Transform Your Home's Exterior

Consider Your Home's Architecture

Different architectural styles work better with certain color palettes. Victorian homes often look stunning with bold, contrasting colors, while modern homes benefit from clean, monochromatic schemes.

Factor in Your Surroundings

Look at your neighborhood, landscape, and natural surroundings. In Kingston's beautiful natural setting, earth tones and colors that complement the changing seasons work particularly well.

Test Colors in Different Lighting

Paint samples can look dramatically different in various lighting conditions. Test your chosen colors on different sides of your home to see how they appear in morning, afternoon, and evening light.

Consider the Trim and Accents

Your main color should harmonize with existing elements like brick, stone, or roofing materials. Plan your color scheme to include the main body, trim, and accent colors.

Think Long-Term

While trendy colors might be appealing, consider choosing timeless colors that will look great for years to come and appeal to future buyers if you decide to sell.

1. Plan for Kingston's Weather

Kingston's climate requires careful timing. Avoid painting during humid summer days or when temperatures drop below 10°C. Spring and early fall offer the best conditions.

2. Invest in Quality Paint

High-quality exterior paint may cost more upfront but provides better coverage, durability, and color retention, especially important for Kingston's harsh winters.

3. Proper Surface Preparation is Key

Clean, scrape, and sand all surfaces thoroughly. Remove loose paint, fill cracks, and prime bare wood or metal surfaces for the best adhesion.

4. Use the Right Tools

Quality brushes and rollers make a significant difference. Use synthetic brushes for latex paint and natural bristles for oil-based paints.

5. Prime When Necessary

Always prime new wood, previously unpainted surfaces, or when making dramatic color changes. This ensures better coverage and longevity.

6. Work from Top to Bottom

Start with the highest points and work your way down. This prevents drips from ruining freshly painted lower sections.

7. Maintain a Wet Edge

Always paint into wet paint to avoid lap marks. Work in manageable sections and complete entire sides when possible.

8. Protect Landscaping

Cover plants, walkways, and outdoor furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to prevent paint damage.

9. Check Local Regulations

Some Kingston neighborhoods have specific color restrictions or require permits for exterior changes. Check with the city before starting.

10. Know When to Call Professionals

Multi-story homes, extensive prep work, or tight timelines often require professional expertise. Don't hesitate to get quotes from experienced Kingston painters.