The right trim color changes a home’s exterior greatly. It makes the house look cohesive and beautiful, and it matches the brickwork that is already there. With countless options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
This guide explores various color combinations that work well with brick homes, offering inspiration and practical advice for selecting the ideal trim color. From classic colors to bold, modern choices, you will learn how to create an exterior color scheme that shows your style while making your home’s unique features stand out.
Color Theory for Brick Homes
Color theory will help you make informed decisions when selecting trim colors that complement your brick exterior.
Complementary Colors
Complementary colors are opposite on the color wheel and create a striking contrast when used together. This usually means pairing warm-toned bricks with cool-toned trim colors. For example, red brick pairs well with green or blue trim, creating a bold and eye-catching look.
Analogous Colors
Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel, creating a harmonious, cohesive look. For brick homes, this might mean choosing trim colors similar in tone to the brick itself. For example, pair a reddish-orange brick with a warm brown or deep burgundy trim for an advanced, unified appearance.
Neutral Colors
Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige work with virtually any brick color. These versatile options allow the brick to take center stage while providing a clean, timeless look. Neutral trim colors are an excellent choice if you want a classic, understated appearance or plan to change your home’s color scheme.
Popular Brick and Trim Color Combinations
Now that we’ve covered the basics of color theory, let’s explore some popular brick and trim color combinations.
1. Classic Red Brick with White Trim
Red brick with white trim is one of the most timeless and versatile combinations. This classic pairing creates a crisp, clean look that suits various architectural styles. The white trim highlights the warm tones of the brick while providing a fresh, bright appearance. This combination works well for traditional homes, and you can easily update it with colorful accents on doors or shutters.
2. Warm Brown Brick with Sage Green Trim
For homes with brown or tan brick, sage green trim offers a nature-inspired color palette that’s both soothing and complex. This combination works particularly well for homes surrounded by lush landscaping, as it helps the house blend harmoniously with its environment. The earthy tones create a welcoming atmosphere, making a home feel more grounded and connected to its surroundings.
3. Gray Brick with Charcoal Trim
Modern homes with gray brick benefit from a monochromatic color scheme using charcoal trim. This sleek, contemporary look creates depth and dimension without introducing competing colors. The dark trim accentuates the home’s architectural features and makes windows and doors appear larger. This combination is ideal if you prefer a minimalist, urban look.
4. Beige Brick with Navy Blue Trim
You can change beige brick homes with the addition of navy blue trim. This unexpected pairing adds a touch of sophistication and coastal charm to the exterior. The deep blue hue creates a striking contrast against the light-colored brick, drawing attention to the home’s details and creating visual interest. This combination works well for both traditional and contemporary home styles.
5. Multi-Toned Brick with Taupe Trim
For homes with multi-toned brick featuring a mix of colors, a neutral taupe trim ties the various hues together. This versatile color choice complements the brick’s warm and cool tones, creating a cohesive look. Taupe trim allows the brick’s natural variations to shine while providing a subtle, elegant backdrop for other exterior elements.
Considerations When Choosing Trim Colors
Consider several factors when selecting a trim color for a brick home to guarantee the best possible outcome.
Architectural Style
The home’s architectural style plays a significant role in determining appropriate trim colors. For example, a Victorian-style home might benefit from bold, contrasting trim colors highlighting its ornate details. In contrast, a modern home might look best with a more subdued, monochromatic color scheme.
Surrounding Landscape
Consider the home’s natural surroundings when choosing trim colors. Homes in wooded areas look best with brown trim that matches the trees around them. Homes in cities look better with brighter, more eye-catching colors.
Roof Color
Consider your roof color when selecting trim colors. The trim color should complement the brick and the roof, creating a cohesive look. For example, a home with red brick and a dark gray roof might look best with white or light gray trim to balance the color palette.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, your taste should guide the selection of trim colors. While factors like architectural style and curb appeal matter, the chosen colors should reflect your style and preferences.
Tips for Testing and Applying Trim Colors
Once you identify potential trim colors, test them before committing to a full paint job:
- Test sample colors on multiple areas of the exterior to see how they look in different lighting.
- View samples throughout the day, as colors appear different in morning versus evening light.
- Photograph the samples—colors that look good in person may not photograph well.
- Prep surfaces by cleaning, scraping, and priming before painting.
- Use high-quality exterior paint for better durability and color retention.
Maintaining Trim Colors
Once you’ve selected and applied the perfect trim color, proper maintenance keeps your home’s exterior looking its best.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning maintains the vibrancy and appearance of the trim. Use a gentle cleaner to remove dirt and dust to avoid any build-up that could affect the paint’s appearance over time.
Touch-Up as Needed
We recommend regularly inspecting the trim for any signs of damage, such as chips or cracks. Address these issues quickly to maintain the trim’s integrity and a neat and polished exterior.
Repaint on Schedule
So the trim remains in great condition, plan to repaint every 5–7 years, depending on the exposure to the elements and the paint’s durability. A timely repainting schedule maintains the trim’s style and protective function.
