As spring approaches, homeowners often look to spruce up their exteriors with fresh paint. However, many contractors tend to fill up their schedules once the weather warms, making it difficult to find a time for your project.
But what if there was a way to get your exterior painting done much earlier in the season? The answer lies in choosing the right paint—one that can be applied in winter conditions.

The Perfect Solution: Element Guard® Exterior Paint
If you’re eager to get ahead of the spring rush, consider using Element Guard® Exterior Paint from Benjamin Moore. This innovative paint is specially formulated to perform exceptionally well in challenging weather conditions, including high moisture and colder temperatures. Unlike traditional paints that can only be applied in optimal temperatures and low humidity, Element Guard® allows you to have more flexibility when you paint.

Why Act Now?
Winter is a great opportunity to rethink and refresh your home’s exterior. By using Element Guard®, you can ensure that the weather won’t hinder your paint job and jumpstart your project before the inevitable spring rush begins.
​
As soon as the temperatures rise and the flowers begin to bloom, many homeowners will be searching for contractors to refresh their exteriors. By painting now, you can avoid the long wait times that come with a crowded calendar.
​
Benefits of Early Planning

1. Availability. Many contractors will already be booked once the season is in full swing. By scheduling your project during the winter, you’ll have a wider selection of contractors to choose from.

1. Quicker completion. Beat the rush and complete your painting project earlier in the season, allowing more time for you to enjoy your refreshed home.

1. Superior finish. Element Guard® Exterior Paint not only ensures durability but also a smooth, even finish that will stand the test of time.
2. Market-ready. If you plan on selling your home during the busy spring and summer real estate seasons, painting now ensures you can get your home on the market as soon as you’re ready without contractor delays.

Tips to Ensure a Successful Painting Project
Before you dive into your project, be sure to:

• Plan your colors. Take some time to choose a color scheme that will elevate your home’s exterior curb appeal and protect its value.

• Hire the right contractor. Do your research and find a contractor who has experience working with cold-weather paints and conducting necessary repairs before painting to bring your vision to life.
  ​
  

Find Your Paint at Color Wheel
Why wait for brighter days when you can schedule your project today? If you’re ready to take the plunge and give your home a fresh look, contact Color Wheel to discuss your painting project. Let us help you ensure your home is ready to shine when spring finally arrives!

Your front door is the centerpiece of your home’s exterior, and a fresh coat of paint can give it a new life. Whether you want to switch up the color or simply freshen up the existing one, painting your front door is a great DIY project.

However, to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish, it’s crucial to follow a few essential steps. Here are our top tips for painting your home’s front door, including how to prep, when you can close it after painting, and how long it takes for the paint to dry.

Prepping Your Front Door
Before you dive into painting your front door, thorough preparation is key. Follow these steps to ensure the best possible results:

1. Clean the door. Start by cleaning the door thoroughly with mild soap, water, and a sponge. Remove any dirt, grime, or grease that may interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Rinse well and let the door dry completely.
   
2. Remove hardware. Take off all hardware, such as doorknobs, locks, and hinges, to make painting easier and prevent accidental paint drips. If removing the hardware is not an option, cover it with painter’s tape for protection.
3. Sand and smooth. Use sandpaper to lightly sand the door’s surface. This will create a rough texture for the paint to adhere to. Sanding will also smooth out any imperfections, such as chipped paint. Wipe away any dust left from sanding when you’re done.
4. Patch and repair. Inspect the door for any cracks, holes, or dents. Fill them with a wood filler or an appropriate patching compound. Once dry, sand the patched areas to ensure they are even with the rest of the door’s surface.
   
5. Prime the door. To enhance paint adhesion and improve the overall durability of your paint, apply a thin coat of primer. Pick a primer compatible with the door’s material (wood, metal, or fiberglass). Let the primer dry completely before painting.

Choosing the Right Front Door Paint
Now that you have properly prepped your front door, it’s time to paint! Choosing the right paint is a crucial step to ensure the results you want.

Choose high-quality paint in a color that will complement your home’s siding, garage doors, porch, or any other elements you’d like to consider. You’ll need weatherproof exterior paint that can handle the daily use that front doors typically experience, so it should be resistant to scratches, scuffs, and fading.
​
Semi-gloss paints are most popular for front doors, but it all depends on your unique style. Just remember that flat or eggshell paints can be less durable and show more damage.

When Can I Close the Front Door After Painting?
It’s important to allow the paint plenty of time to dry before closing the front door. Closing the door too soon can cause the paint to smudge, stick, or pull away from the surface, ruining your hard work.

The exact drying time will vary depending on humidity, temperature, and the type of paint used. As a general rule, wait at least two to three hours before gently closing the door.
​
However, you may need to leave your door open overnight or for at least 24 hours to ensure complete drying and prevent damage to your new paint job.

How Long Does It Take for a Front Door to Dry After Painting?
While you can usually close the front door after a few hours, remember that it will take longer for the paint to fully cure and harden. This curing time depends on the type of paint used.

For example, latex or water-based paints typically dry faster, taking around one to two days to dry completely. On the other hand, oil-based paints require more time to dry, often needing two to three days or even longer.

To prevent damage to your door’s fresh coat of paint, avoid touching or placing objects against the door until the paint has fully cured.

Find Your Perfect Paint at Color Wheel​
Is it time to paint your home’s front door for a fresh look? Find your perfect paint at Color Wheel. Our team can help you find the right exterior paint brand, color, and finish to refresh your door and make a great first impression. Stop by and see us today!

Fall is here! Say hello to pleasant temperatures, mild weather, and stunning foliage. But did you know that fall is also a great time to tackle exterior painting projects?

While many homeowners think spring and summer are better for outdoor painting, fall offers unique benefits that make it the perfect season to refresh and protect the exterior of your home.

Let’s talk about why fall is the right time to paint outside and review helpful tips for a successful fall painting project.

Mild Temperatures
One of the main advantages of fall painting is the mild temperatures. Unlike the hot summer months or the freezing winter, fall offers a comfortable environment for painting.

High temperatures can cause paint to dry too quickly, causing uneven finishes and bubbling or cracking. On the other hand, cold temperatures can hinder paint from drying properly.
​
In fall, the moderate temperatures allow for optimal paint application and drying, resulting in a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Stable Weather Conditions​
Fall typically brings more stable weather compared to other seasons. With less humidity, rain, and fluctuating temperatures, you can have more consistent conditions for painting.

More consistency in the weather allows you to tackle larger painting projects that may take several days. It also allows paint to adhere well to surfaces and dry evenly, preventing the need for touch-ups or repainting due to weather-related issues.

Paint requires sufficient time to dry and cure properly for maximum durability and longevity. During fall, the lower humidity levels allow for faster drying times compared to the more humid summer months. Lower humidity ensures that paint has ample opportunity to bind to surfaces and create a strong, protective barrier against the elements.

Preparing for Winter
Painting your home’s exterior in the fall serves as a proactive step to protect it from harsh winter weather.

As temperatures drop, ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on the exterior surfaces of your home. Applying a fresh coat of paint before winter creates a protective layer that seals and shields the underlying materials, helping to prevent moisture infiltration, wood rot, and other damage caused by winter weather conditions.

Depending on where you live and the temperatures this season, it’s generally a good time to paint your home from early to mid-autumn.

Tips for Successful Fall Painting
How can you prepare for your next painting project? We have some helpful tips for successful fall painting here!

• Check the forecast. Choose a week with consistent mild temperatures and no rain to prevent interruptions and ensure proper paint adhesion.
• Prep the surfaces. Thoroughly clean and prepare the surfaces to ensure optimal paint adhesion. This includes repairing any damaged wood or siding on your home.
• Get the right paint. Select high-quality exterior paint in your color and finish of choice to ensure your home will look great for years to come.
• Take safety precautions. Use appropriate safety equipment, such as goggles and masks, if working with chemical cleaners or sanding surfaces.
• Work during daylight hours. With the shorter days in fall, make the most of daylight hours for painting and allow sufficient drying time.

Get Your Fall Painting Supplies at Color Wheel
Fall provides the perfect opportunity to embark on outdoor painting projects. By scheduling your project in the fall and following the above tips, you can enjoy a refreshed and protected home for the upcoming seasons. Are you ready to grab a paintbrush and make the most of this ideal time to paint outside? Stop by Color Wheel to get all your fall painting supplies!

Spring is here, and it’s time to get your patio, deck, or porch ready to enjoy beautiful weather.

Painting is a popular way to refresh exterior furniture and planters for a mini home makeover that can dramatically increase your home’s curb appeal—not to mention impress friends and family when they visit!

But when getting started with painting exterior furniture and planters, where do you begin?
​
Color Wheel has the tips you need for a successful painting project so your outdoor spaces will look more beautiful and refreshed than ever this spring.

Properly Prep Your Furniture, Planters, and Painting Area
A successful paint job depends on the right preparation. You’ll need to properly prep your furniture, planters, and painting area to ensure a successful project.
​
First, determine what material your furniture or planter is. It may be plastic, metal, wood, or, in the case of furniture, wicker. For all these materials, you will need to:

1. Clean the furniture or planter
2. Remove any loose paint
3. Sand down or remove any rust
4. Remove hardware and stickers

If the surface of your furniture or planter is shiny, you will need to use sandpaper to rough up the surface a bit so the paint will stick to it. Don’t forget to wipe it down again after using the sandpaper. If you use a damp cloth to wipe the surface, remember it must be completely dry before painting.

You’ll also need to prepare your painting area using protective material with drop cloths and move other items you don’t intend to paint out of the way, especially if you use spray paint.

Choose the Right Paint and Follow the Instructions

Choosing the right paint is important because it will make all the difference in how your furniture and planters turn out.

For example, spray paint is a popular choice for outdoor furniture and planters, but you must choose the right kind for your material. Some spray paint is designed for use on wood or metal, not plastic. If you want to use spray paint on plastic, choose a paint that specifically says it can be used on plastic.
​
You’ll also need to choose the finish you want. You may want a matte or glossy finish. Keep in mind that glossy finishes won’t need a sealer, while matte finishes will. You may also need to look for rust-resistant paint if you are painting metal or UV-resistant paint if you are painting plastic.

Don’t Forget the Sealer (If Needed)
Unless you are using exterior-grade paint—which is the best choice for exterior furniture and planters—you will likely need a sealer. If you paint planters with interior paint, it’s essential to use a sealer if you will be using them outside.

A sealer will help protect the paint from sun and water damage. It’s necessary for matte finishes, but if you are using spray paint that has a glossy finish, you won’t need one.

Sealers are also necessary for distressed wood furniture to preserve the look. Generally, a few coats of sealer are needed to protect the paint and keep your furniture and planters looking great for many seasons to come.

Find Your Perfect Paint at Color Wheel
We have all the painting supplies and exterior-grade paints you need to refresh your planters and outdoor furniture at Color Wheel. Choose the perfect paint by stopping by our locations in McLean or Fairfax today!

Painting is one of the best ways to improve the interior of your home before putting it on the market. A fresh coat of paint can cover minor imperfections such as scuffs and faded walls. Paint can also make the interior of your home look newer and net a better price for your property.

Whether you went a bit overboard with feature walls or bold colors in your home or simply want to refresh the interior, it’s worth it to consider painting before putting your house on the market.

But with so many paint colors to choose from, where do you start? We’ve narrowed down the most popular paint colors to make your selection process easier.

White, White, White
Choosing a white paint is the easiest way to improve the appearance of your home before selling. White paint allows buyers to imagine their items or décor in a space, but it also enables them to visualize different colors on the walls.

White paint can also make a home look bigger, cleaner, and brighter from the inside.

You can go with an off-white, but be selective, as not all white paint colors are created equal. For example, some white paints have tints that can make them appear more dingy or have an undertone of blue, white, or pink. If these aren’t the looks you’re going for, stick to a more true white.

We recommend: Benjamin Moore’s Mascarpone (AF-20) because it’s a soft, warm off-white that helps warm up interior spaces without being too yellow. We also recommend Farrow & Ball’s Wimborne White (#239), another soft, warm white with hints of yellow.

Cool and Warm Grays​
It’s hard to argue with the popularity of gray paint. However, gray paint has a timeless feature that extends beyond modern charm. Grays are flattering in natural and artificial lighting and go with practically any décor or home style.

Grays can be cool or warm and can be used for everything from traditional to modern homes. There is even a popular tone called “greige”, which is gray paint with hints of beige or a beige undertone.

Choosing gray paint allows the new homeowners to have a blank canvas to personalize the house. It can even help improve the versatility of certain rooms, as gray works well for an office, bedroom, or even a playroom. Warm grays are staying in fashion, so consider a warmer hue with green or even purple undertones.

We recommend: Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl (2137-60) as it’s a light gray yet still has enough pigment to give your rooms a little color.

Timeless and Versatile Neutrals
All the colors we’ve discussed so far are considered neutrals. However, if you’re not keen on white or gray, or feel these colors wouldn’t flatter your particular home’s style, you have other options.

Timeless and versatile neutrals can flatter virtually any space. These include colors such as beige and some pastels, such as light blue or green. When choosing neutral colors, be sure to stick to a consistent color palette. The rooms should all feel like they are part of the same home.

Other neutral options include soft pinks, tans, and champagne tones that you can use in almost any room.
​
We recommend: Benjamin Moore’s Muslin (OC-12), a lovely soft neutral beige that looks great in large spaces and doesn’t come across as dingy as some other beiges can do. We also recommend Farrow & Ball’s Skimming Stone (#241)—this paint may look gray in some lighting, but it has a warm beige undertone to help warm up the walls and make a space feel cozy.

Choose the Perfect Paint Color to Sell Your Home Fast
You may be surprised just how much your home’s paint color can impact its time on the market and its selling price. When painting your home before selling, let Color Wheel help you choose the best paint colors for your interior spaces. Contact us to get started today at (703) 356-8477 for an appointment, or stop by to see our amazing color selections from Benjamin Moore Paint and Farrow & Ball Paint.