What Color Should You Paint Your Exterior Trim? Here Are 10 Colors to Try Out

This '50s-era ranch house got a new lease on life with a warm, earthy palette of gray and brown. The gray trim helps unite the dark gray-brown exterior brick with the black shutters and white vinyl windows.

If you're looking for high contrast with a classic spin, you can't go wrong with bright, white trim. Although it's one of the best choices when it comes to sun fading, it also tends to get dirty quick.

Black is the most effective way to add drama to your exterior. Since black is a neutral, it works well with just about every color in the spectrum. Keep in mind, though, that black can quickly turn yellow-green when coated with a layer of springtime pollen. In order to keep it true to its color, you'll need to hose down your trim and shutters if you live in areas highly affected by pollen.

If contrastic is too much for you, a monochromatic look may be right up your alley. This look is achieved by painting the trim of the house the same color as its exterior. To keep this look from falling flat, be sure to use a more matte finish on the exterior and a glossier finish on the trim and shutters.

Taupe garage doors offer a pleasant contrast against the gray brick exterior.

If you're scared of color but want to introduce it to your exterior, consider using earthy greens on your trim and shutters. While rich pine greens can appear moody and rugged, mossy greens will come off a bit softer and work well with all earth tones.

Bring a tranquil look to your exterior by adding a muted color to your trim and shutters. Washed-out, glassy beach tones, such as faint blue-gray and faded aqua, work well with dark and light exteriors.

If you're tempted to add touches of red to your exterior, simply try painting a side door or shutters with a glossy shade of this high-energy hue. Oftentimes, just a few concentrated pops of red will do the trick without overwhelming your home.

If you're reluctant to use bold color but want to introduce it outside, consider using brick red on your trim and shutters for an unexpected splash of hue.