HOW EXTERIOR PAINT COLOR AFFECTS A HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Your home’s exterior color scheme can play a role in more than just making it look nice. From changing our everyday attitudes to helping visitors feel at ease within our walls, color can create the perfect atmosphere for a home. But that’s not all—color can also help us control the overall climate in our homes and keep us comfortable. When choosing a new color scheme, take into account how paint color affects a home’s energy efficiency.

Dark Versus Light

Whether you’re repainting your siding or your roof, the exterior colors on your home can play a major role in your comfort throughout the day. As you choose the right color for you, remember that darker colors tend to absorb heat from the sun while lighter colors can reflect it away from the home. This is important as it can determine how warm or cool your home stays and it’s crucial that you consider your local weather when making that decision.

For those who live in an area that gets more sun and heat, a heating and cooling contractor will tell you it’s typically more energy efficient to use lighter colors. In doing so, the exterior siding and roof will be able to reflect the heat and make it easier to keep your home cool. If you live in a cooler area on the other hand, then you may want to consider a darker color. Since deeper-colored paint can absorb up to 90 percent of the sun’s energy, this is an effective way to trap the additional heat in your home. As a result, you can save a decent amount of money that would’ve gone towards maintaining the home’s temperature.

Safe Options

Though these facts are good to keep in mind, not everyone lives in a polarized climate. As such, it’s important to consider what kind of weather patterns your area typically sees and how you can best accommodate that. For those that experience all four seasons, the answer might be to use a balanced color scheme. Pairing neutral colors such as white, light grey, or beige with darker or lighter accents will allow you to personalize the color’s effects on what you need. While the neutrals mostly reflect the sun, your darker accents still can absorb enough to save energy throughout the winter.

For all you need to know about exterior painting and siding, contact Bear Mountain Custom Painting. Our siding installation experts in Cumming, Georgia are here to answer whatever questions you have about exterior paint colors and get you the most beneficial results.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GUTTER SYSTEMS FOR A BEAUTIFUL HOME

Though your gutters may seem like an accessory on your home, they’re extremely important to maintaining the beauty and overall condition of your property. Directing excess rainwater away from your home’s foundation, these seemingly simplistic pipelines protect from flooding and prevent your home’s exterior from becoming ruined. Unfortunately, these pieces don’t last forever, and when they begin to deteriorate, your home can suffer more damage than you’d suspect. When you notice the signs to replace your gutters, check out some of these different types of gutter systems to make the best choice for your home.

Styles

While buying new gutters for your home might not be the most exciting renovation, they come in various styles to fit with a series of designs and colors. When going through your choices, be sure to consider the slope of your roof and how much rain you typically get in your location. These factors will help you determine what you need from your gutter system and leave room for more creativity when you’re choosing the design. With these options available, you’re sure to find what you need to get the job done and meet your styling at the same time.

K-Style

This style is very common due to its popular design and effective shape. K-style gutters can hold more water than rounded gutters can, so they’re particularly useful if you live in an area that receives a lot of rain. Since their decorative outer design is similar to crown moldings, they’re also good at complementing a home’s exterior and adding a bit of extra style.

Victorian Ogee

Victorian ogee gutters, or old gothic gutters as they’re more commonly known, have a distinct design inspired by the styles of 19th-century cast-iron gutters. Due to the history that this style evokes, these gutters often adorn older-styled homes to give off an antique appearance. Keep in mind, however, that Victorian ogee gutters are shallow and can’t hold as much water as other designs.

Fascia

Typically installed with fascia boards, these gutters have a flush connection with a home’s roof and create a seal to keep the water contained. Fascia gutters have a sharp and straight design that almost disguises it as part of the siding. Its ability to camouflage the outer rafters can help prevent water from seeping through the cracks and keep animals from finding a way into your home.

Half-Round

Half-round gutters have a very traditional appearance that works well on homes with a more antique design. They also come in a series of specific styles to more accurately capture the look you’re going for, such as double-bead, single-bead, and reverse bead. These additional styles won’t affect the way that the gutter performs and allow for more flexibility when making your decision.

European

Another subset of half-round gutters, homeowners note this style for the amount of class it can add to a home’s exterior. The slight hang of these gutters makes for an appealing appearance from the curb while remaining fully functional and effective during the rainy seasons.

Materials

In addition to the several gutter styles, different types of gutter systems come in various materials and colors for you to consider. Your decision will ultimately depend on how durable you’ll need the gutters to be and the amount of water they’ll need to hold. The materials you choose should be able to stand up to the elements and be strong enough to last for several years.

Vinyl

If you live in an area with frequent and heavy storms, vinyl gutters are an effective option to keep your home looking nice. Plus, it will prevent frequent gutter replacements. Since they’re made from strong and sturdy plastic, vinyl gutters are resistant to bending, denting, and corrosion from the elements. However, because they’re cheap and lightweight, it’s important to research which ones you want to ensure their quality.

Copper

Copper, aside from offering a beautiful color to your design, is also resistant to mold, mildew, and rust growth. This means that you won’t need to worry about conducting regular maintenance. This material also reacts to the elements and creates a desirable aging effect over time. Keep in mind that while copper gutters are a worthwhile investment, they tend to be higher in price and require a professional to install them correctly.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the most common gutter material used on homes across the country. Like vinyl, this material is incredibly lightweight and easy to install. Homeowners can also paint aluminum to match the pre-existing color scheme—they’re a perfect addition to any home. However, this material is more prone to denting and bending under prolonged stress so they may require some maintenance.

Steel

Steel gutters are extremely strong and come in a series of color options for you to choose from. Different models are available to help you find the right fit for your home. These models include stainless steel, galvanized steel, and galvalume steel. Each contains their own mix of metals and treatments to resist certain elements and slow down the rusting process.

Zinc

Zinc is a durable and long-lasting material that commonly appears on higher-end residences. They often require professional installation as contractors need to weld the joints together. But, like copper, zinc will weather and add character with a patina color scheme.

Sectional vs. Seamless Construction

Once you decide on the perfect style and material for your home, you must determine the construction of your gutters. While this doesn’t change how the gutters work, different constructions offer additional benefits and drawbacks when placed on certain houses.

Sectional constructions, for one, come from a series of gutter pipes and attach with connectors. This gives you the ability to properly measure and fit your home with the perfect-sized models. While they are very easy and quick to install, they can begin to leak at each connecting point and make them less effective over time.

Seamless constructions, on the other hand, come from just one piece of material and only have connectors at the gutter system’s corners and downspouts. This is typically the method used when building gutters with stronger materials such as steel and zinc. However, these gutters tend to be more expensive and need a professional to get the proper dimensions.

No matter the type of gutters you ultimately decide on, it’s important that you have them installed by qualified professionals to get the best results. We can provide you with those very resources at Bear Mountain Custom Painting. Our gutter installation services in Cumming, Georgia, can take the worry out of your gutter renovations and leave you at ease with quality, lasting results.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COLOR IN FENG SHUI AND HOW TO USE THEM

Style and design play an important role in a home’s overall atmosphere. As such, it’s crucial that you think about this feature before guests begin stepping over your threshold. Whether you want a space full of energy or to create a warm and cozy sanctuary, color can affect how we feel in a space. The use of color in the ancient practice of feng shui, in particular, can have a large impact on the positive energy in your home. Learn about the importance of color in feng shui to create a positive and warm atmosphere in your home.

The Feng Shui Elements

Colors, as they’re used in feng shui, are representative of the five natural elements: fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. Many believe these elements control the flow of positive and negative energy. As such, they must always be within balance to create a stable atmosphere. While you can incorporate these elements in various ways, one of the most common methods is to use the proper colors.

Fire

Designers typically connect fire-inspired colors with high-energy atmospheres as they represent warmth and passion. This is perfect for those who regularly invite guests over. Some of these colors include different shades of orange, red, pink, and strong yellow.

Earth

Earth tones promote health and stability and represent a strong foundation for your family and relationships to grow. Commonly-used earth colors in the home include light yellow, beige, and sandy-brown.

Metal

People value hues of gray and white for their ability to lighten up a room and add a sense of crisp cleanliness. This can contribute to your productivity levels and help you better manage stress.

Water

The tranquility associated with water can quiet the stress of the day and create the perfect place for you to relax and unwind. In the laws of feng shui, you can associate black and blue tones with potential wealth and prosperity.

Wood

Like earth colors, the wood element also brings growth and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Though it’s more often represented in brown and green hues, homeowners can incorporate wood via plant décor.

Incorporating Them Into a Home

It’s important to keep in mind that using the color you want in a room doesn’t guarantee it will have a positive effect. The flow of positive energy also has to do with the eight cardinal directions and the layout of your home. To ensure you get the best possible results, it’s important that you use a color that corresponds to the cardinal direction of the room or house. For instance, using the water element in the north, east, and southeast rooms of your home will be more beneficial than elsewhere.

Whether you’re looking to promote positive energies in your home or simply want a fresh coat of paint, Bear Mountain Custom Painting can make it happen. Our professional interior painting services in Cumming, Georgia can help you find the color you’re looking for and paint your home accordingly.

THE MOST VITAL REASONS TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL DOOR INSTALLER

While you can accomplish many home renovation projects on your own, there are some jobs that you should leave to the professionals. Door installation, particularly exterior door installation, is certainly on this list. As the first line of defense for you and your family, you must take this additional step when replacing your exterior doors to preserve your security. But that’s not all—there are a series of additional reasons to hire a professional door installation service in Alpharetta, GA.

Saves You Time

Door installation professionals have the job down to an art. Their experience and knowledge within the field allow them to assess what each specific job requires and perform the task in the most efficient manner. Professional installers are also willing to work with your schedule and put in the additional effort of scheduling a time that is beneficial for everyone involved.

Comes with Debris Removal

Replacing a part of your home generally means that you’ll have to find a way to dispose of the older model. By hiring a door installation company, you’ll be checking this task off your list of chores and getting rid of the potential stress. These professionals know how important your home is to you and realize the significance of leaving the job site in the best possible condition.

Proper Installation for Specific Doors

Since doors come in several shapes, sizes, and materials, the method that’s used to install them can vary. For instance, doors that consist of heavier materials, such as wood or metal, need stronger brackets to hold them in place. Not using the proper brackets can keep the door from sitting the way it should in the frame and make it less efficient for you. Professionals know which tools they’ll need to install specific doors and make sure that it’s fitted in a way that’s most beneficial for you.

Increased Security and Safety

Exterior doors can be difficult to install as they tend to be large and awkward to transport. Their weight also makes them dangerous to handle. For those who don’t have experience moving things of that heft, the risk for dropping it and getting injured increases. Additionally, a properly installed door makes your home more secure from the outside world. Knowing that you and your family are safe, you’ll surely be able to sleep a bit better at night.

Bear Mountain Custom Painting strives to provide you with experienced professionals who can get the job done right. Ask us about door installation in Cumming, Georgia, to find out how we can grant you these benefits and more.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIDING COLOR FOR YOUR HOME

When the time comes to repaint your home’s exterior, picking the perfect color is essential to the overall appearance of the property. Color can play a role in your home’s energy efficiency, design, and even its value. As you debate over which ones would be the best fit, practice some of these strategies for choosing the right siding color for your home.

Get Ideas from Your Neighbors

When you try to decide what colors would look best on your home, it’s often beneficial to look for inspiration from your neighbors. Though you’re free to paint your home whatever color you choose, picking one that accentuates the rest of the neighborhood is a great way to increase property value. You can examine other homes of similar design and layout to also give you a better idea of what colors will best complement your home.

Think About the Local Weather

Believe it or not, certain color schemes can amplify the local weather and affect your overall comfort level within the home. According to Modern Mechanical, “Darker colored exterior paint can absorb up to 90 percent of the energy from the sun, while a lighter exterior color impacts your indoor comfort more.” So, if you live in a warmer area with plenty of direct sunlight, it would be the most energy efficient for you to use lighter colors, as they will keep the home cooler. Dark colors are more suited for areas with long and harsh winters, as they help the siding hold in heat.

Compare Swatches to Your Roof and Trim

If you only want to repaint your siding, it’s important to remember your siding should complement other exterior parts of the house. Don’t let this hinder your creativity, though. While it’s recommended you pick a color in the same family as your roof and trim, you can adjust the lightness to suit your vision. If your roof is a darker color, for instance, you may want to pair a lighter siding with a white trim to make it appear brighter and more welcoming.

Remember Complementary Colors

Complementary colors are the key to developing a series of beautiful color schemes. With just one color in mind, you can find a list of similar colors for you to choose from. This will allow you to create a color scheme that is unique to your home and maintain a consistent look. Typically, when you use complementary colors, you want to pair a main color with one or two more that are lighter or darker than the original. This will ensure you stick with the same color scheme while you draw attention to certain aspects of the home.

For help with deciding on a color scheme and applying it to your home, Bear Mountain Custom Painting are the professionals you want to reach out to. Our home painters in Cumming, Georgia, know the pros and cons of certain design choices and can answer whatever exterior painting questions you have about your Georgia home.

THE BASICS OF LIMEWASHING YOUR HOME: A BELOVED EXTERIOR STYLE

While painted brick siding can revitalize and modernize an older-styled home, many homeowners are turning to the limewashing method. With the clean appeal of fresh paint and pops of color from your bricks’ surfaces, this technique suits every style of home. If you’re looking for a way to update your brick siding while keeping an aged appearance, study up on the basics of limewashing your home.

An Overview of Limewash

While people use the terms “limewash” and “whitewash” interchangeably, limewash is only one type of whitewash that you can use on your brick. Unlike other whitewashes, this wash comes from powdered limestone which manufacturers treat with water in a high-heat environment. This process produces a lime substance that dissolves in water and turns into the limewash. If you give the limewash enough time to soak into the porous surface of the brick, you can then rinse it off in selected sections to create a custom faded look.

If you’re attempting to make your own limewash, be sure you take the proper measurements to get the right consistency. According to BobVilla, “The correct ratio is approximately 80 percent water to 20 percent hydrated lime (by weight).” By maintaining this ratio, you can easily make however much you need for the project. Using too much or too little of either ingredient may result in a wash that’s too thin or thick to properly soak into the brick.
Not as thick or heavy as paint, limewash is most effective when it’s the consistency of whole milk. When mixed too thin, you’ll have to use more product than necessary to get the color you’re after. Plus, it will wash off easier than it’s supposed to during the rinsing phase. On the other hand, using limewash that’s too thick will simply stick to the brick as paint does and prevent you from creating the antique, faded look you’re after.

The Process: How to Get the Best Results

One of the most crucial basics of limewashing your home is that you take some time to clean the brick you’re going to be using it on. Residual dust and dirt on the surface could act as a barrier between the wash and the brick, making the process less effective in the long run. Usually, homeowners can accomplish this step by simply spraying down their siding with a garden hose. However, if you’re finding that there are persistent sections of dirt and grime, you may need to use an all-purpose cleaner and a stiff scrubbing brush.

Additionally, you’re going to want to make sure that the weather allows for a successful project. Ideally, you should be applying the limewash in overcast weather. Direct sunlight can cause the wash to dry out before it has a chance to soak into the brick, making it more of a paint job than you originally intended.
Once its weather permitting and your brick siding is clean enough, you can begin mixing your limewash. However, before you start, be sure that you’re taking the proper safety precautions to avoid developing potential health issues. Hydrated lime powder can be an irritant to an individual’s skin and eyes. As such, take extra care to put on safety goggles and rubber gloves before you begin handling the materials. After taking these precautions, proceed to add the proper ratio of lime and water, and mix them until you get the ideal consistency.

Apply the limewash with a large paintbrush as you’ll need to work it into various nooks and crannies on the brick’s surface. The most effective way to accomplish this is by using several thin coats to layer the limewash until you get the opaque color you’re looking for. As you finish up with this initial washing, be sure to allow enough time for it to dry. This will ensure that you don’t remove all the wash as you create your design.
When you go to rinse the limewash, re-wet the areas you want to look faded and gently wipe it away. This will expose the brick underneath and leave you with gradual smears of color across the surface. The beauty of this process is that you can remove as much or as little of the wash as you’d like and create a design that’s unique to your home.

As with any home improvement project, it’s important that you consider hiring a professional paint contractor if you don’t feel comfortable taking on the task yourself. While limewashing is an effective and rewarding technique, it’s recommended that you have someone with experience do it to get the best results.

Tips for Maintaining Limewash

Once your limewash fully dries (this takes about seven days), it should calcify enough that it will become somewhat resistant to the elements. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it won’t be entirely weather-proof. So, be sure to utilize these maintenance tips to keep your limewashed siding looking good throughout the years. 

Wash Carefully (If at All)

Though it’ll take more effort to remove the limewash once it’s had the chance to dry, it’s still very susceptible to water and pressure. If you notice that your surfaces have stains or dirt that you want to remove, use a damp rag and dab lightly to get the best results. However, it’s often uncommon that you’ll need to wash limewash surfaces as it typically doesn’t show much dirt.

You May Need to Reapply

Over years of weather exposure, you might notice that your limewash exterior is beginning to wear down and expose more of your natural brick siding. To maintain the whitewashed look you originally sought after, reapply your limewash every five to seven years. You may also want to do continuous touch-ups to stay in control of how the surface erodes.

To learn more about the limewashing process and how you can apply it to your own home, reach out to Bear Mountain Custom Painting. Ourexterior painting professionals in Cumming, Georgia, will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision based on the style and design of your home. 

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