Purchasing an older home comes with a unique set of challenges. You want to be sure your décor matches the period and style of the house for the most striking results. Here are some dos and don’ts to ensure you get the very best look:
- Matching Siding and Trim Colors: Must your siding and trim colors match, or should they provide vivid contrast? As a matter of fact, this is a choice that is entirely according to your taste. Older homes can be gorgeous with a monochromatic scheme, but contrasting colors are equally appropriate. Don’t use more than three colors for your exterior, and limit these to the trim, siding, and door. On rare occasions, you can choose a fourth for your shutters, but proceed with caution when considering this paint solution.
- Choosing Your Palette: Do some research to better understand the colors that will best complement the style and era of your new home. Earth tones are fitting for any architectural design, and wood is beautiful when stained with both pigmented and clear finishes. Traditional homes lose some of their integrity when splashed with bright, modern colors, so think twice before going with a dramatic look. Your home will look better if you avoid extreme changes and cover old paint with a similar color. Big changes from dark to light, or vice-versa, will show through when the inevitable scratches or peeling occur.
- Masonry: Concrete, brick, and stucco should be left unpainted for authenticity. They are already complete with their natural color. As an extra bonus, you can look forward to significantly reduced maintenance when you skip this extra, unnecessary step.
- Finish Your Woodwork: The wear and tear of weather, no matter the climate, will ruin your wood if it is left untreated. Moisture pulls color pigment out, leaving unattractive stains, making protection critical. Speak with your paint specialist for the specific brands that will best suit your local conditions.
- Preparing to Paint: The work you put in to preparing your surfaces before you paint will directly impact your end results. Quality prep will influence approximately 90% of your satisfaction with the finished exterior look. All of the old paint, particularly when blistered or peeling, must be scraped off and the wood sanded to remove any loose particles. Prime the bare wood, and then be sure to apply two coats of quality exterior house paint to ensure long life. Skimping on this step will guarantee your need to repaint in just a few years.
- Oil or Latex: Both oil and latex paints have great advantages, and your decision will be based on personal preference. However, if you choose to paint over old oil paint with latex, you absolutely must cover the surface with a special primer designed for this special purpose. Neglecting this step will guarantee your paint to failure.
There is so much to love about purchasing an older home – the history, the building materials, and the design. Make the most of your experience by selecting paint and stain colors and techniques geared exclusively to traditional styles.
This article was provided by Mitch Ribak who specializes in Cocoa FL real estate. If you’re interested in buying a home in paradise, you may want to check out Mitch’s Indian Harbour Beach Real Estate website where you have access to all Palm Bay real estate and surrounding areas.
