Black exterior paint is becoming more popular. It creates a bold and modern look for homes. Many homeowners choose black to give their house a sleek, stylish appearance. Black paint helps a home stand out in any neighborhood.
Choosing the right shade of black is important for the best effect. Some blacks have warm tones, while others are cooler. The right shade can highlight a home’s features and blend well with the surroundings.
Picking the perfect black makes the house look better and more connected to its environment. It can also make the home feel more inviting and unique.
Top Black Exterior Paint Colors
Black exterior paint adds depth and character to a home. It creates strong contrast and highlights architectural details.
When applied to full exteriors, doors, or trims, black paint can bring a bold and polished finish. Below are 12 popular black paint colors, each with its own features and best uses.
1. Benjamin Moore’s Soot 2129-20
Soot is a deep black with cool blue undertones. This slight hint of blue softens the color, making it feel balanced rather than overly dark. It works well in modern home designs where a clean, sharp appearance is desired.
This shade is a great choice for homes with large windows or glass elements. It creates a bold contrast while blending smoothly with modern materials like steel and concrete. Soot also performs well in shaded areas, keeping its depth without looking dull.
For a striking effect, pair Soot with bright door colors such as red or mustard yellow. Light-colored porch furniture and warm lighting can also help soften the overall look.
2. Sherwin-Williams’ Iron Ore 7069
Iron Ore is a deep gray-black with a soft, natural look. It is dark enough to make a statement but has a hint of warmth that keeps it from feeling too harsh. This balance makes it a great choice for those who want a bold color that still feels inviting.
Iron ore works well on homes with classic and modern designs. It blends well with brick, wood, and stone, making it a flexible choice for different architectural styles.
Pair it with warm wood accents or light-colored trim to bring out its best qualities. Dark metal hardware and natural stone pathways also help create a well-rounded design.
3. Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn Black 6258
Tricorn Black is a pure, deep black with no strong undertones. Its bold and clean appearance makes it one of the most popular black paints for exteriors. Its true black tone ensures a crisp, defined look in different lighting conditions.
This shade suits both traditional and modern homes. It looks sharp on large facades and pairs well with white or gray trims. It also holds its depth well in bright sunlight, avoiding the washed-out effect that some dark paints can have.
For a balanced look, Tricorn Black works best with light-colored trims, wooden doors, and simple metal fixtures. It also complements lush greenery and stone walkways.
4. Benjamin Moore’s Onyx 2133-10
Onyx is a warm black with greenish-brown undertones, giving it a softer look. This warmth prevents it from looking too harsh and helps it blend well with natural materials.
This shade is a great choice for homes that want a dark color without strong contrast. It works well on full exteriors, fences, and doors. It also holds up well in both sunny and shaded areas without losing its depth.
Onyx pairs beautifully with wood tones and earthy colors. It works best when combined with natural stone, warm lighting, and neutral trims.
5. Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron 2124-10
Wrought Iron is a dark charcoal-black with a smooth finish. It is slightly softer than pure black, making it a flexible option for different home styles.
This shade is a great fit for homes that want a strong, defined look without the starkness of deep black. It works well with both modern and classic designs, providing depth without feeling too intense.
For the best results, pair it with light or neutral trims. Wrought Iron also complements brick, stone, and wood elements, creating a balanced and natural look.
6. Sherwin-Williams’ Black Magic 6991
Black Magic is a deep black with a rich, smooth texture. Its bold and dramatic finish makes it a great option for those who want a strong exterior presence.
This shade is ideal for modern and minimalist homes. Its deep color works well on large surfaces, helping to define the overall structure of the home. Black Magic also retains its depth well in different lighting conditions.
To create a sharp contrast, pair Black Magic with metallic fixtures, large glass windows, or light-colored landscaping. Wooden doors and stone pathways also help add warmth to its strong tone.
7. Benjamin Moore’s Black Satin 2131-10
Black Satin is a muted black with a soft sheen. Compared to deep, true blacks, it offers a more relaxed feel. This makes it a great choice for those who want a dark exterior without a harsh look.
This shade works well on traditional homes and blends nicely with classic architectural details. It is a great choice for exteriors with wood siding, brick, or detailed trim work.
For a timeless appearance, Black Satin pairs well with white trims, vintage fixtures, and warm-toned outdoor lighting.
8. Sherwin-Williams’ Peppercorn 7674
Peppercorn is a deep charcoal shade with cool blue undertones. It is not as stark as true black but still offers a strong, modern look.
This shade is a great choice for urban homes and contemporary designs. It works well on full exteriors, as well as for accent areas like garage doors and shutters. Its cool tone blends well with steel, glass, and other modern materials.
Peppercorn looks best when paired with sleek metal fixtures, large windows, and concrete features. Lighter trims and neutral-colored landscaping help balance its depth.
9. Benjamin Moore’s Raccoon Fur 2126-20
Raccoon Fur is a dark black with deep brown undertones. This subtle warmth adds a cozy feel while still maintaining the boldness of black.
This shade is a great option for homes with a rustic or cottage-style design. It works well on exteriors with wooden beams, stone accents, or brick details.
To bring out its best features, pair Raccoon Fur with rich wood tones and earthy landscaping. Warm lighting and soft, neutral trims also complement its depth.
10. Sherwin-Williams’ Inkwell 6992
Inkwell is a deep navy black with a slight indigo tint. This hint of color makes it stand out from other black shades, adding depth without feeling too heavy.
This shade is a great choice for coastal homes or exteriors that need a touch of color without going too bold. It works well on both full exteriors and accent areas like shutters or doors.
To complete the look, pair Inkwell with silver or metallic fixtures. Nautical-themed decor and cool-toned trims also enhance its rich, deep tone.
11. Benjamin Moore’s Kendall Charcoal HC-166
Kendall Charcoal is a medium-dark gray with green undertones. It offers a strong, neutral appearance that blends well with different materials.
This shade is a great fit for homes that want a dark color without committing to full black. It works well with brick, wood, and stone, making it a flexible choice for different styles.
For the best contrast, Kendall Charcoal pairs well with both warm and cool-toned trims. Light-colored doors and stone pathways also help create a balanced exterior.
12. Sherwin-Williams’ Iron Ore 7069
Iron Ore is a dark gray-black with a slight metallic sheen. This makes it stand out while still keeping a natural look.
This shade is suitable for modern and industrial-style homes. It complements concrete, steel, and large glass windows, creating a sleek design.
For the best results, pair Iron Ore with neutral trims and natural materials. Concrete elements, stone walkways, and minimalist landscaping help complete the look.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Black Exterior Paint
Black paint can give a home a bold and lasting look, but choosing the right shade requires careful thought. Undertones, lighting, home style, and climate all affect how the color appears and performs over time. Keeping these factors in mind will help you make the best choice.
Undertones and Lighting
Most black paints have undertones like blue, brown, or gray, which change how they look in different lighting. A blue-black shade may feel cooler, while a brown-black gives a warmer appearance.
Lighting affects how black paint appears throughout the day. Bright sunlight can make it look lighter, while shadows deepen its tone. Testing a sample at different times of day can help you see how the color shifts.
Surrounding materials also influence the final look. A black with brown undertones pair well with brick or wood, while a cooler black complements metal and glass elements.
Architectural Style
Your home’s design should guide your choice of black paint. Modern homes look best with deep, true blacks that highlight clean lines.
Traditional homes, such as colonial or farmhouse styles, work well with softer blacks that have brown or charcoal undertones. Rustic homes pair nicely with warmer black shades.
Accent features like doors and trims also affect the look. A black with gray undertones adds depth to a brick home, while a softer black blends well with detailed trim work.
Climate and Maintenance
Black paint absorbs heat, which can be a concern in hot climates. It may cause wood to expand and contract, leading to cracks or fading. In cooler areas, black paint can help retain warmth.
Dirt, dust, and water stains show more on black surfaces. Frequent cleaning may be needed in rainy or dusty regions. Choosing a finish with a slight sheen can help hide imperfections.
For long-lasting results, use high-quality, weather-resistant paint. This helps prevent fading and peeling, keeping your home’s exterior looking fresh for years.
Application Tips
Applying black exterior paint requires careful preparation to achieve a smooth and lasting finish. Factors like lighting, surface condition, and paint quality play a key role in the final result. Taking the right steps before painting will help the color look its best and last longer.
Testing Samples
Always test paint samples on a small section of your home’s exterior before making a final choice. Black paint can look different throughout the day depending on sunlight, shadows, and nearby colors.
Apply samples to different areas of the house, including spots with direct sunlight and shaded areas. This helps you see how the color changes in different conditions.
Observing the samples for a few days ensures you pick the right shade. A color that looks perfect in the morning may seem too light or too dark in the afternoon.
Surface Preparation
A smooth, clean surface helps black paint adhere properly and last longer. Dirt, dust, and old paint can prevent even coverage, leading to a patchy or uneven finish.
Before painting, wash exterior walls thoroughly to remove debris. Scrape off peeling paint and sand rough spots to create a uniform base.
Applying a high-quality primer helps the paint bond well and prevents discoloration. This step is especially important when painting over lighter colors.
Conclusion
Black exterior paint can give a home a bold and timeless look. The right shade enhances architectural details and creates a strong contrast with surrounding elements. Choosing a color that fits your home’s style and environment ensures the best results.
Before selecting a shade, consider undertones, lighting, and climate. Testing samples in different conditions helps you see how the color will appear throughout the day. Proper surface preparation is also key to achieving a smooth and lasting finish.
With the right planning, black paint can transform your home’s exterior and boost its curb appeal. If you prefer a deep, true black or a softer charcoal tone, a well-chosen shade will make your home stand out beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Exterior Paint a Good Choice for All Home Styles?
Yes, black paint can work well on many home styles, from modern to traditional. The key is choosing the right shade and pairing it with complementary trims and accents to match the overall design.
Does Black Exterior Paint Fade Quickly?
Black paint absorbs more sunlight than lighter colors, which can cause fading over time. Choosing high-quality, UV-resistant paint and applying a protective topcoat can help maintain its rich color for longer.
Will Black Paint Make My House Hotter?
Since black absorbs heat, it can make surfaces warmer, especially in sunny climates. Homes in hot regions should consider heat-reflective paints or lighter trims to balance the effect.
How Do I Maintain Black Exterior Paint?
Black paint tends to show dust, dirt, and water stains more easily. Regular cleaning, occasional touch-ups, and using a finish with a slight sheen can help keep it looking fresh.
How Do Undertones Affect Black Paint?
Black paint often has subtle undertones, such as blue, brown, or gray. These undertones influence how the color appears in different lighting conditions and alongside other materials.
What Finishes Work Best for Black Exterior Paint?
Satin and matte finishes are popular for black exteriors. Satin offers slight sheen and durability, while matte provides a softer, more muted appearance.
Should I Test Black Paint Before Applying It?
Yes, testing is crucial. Black paint can look different in various lighting conditions. Apply samples on different sides of your home and observe them throughout the day before making a final choice.
What Colors Go Well with Black Exteriors?
Black pairs well with white, gray, wood tones, and metallic accents. Lighter trims, bold-colored doors, and natural elements can help create a balanced and appealing exterior.