An Expert Guide For Home Decor
If you’re looking to give your home a touch of vintage charm, using a perfectly matched old paint colour can make all the difference.
The Challenge Of Matching Old Paint Colours
One of the biggest challenges in restoring an old home is matching the paint colours that were originally used.
With time and exposure to the elements, the colours of old homes often fade and change, making it difficult to determine what the original colour was.
However, with a little bit of research and some expert advice, you can find the perfect shade to match your old paint.
- Fading and discolouration: Over time, exposure to sunlight and the elements can cause paint colours to fade and change, making it difficult to determine the original colour.
- Lack of records: In many cases, there may not be any records or documentation of the original paint colours used in an old home, making it difficult to determine the correct shade.
- Matching technology limitations: Paint-matching technology, such as apps or spectrophotometer devices, may not always provide accurate colour matches, especially for older paint samples that have degraded or changed over time.
- Surface preparation: Surface preparation is crucial to getting an accurate colour match, as the existing paint must be in good condition and free of contaminants for the new paint to adhere properly.
- Environmental factors: The lighting conditions in a home, such as the amount of natural light and the colour of surrounding surfaces, can impact the appearance of the paint colour, making it difficult to achieve a perfect match.
- Paint technology advancements: Over time, paint technology and formulas have evolved, making it difficult to match old paint colours using modern paint products.
- Lack of expertise: Without a proper understanding of colour theory, paint chemistry, and restoration techniques, it can be challenging to achieve a perfect match for old paint colours.
Finding The Perfect Old Paint Color
One of the best ways to match an old paint colour is to use a paint sample from an area that is hidden from view, such as the back of a closet or behind a piece of furniture.This sample can be taken to a paint store where they can analyze the colour and create a custom match.
You can also use a paint-matching app, which will allow you to take a picture of the sample and receive a colour match within seconds.
Pitfalls Of Using Paint-matching With Your Phone
- Inaccurate matches: Paint-matching apps rely on algorithms and color matching technology, which can sometimes lead to inaccurate or unsatisfactory color matches.
- Limitations with older paint samples: Paint-matching apps may struggle to accurately match older paint samples that have degraded or changed over time, resulting in incorrect color matches.
- Limited color options: Some paint-matching apps only provide a limited selection of color options, which may not include the exact shade needed to match an old paint color.
- Dependence on smartphone camera: The accuracy of a paint-matching app also depends on the quality of the smartphone camera used to take the picture of the paint sample. Poor lighting conditions, glare, and other factors can negatively impact the color match.
- Lack of expertise: Paint-matching apps do not provide expert advice or recommendations for surface preparation, paint products, and application techniques, which can impact the final result of a paint project.
- Inconsistency with physical paint samples: The colour of a paint sample can look different on a computer screen or smartphone display compared to a physical paint sample, leading to inconsistencies and disappointment when the paint is applied.
- Unreliable colour matching: Paint-matching apps do not take into account the lighting conditions in a home, the type of paint used in the original coating, and other important factors that can impact the appearance of a paint colour, leading to unreliable colour matching.
Another way to find the perfect old paint colour is to consult a professional.
Benefits Of Consulting An Expert Painter For Matching Old Paint Colours
Expertise – Professional painters have years of experience and expertise in colour matching, paint chemistry, and restoration techniques, ensuring accurate and satisfactory colour matches for old paint colours.
- Attention to detail: Professional painters pay close attention to detail, including the lighting conditions in a home, the surface preparation, and the type of paint used in the original coating, to ensure the best possible match for old paint colors.
- Quality materials: Professional painters have access to high-quality paint products and equipment, ensuring that the final result is of the highest standard and will last for many years to come.
- Personalized advice: Professional painters can provide personalized advice and recommendations for your specific project, taking into account your personal preferences, budget, and timeline.
- Save time and effort: Hiring a professional painter saves you time and effort, as they handle all aspects of the project, from surface preparation to final touch-ups.
- Peace of mind: Consulting a professional painter gives you peace of mind, knowing that your paint project is in good hands and that the final result will meet your expectations.
- Increased property value: Restoring old paint colors to their original condition can increase the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment in the long term.
On The Final Note
Consulting a professional painter offers numerous benefits including:
- Expertise and attention to detail, quality material experience and personalized advice.
- Time, effort savings and peace of mind.
- Increased property value.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences, but a professional painter can provide the best possible outcome for your old paint colour matching project.
Photo Credit: Benjamin Moore
