Selecting the right brick color for your home is a crucial decision. The color of your brick can significantly impact your home's curb appeal, overall aesthetics, and even its value. However, choosing the perfect brick color can be challenging, and homeowners often make common mistakes that can lead to regrets down the road. In this blog, we'll explore the top five mistakes homeowners make when selecting brick colors and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed choice. At Magnolia Brick, with locations in Tupelo, MS, and Oxford, MS, we're dedicated to assisting homeowners in creating beautiful and enduring exteriors.
Mistake 1: Ignoring Existing Elements
One of the most common mistakes is selecting a brick color in isolation, without considering the existing elements of your home's exterior. This can lead to a mismatch between the brick and other materials such as roofing, siding, trim, or landscaping.
Solution: Take an inventory of the existing colors and materials on your home's exterior. Consider the color of your roof, siding, and any other prominent features. Your brick choice should complement these elements rather than clash with them.
Mistake 2: Neglecting the Surroundings
Homeowners often forget to take into account the natural surroundings of their property when choosing brick colors. The environment, such as trees, foliage, and neighboring houses, can greatly influence how a brick color appears in different lighting conditions.
Solution: Evaluate your property's surroundings and how they change throughout the day. Consider the seasonality and how sunlight affects the appearance of your brick. It's essential to choose a brick color that harmonizes with both your immediate landscape and the broader neighborhood.
Mistake 3: Not Testing Samples
Selecting a brick color based solely on pictures or swatches can be misleading. Colors may appear differently in different lighting conditions and settings, making it essential to view physical samples.
Solution: Obtain brick samples and place them in various areas around your home. Observe how the colors change with natural light, shade, and during different times of the day. This hands-on approach will help you make a more accurate choice.
Mistake 4: Disregarding Architectural Style
The architectural style of your home plays a significant role in determining which brick colors are most suitable. Some homeowners make the mistake of choosing a brick color that clashes with the style of their house.
Solution: Familiarize yourself with the architectural style of your home, whether it's colonial, contemporary, Victorian, or another style. Research the typical brick color palettes associated with your architectural style, and use them as a guide for your selection.
Mistake 5: Ignoring Personal Preference
While considering external factors is crucial, homeowners sometimes disregard their personal preferences. It's essential to choose a brick color that resonates with your taste and style.
Solution: Balance external considerations with your personal preferences. Remember that you'll be living in your home and should feel comfortable and happy with your choice. Explore different shades within the range that complements your surroundings and architectural style.
Bonus Tip: Seek Professional Advice
Choosing the right brick color is a significant decision, and it's perfectly reasonable to seek professional guidance. Architects, designers, or experienced brick suppliers can offer valuable insights and help you navigate the selection process.
Brick Color Options
Now that we've discussed common mistakes, let's explore some popular brick color options and the effects they can create:
1. Red Brick
Pros: Classic and timeless, red bricks provide warmth and charm to a variety of architectural styles. They blend well with traditional and colonial homes.
Cons: The intensity of red brick can vary, so be sure to choose a shade that complements your home's surroundings.
2. Brown Brick
Pros: Brown bricks offer a rich and earthy appearance, making them an excellent choice for homes set in natural landscapes. They also pair well with wood accents.
Cons: Brown bricks can sometimes appear dull if not complemented by other colors or materials.
3. Gray Brick
Pros: Gray bricks exude a modern and sophisticated vibe. They work well with contemporary architecture and can provide a sleek, minimalist look.
Cons: Gray bricks may not suit traditional or rustic homes, and they can appear stark in certain settings.
4. White or Cream Brick
Pros: White or cream bricks create a clean and elegant facade. They reflect light beautifully and can make your home appear larger.
Cons: White or cream bricks may require more maintenance to keep them looking pristine, as dirt and stains are more noticeable on lighter surfaces.
5. Multi-Color Brick
Pros: Multi-color bricks combine various shades to create a unique and visually interesting appearance. They add depth and character to your home's exterior.
Cons: The complexity of multi-color bricks may require careful consideration of surrounding colors and materials to ensure a cohesive look.
Conclusion
Choosing the right brick color for your home is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. Avoiding common mistakes, such as ignoring existing elements, neglecting surroundings, not testing samples, disregarding architectural style, and ignoring personal preference, is essential to make an informed choice. Remember that seeking professional advice and exploring different brick color options can also help you find the perfect match for your home. At Magnolia Brick, we're here to assist you in selecting the ideal brick colors for your projects in Tupelo, MS, and Oxford, MS.
