If you’re looking for the best black exterior paint colors, you’ve come to the right place. We will discuss the most beautiful black exterior paint colors from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. These paints can be used on any surface, whether wood, metal, or masonry. So if you’re thinking about painting your house black, read on for some inspiration!
Black exterior paint colors are the best way to add a bold, modern look to traditional homes. They give a sleek and sophisticated feel, creating an attractive contrast against natural elements such as stone or wood. Plus, black is an excellent choice for homes in all climates since it doesn’t easily show dirt or fade from sunlight.
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Our Picks for Best Black Exterior Paint Colors
Whether you’re looking for a classic black or a modern shade, these best black exterior paint colors will make your house look amazing. Let’s take a look at the best black paint exterior paint colors from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore:
1. Soot (2129-20) by Benjamin Moore
Soot (2129-20) by Benjamin Moore is excellent for home exteriors. With an LRV of 6.19, this dark color provides an edgy look when viewed close up and still enables distant views that are both inviting and sophisticated.
Soot is considered a cool black with slight blue undertones. A pop of colors, such as a bright front door or pastel front porch decor, would complement this dark shade of black.
2. Iron Ore (7069) by Sherwin-Williams
Iron Ore is a gorgeous black exterior house paint color that adds major sophistication to the home. Its LRV is a 6, making it the perfect color to give a modern look to any architectural design.
Iron Ore has a dark gray hue that looks particularly striking when paired with a lighter trim color or dark wood-stained shutters. Adding iron ore to your home exterior will make a statement without overloading the eyes.
3. Onyx (2133-10) by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore Onyx (2133-10) is a bold color choice perfect for adding personality to all home styles. With an LRV 4.99, this dark black shade certainly stands out from the crowd and provides a dramatic finish to any home or building.
It’s also great to emphasize other design elements, like bold shutter colors or bright siding. Your neighbors won’t be able to look away!
4. Tricorn Black (6258) by Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (6258) is the perfect dark hue for your exterior. This color will make any home look elegant and easy on the eyes.
Despite having an LRV of 3, the shade is not overpowering – it’s pleasantly refined and provides just the right amount of depth to dark exteriors without being too stark.
5. Graphite (1603) by Benjamin Moore
Graphite (1603) by Benjamin Moore is the perfect exterior house color to make a bold statement. This shade of black has an LRV 7.59 and conveys a powerful message of sophistication and modernity, making it an ideal choice for black exterior color schemes.
While Graphite’s darkness highlights intricate detail by itself, dark stained wood exterior accents will take the beauty of this black exterior paint color even further!
6. Black Magic (6991) by Sherwin-Williams
Black Magic (6991) by Sherwin-Williams is a stunning black exterior house paint that provides an upscale atmosphere. It has a deep, sleek black color that will give any modern farmhouse an exterior look of luxury and sophistication.
Black Magic has an LRV of 3. When paired with lush green landscapes and natural wood farmhouse doors, black magic are wonderful additions to give your home a luxurious yet traditional wow factor.
7. Raccoon Fur (2126-20) by Benjamin Moore
Raccoon Fur (2126-20) by Benjamin Moore is an ideal exterior black paint. Its sophisticated cool undertones and LRV of 8.28 work perfectly to contrast the bright white paint color of exterior trim or even a wood garage door for a more rustic feel.
8. Greenblack (6994) by Sherwin-Williams
Greenblack (6994) by Sherwin-Williams is the black paint of your exterior design dreams. This black paint enables you to bring a sleek and modern look to your home – think black windows, black shutters, and black columns – all with this one statement color.
Greenblack has an LRV rating of 4. The cool black hue and slight green undertones make it an excellent choice for black exterior color and a great option to carry inside the home as an accent wall for the dining room, living room, or even master bedroom.
9. Black Satin (2131-10) by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s Black Satin (2131-10) is the perfect hue of black to liven up any dull exterior. With an LRV value of 4.48, this rich neutral black is one of the best exterior black paint colors. Its deep luster and dark blue undertones make it an excellent option for black exterior paint for wood siding.
10. Inkwell (6992) by Sherwin-Williams
Inkwell (6992) by Sherwin-Williams is a great individualistic black color choice for any home exterior. It has an LRV of 4 and creates a dramatic, alluring charm with its dark black finish that stands out from the crowd.
It’s perfect for entire exteriors or exteriors accent walls. When paired with a bright white trim color, Inkwell makes the ideal median between modern and traditional.
11. Kendall Charcoal (HC-166) by Benjamin Moore
Kendall Charcoal (HC-166) by Benjamin Moore is one of the best black exterior paint colors for those wanting a lighter exterior color while staying in a black color palette. It has an LRV of 14.61, making it the perfect eye-catching yet subtle black exterior paint.
Kendall Charcoal looks excellent when paired with soft pastels and powerful primary colors. You can also find other uses around the house; Kendall Charcoal looks great when used to spruce up kitchen cabinets or furniture pieces.
12. Wrought Iron (2124-10) by Benjamin Moore
Wrought Iron (2124-10) by Benjamin Moore is the perfect soft black exterior house paint to give your home a subtle and elegant flair. Its deep gray and blue undertones add depth and dimension to any home style while remaining true to traditional elements.
Wrought Iron has an LRV 8.17. While this exterior paint color is a dark shade, it may appear lighter when viewed in direct sunlight, like other dark gray paint colors.
13. Caviar (6990) by Sherwin-Williams
Caviar (6990) by Sherwin-Williams is one of the best black colors to compare to true black paint. With an LRV 3, this deep cool neutral can provide gorgeous depth to any home’s exterior.
Caviar pairs beautifully with bright or even neutral pops of color, such as bright porch decor, white trim, wood doors, or wood window frames.
14. Black Forest Green (HC-187) by Benjamin Moore
Black Forest Green (HC-187) by Benjamin Moore is perfect for adding elegant appeal to your home’s exterior. Its deep hue can perfectly balance a modern and traditional exterior look.
Black Forest Green has an LRV of 4.85 and gorgeous undertones of dark green. If you’re on the fence about a full black exterior, Black Forest Green is the best black paint color for exterior trim.
15. Polo Blue (2062-10) by Benjamin Moore
If you’re looking for a genuinely unique exterior paint, Benjamin Moore’s Polo Blue (2062-10) will turn heads and make your house stand out. The navy blue exterior house color is almost black, perfect if you want a dark, beautiful finish for your home’s exterior.
It works particularly well on historic homes that need a hint of modernity; the deep blue has an LRV of 5.67 and is unique but still respects the classic silhouettes of older buildings. It will make your house stand out, whether used in an accent wall or as the main color. It works well with natural wood elements and neutral colors like cream and beige.
16. Witching Hour (2120-30) by Benjamin Moore
Witching Hour (2120-30) by Benjamin Moore is the perfect black exterior house paint to take your home to the next level. The color has a muted, deep black hue but not absolute black. It has an LRV of 8.71 that will draw eyes and make a bold statement.
With its classic black shade that makes every other hue pop, Witching Hour gives depth and a dramatic statement to any home setting. The exceptional finish provides resistance against corrosion and fading, so you can rest assured knowing your future selfies in front of the house will look perfect!
17. Black Panther (2125-10) by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s Black Panther (2125-10) black exterior house paint has an LRV 6.51 and is one of the best black paint colors. Black Panther is the right shade of black paint for anyone looking to make a timeless statement on the exterior of their home.
A classic favorite, Black Panther, will add stylish sophistication and make any outdoor space look richer and more fully realized. With Black Panther (2125-10), you can get the perfect shade for your exterior that will last for many years.
18. Deep River (1582) by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s Deep River 1582 is an exterior paint perfect for black siding due to its dark hue and uncompromising durability. It has a 7.82 LRV, so it’s a perfect shade that looks wonderful against black windows and trims.
According to Mitchell David, Founder of Beach Life Premier Team, although categorized as a dark deep gray, Deep River by Benjamin Moore shows an undertone of beautiful forest green. The deep river shade helps a house blend in with nature realistically and increases home value for its exclusiveness.
If the black trim isn’t quite your speed, pairing Deep River 1582 with BM Chantilly Lace can produce a winning combination of styles for any home.
19. Cyberspace (7076) by Sherwin-Williams
At first glance, Cyberspace (7076) by Sherwin-Williams may appear to be a bold gray exterior house color, but it’s much more than that. With an LRV of 6, this cool charcoal black adds some hue to your home’s exterior without going too crazy.
20. Iron Mountain (2134-30) by Benjamin Moore
Iron Mountain 2134-30 by Benjamin Moore is the perfect dark exterior paint color if you’re looking for a brown tone with serious character. The charcoal gray has subtle brown undertones with an LRV of 10.96 that gives this earthy tone depth and elegance, creating an impression of luxury that stands out in modern homes.
It pairs wonderfully with dark reds and blues and lighter neutrals like off-whites or light gray tones to contrast exterior color schemes. Whether you’re looking to update an existing dark exterior or design an entirely new one, Iron Mountain 2134-30 is an ideal choice.
21. Black Fox (7020) by Sherwin-Williams
Black Fox (7020) from Sherwin-Williams is the perfect black neutral for adding darker colors to their exterior walls. It has an LRV of 7 with wonderful warm greige undertones that help create dynamic displays that stand out in any setting.
Whether updating your home’s architecture or fixing up an old schoolhouse, this shade will make a lasting impression on any onlookers. When it comes to dark exterior colors, Black Fox (7020) from Sherwin-Williams should be your go-to!
What to Consider When Selecting Black Exterior Paint Colors
Undoubtedly, black exterior paint colors make a lasting impression on dark exteriors. However, before you select your color, it’s important to consider various elements, such as architectural style, seasonality, and gardening details.
The last thing you want is for the dark hue to clash with outdoor elements. Look at several paint samples until you find one that best fits the house style, setting, and season. Black houses look beautiful in winter against a blanket of snow or navy skies but may look heavy or dark during other times of the year.
Consider how the shade will appear with your home’s architectural details in daylight and at night when illuminated by outdoor lights. Test samples next to your landscaping — specific plants – for a well-coordinated look.
Chenise Bhimull, an Interior Designer and Realtor with ZFC told us when painting the exterior of a house with a dark color such as black, it’s important to consider how much light your home will get. Dark colors can make a house look smaller and cause it to overheat in direct sunlight. To ensure your home looks its best, consider the amount of natural and artificial light it receives.
Buyers tend to prefer lighter paint colors for the exterior of homes. Light colors can help make a home look more inviting and bring out the architectural details of the structure. That being said, dark colors can be a great choice for certain homes and neighborhoods where the homeowner or future buyer wants to make a statement.
Dark colors may have a slightly negative effect on the resale value of a house, as the bold look may put some buyers off. However, for certain neighborhoods or styles of homes, a dark color could positively affect the resale value, as it can make the home stand out from others in the area.
When selecting an exterior paint color for a home, it’s important to consider the surrounding environment and neighborhood. Other homes in the area try to find a color that complements them while still being unique. I would also suggest considering the color of your roof and other exterior elements, such as siding, windows, and doors. This will help create a cohesive look and tie the entire exterior design together.
The Popularity of Black Exterior Paint Colors
Black can often be seen as a mysterious, sophisticated color. Black exterior paint colors have become increasingly popular among homeowners in recent years. Whether to add a sleek and modern touch to their homes or make a statement, people are turning to black for the perfect look.
The Versatility of Black
Black is a versatile color and can be used in many different ways. It pairs well with almost any other color, from bright blues and vibrant reds to warm oranges and yellows. The possibilities are endless!
Black has an eternal quality that makes it timeless – you won’t have to worry about your home going out of style anytime soon. This versatility also allows homeowners to choose from an array of accent colors that stand out against the black backdrop. From there, they can create an eye-catching effect that will draw attention to their house while still looking sophisticated and stylish.
The Modern Touch
Black is also associated with modernity and luxury – which many homeowners strive for in their homes. Applying black paint on the exterior of your house can give it an instant facelift and make it look more expensive than it is.
It also gives off a contemporary vibe that will make your home look right off the pages of a home design magazine! Not only will this give your home some added curb appeal, but it will also increase its market value should you decide to sell down the line.
The Benefits of Black Exterior Paint Colors
One of the biggest benefits of using black exterior paint colors is that they require minimal maintenance and upkeep compared to other colors like white or pastel shades (which require regular power washing).
If you’re worried about fading or discoloration over time, don’t be! Most high-quality paints today are designed for long-term durability, meaning your once vibrant hue won’t soon dull!
How to Choose the Perfect Black Paint Color for Your Exterior Home
Whether you’re painting your home for the first time or giving it a much-needed refresh, picking the right color is key. Choosing a black paint color that will look good on your home’s exterior can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.
Think About Your Surroundings
Consider its surroundings when selecting an exterior black paint color for your home.
If your house is in a wooded area with many trees and other natural elements, you may choose a softer black paint color with gray undertones. It helps the house blend in better with its surroundings and creates a more natural aesthetic.
If your house is situated in a more urban environment with buildings nearby, opt for a darker shade of black that stands out from its surroundings.
Be Mindful of Lighting
Lighting is vital in how your paint color will appear on your home’s exterior walls. Make sure to consider how much natural light hits each side of the house throughout the day and what kind of outdoor lighting you have around it, such as porch lights or landscaping lights.
If there isn’t much natural light hitting certain areas of your home during different times of day, then opt for a lighter shade of black so that those areas are still visible even at night.
Think About Your Roof Color
Your roof color should also be considered when selecting an exterior black paint color for your home. A dark roof will make any dark wall colors appear even darker, while a light-colored roof will make dark wall colors pop even more depending on how much sunlight hits them during the day.
If you plan on keeping the same roof color when painting, consider this when choosing which shade of black works best with it so that all elements are balanced and look cohesive.
The Pros and Cons of Black Exterior Paint Colors
Deciding what color to paint the exterior of your home can be daunting. While black paint colors may seem like an easy way to make a bold statement and create a mysterious atmosphere, there are several disadvantages that you should consider before choosing black as your house’s exterior hue. Let’s examine some pros and cons of using black exterior paint colors.
The Pros
- Black is both elegant and timeless. It can add sophistication to any property, whether traditional or modern.
- It also works well with other colors by adding accent pieces in other shades for contrast.
- It’s best for hiding imperfections on the exterior surfaces, such as dirt, cracks in the stucco, or peeling paint.
The Cons
- Black can absorb heat from the sun more easily than lighter colors. A poorly well-insulated house can be hotter in direct sunlight, which could lead to higher cooling bills during the summer months.
- According to Andre Kazimierski at Improovy, dark colors tend to fade faster due to UV rays from the sun, so you may have to repaint sooner than you would with lighter colors.
- Black isn’t for everyone, and if you’re selling your home soon, it may deter a large segment of potential buyers.
Do Black Exterior Paint Colors Make Your House Hotter
The consensus is that choosing darker colors for the exterior of your house will increase the temperature. While this can be true, it does not mean that painting your house black means you’ll have an oven-like situation on your hands; there are many other factors to consider.
Lighter colors are better for a beach house because they absorb less energy from the sunlight, causing them to heat up faster, but light colors also reflect more of the sun’s heat away from the house.
Dark colors absorb more energy but keep some heat inside, benefiting climates with frigid winters.
Other than paint color, other factors like window quality, insulation, and roof color also play a role in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. Fortunately, you don’t necessarily have to choose between fashion and function when choosing exterior colors for your home — pay attention to all the influencing factors and make informed decisions.
FAQs About Black Exterior Paint Colors
What is the best black paint for the exterior?
Some of the best black exterior paint colors are Sherwin Williams: Greenblack (SW 6994), Black Magic (SW 6991), and Tricorn Black (SW 6258).
Is black a good exterior paint color?
The answer depends on your personal preference. Black exteriors are popular, so it’s a great choice from an aesthetic standpoint. It can help accentuate architectural details and the surrounding landscape.
What is the blackest black exterior paint?
A true black would have a light reflectance value (LRV) of 0. Some black exterior paint colors with the lowest LRV ratings are Black Magic (SW 6991), Caviar (SW 6990), and Tricorn Black (SW 625. All have an LRV of 3.
