber: Home Depot tends to offer better deals on lumber products, with competitive bulk pricing. If your project involves framing, decking, or fencing, it’s worth checking their prices.
  • Paint and Painting Supplies: Lowe’s typically carries more promotions on paint brands like Valspar, while Home Depot focuses heavily on Behr and Glidden. Both stores offer affordable options, but Lowe’s might edge out with seasonal paint discounts.
  • Flooring and Tile: Home Depot often provides lower base prices on popular flooring products, such as laminate and vinyl planks. However, Lowe’s may offer better financing deals, especially if you’re looking for special order tiles.

Pro Tip:

When choosing between the two, it’s wise to cross-check prices on their websites. You may also want to sign up for newsletters to catch exclusive discounts that aren’t available in-store.


CategoryLowe’sHome Depot
Paint DealsFrequent Valspar salesRegular Behr promotions
Flooring SalesOccasional tile discountsLower prices on vinyl flooring
Bulk Material DiscountsLess frequentOften available year-round


Who Has Better Sales and Promotions?

Both stores offer year-round sales, with discounts often peaking during holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.

  • Lowe’s: Known for offering deeper discounts on appliances, lighting, and decor during seasonal sales.
  • Home Depot: Tends to provide better deals on bulk materials and tools, making it ideal for contractors or DIYers with large projects.

You can maximize savings by using each store’s price-match policy. Lowe’s will match Home Depot’s prices (and vice versa), so keep an eye out for special offers at both.


lowe's vs home depot


Which Store Provides the Best Tool Rental Options?

If your project requires power tools or heavy equipment, renting can save you significant upfront costs. Both stores offer tool rental services, but Home Depot’s selection tends to be more extensive.

  • Home Depot: Known for a wider selection of heavy equipment rentals, such as jackhammers, concrete mixers, and power washers. Rental rates are competitive, especially for longer periods.
  • Lowe’s: While Lowe’s has fewer rental options, it provides essential tools like power drills and tile cutters. The smaller selection may suffice for simple DIY projects.

Quick Comparison of Tool Rentals


FeatureLowe’sHome Depot
Rental AvailabilityLimited but includes basicsExtensive equipment selection
Rental PricingSimilar rates for small toolsBetter pricing for heavy tools


Are Delivery Fees Different Between Lowe’s and Home Depot?

For larger projects, delivery costs can add up. Both Lowe’s and Home Depot offer delivery services, but their fees and policies differ slightly.

  • Lowe’s: Offers free delivery on appliances costing over $299, which is a great perk if you’re buying major appliances. Delivery fees for smaller items range from $79 to $99.
  • Home Depot: Also provides free delivery on select appliances and larger orders. However, their delivery windows may be more flexible, especially for bulk orders like drywall or lumber.

If you’re buying online, check whether same-day or next-day delivery is available. Both stores also offer curbside pickup as a convenient (and free) alternative.


In Our Experience:

"We've found that selecting the right exterior paint is not just about color but also about quality. Brands like Behr and Sherwin-Williams have proven their durability and weather resistance in the often unpredictable Portland climate. Whether you’re refreshing your home’s exterior or tackling a complete color makeover, investing in premium paint products pays off in the long run."



How Does Customer Service Compare?

Customer service can make or break your shopping experience, especially when you need advice or assistance.

  • Lowe’s: Known for having knowledgeable staff in specific departments, such as appliances and garden centers. They also offer free design consultations, which can be helpful for remodeling projects.
  • Home Depot: Home Depot tends to shine in the tools and hardware departments. Many locations have in-house workshops where you can learn DIY skills for free.

Key Customer Service Perks


ServiceLowe’sHome Depot
Design ConsultationsFree for kitchens and bathroomsLimited to kitchen remodeling
DIY WorkshopsOccasionalRegular workshops available
Online Chat SupportAvailableAvailable


Which Store Should You Choose for Your Next Project?

Ultimately, the choice between Lowe’s and Home Depot depends on your specific project needs.

  • Lowe’s is a better option if:
    • You’re looking for great deals on appliances and lighting.
    • You prefer Valspar paint or need free design consultations.
    • You value helpful staff for smaller DIY projects.


  • Home Depot is the way to go if:
    • You need heavy equipment rentals or specialized tools.
    • Your project involves bulk materials, such as lumber or drywall.
    • You’re interested in free DIY workshops to boost your skills.

Conclusion

Choosing the right exterior paint can transform your home's appearance, boost its value, and protect it from the elements. Whether you're repainting your entire exterior or just refreshing the trim, investing in high-quality paint and selecting the right color palette will ensure long-lasting beauty. For professional advice and painting services, contact Lightmen Painting today!


Do You Have Questions? Give Us A Call 503-389-5758


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People Also Ask:

What exterior paint colors are trending for 2024?

Neutrals and earthy tones are popular this year. Soft grays, deep greens, and rich blues are leading the way for modern, timeless exteriors.

Is Behr or Valspar better for exterior paint?

Both brands offer excellent exterior paint options, but Behr is often praised for its durability, while Valspar excels in color vibrancy and coverage.

Can I order paint online from Home Depot?

Yes, Home Depot allows you to order paint online and even offers delivery options, making it convenient to get paint supplies without visiting the store.


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If your in the Portland, Or. area and need advice or a free no obligation estimate call us at 503-389-5758 or email scheduling@lightmenpainting.com


Shout Out: 

Celebrating Pinnacle Painting

For those considering the best finishes for exterior painting, Pinnacle Painting's blog offers excellent advice. At Lightmen Painting, we know that the right finish can make all the difference, and Pinnacle Painting’s expertise helps homeowners choose options that will stand the test of time.


Thanks for stopping by Lightmen Daily! Stay tuned for more practical tips and expert advice on making your painting projects flawless, from wall to floor!


Definitions

  • Lowe’s White Ceiling Paint: A popular option for homeowners looking to refresh their ceilings with a clean, bright finish.
  • Home Depot Paint Online Ordering: The process of purchasing paint from Home Depot's website for home delivery.
  • Behr Paint Type Comparison: Evaluating different Behr paint types like Marquee, Ultra, and Premium Plus.
  • Cheapest Interior Paint Near Me: Finding affordable paint options at local stores.
  • Glidden vs. Valspar: Comparing two popular paint brands based on quality, coverage, and pricing.


Lightmen Painting Serving: Portland, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Tualatin, West Linn, Milwaukie, Sherwood, Happy Valley, Oregon City, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Gresham

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