Exterior Trim Paint: Top Tips And Inspiration

June 5th, 2025

Painting the exterior trim can have a transformative effect on a house’s exterior, especially if it is looking a little tired. We are here to give you the best finishes, top tips on application and colour inspiration!

Farrow & Ball

Exterior Trim Paint Finishes:

The most essential part of choosing a finish is ensuring the paint will stand up to the elements and provide long lasting protection.

You also need to consider the material the trim is made from and choose a finish that has been specially formulated for this material.

Whether it’s wood, metal or PVC, Brewers have a range of finishes that will be suitable. Get in touch to find the right finish for you!

@ds.preoperty.services.ldn.ltd. Trim in Zinsser Exterior Allcoat Satin.

Top Application Tips:

1. The right time – when decorating outdoors, make sure you’re applying the paint in the right conditions.

Dry, sunny conditions will allow the paint to dry and cure properly without any contaminants or paint failure.

If you’re struggling to find some sunshine, there are several finishes available that are suitable to apply in colder, damper weather.

Ask in store for more details.

@gb.interiors.homedecorating. Trim in Crown Trade Gloss in Brilliant White.

2. Cleaning – ensure the trim is clean before you do anything!

Window and door frames are highly susceptible to dirt and dust so be sure to thoroughly clean with detergent.

If you see mould, use fungicidal wash.

@mjb.decorating.

3. Preparation – if you’re trim is made of wood, you do not need to worry too much about sanding back to bare wood before painting, just make sure to remove any lose or flaky paint before sanding down the surface.

This will provide a good substrate for the paint to adhere to.

Make sure you remove any dust before the next step.

@ds.preoperty.services.ldn.ltd. Trim in Zinsser Exterior Allcoat Satin.

4. Priming – it is always best to prime a new or previously uncoated surface.

If you’re unsure, ask in store for more advice.

@gb.interiors.homedecorating. Trim in Crown Trade Gloss in White.

5. Painting – before you start painting, make sure you read the technical data sheet in full, ensuring the correct application process.

Adhere to recommended coats and make sure the finish has dried in full before applying any subsequent coats.

@mjb.decorating

Exterior Trim Paint Colours:

With so many colours to choose from, where do you start?

Take inspiration from your house’s architecture and exterior colours you can contrast or complement with.

Here are four colours to get you started!

Rosetone 1186 and Huntington Green 406 by Benjamin Moore

1. Black Trim For An Instant Update

Painting your trim in black is right on trend, especially teamed with a white exterior.

The stark contrast gives a real modern feel and can totally transform the exterior of the house if it looks a little dated.

New Black and Capuchin by Paint & Paper Library

2. Green For A Natural Look:

Green is also on trend as we look to ground our homes with colours of nature.

Windmill Lane by Little Greene

Paired with earthy tones, green trim can really pay homage to the environment around you, especially if you have a front lawn filled with greenery.

Green Stone and Pea Green by Little Greene

3. Neutral Tones For A Classic Feel:

Painting your trim in white doesn’t have to be boring! You’d be amazed at how much difference a fresh coat of paint can make, even if you decide to stick with white.

It pairs beautifully with a blue exterior for a classically coastal look.