Choosing Your Paint Colors

Consider Alaska's Light

Anchorage's light is different than the Lower 48. Long summer days with low-angle light, combined with bright winter sun reflecting off snow, can make colors appear differently than they do in color chip samples. Always test colors on your actual home before committing.

Exterior Color Guidelines

For exterior colors, consider your roof color, any stone or brick, and the colors of neighboring homes. Neutral tones tend to hold their value and appeal to the broadest range of buyers if you ever sell.

• Popular: Warm grays, warm whites, navy blue
• Darker colors absorb more heat
• Lighter colors show dirt more easily
• Coordinate body, trim, and accent colors

Interior Color Guidelines

Interior colors affect how a room feels. Lighter colors make spaces feel larger and brighter—especially valuable during Anchorage's dark winters. Warmer tones create a cozy feel; cooler tones feel calm and restful.

• Light neutrals maximize natural light
• Warm whites create a welcoming feel
• Accent walls add depth without commitment
• Test colors in your actual lighting

Sample Before You Commit

Always test paint colors before committing to the full job. Paint a 12x12-inch sample on your actual wall or siding and observe it at different times of day and in different lighting conditions before making a final decision.

Digital Color Tools

Sherwin-Williams offers several free tools to help you visualize colors before painting:

• ColorSnap Visualizer app — upload your home photo
• Sherwin-Williams color collections online
• Virtual house painter tool
• Free color chips from any Sherwin-Williams store

Our Color Consultation

Not sure where to start? During your free estimate, our experienced team can offer color suggestions based on your home's architecture, existing elements, and your personal preferences. We've helped hundreds of Anchorage homeowners find their perfect colors.