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As professional painting contractor serving multiple Los Angeles areas like Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, and beyond, I’ve seen it all. We’ve painted homes in every color imaginable, from timeless neutrals to bold, statement-making hues. But there’s one trick homeowners swear by that makes our jobs just a little more complicated—testing paint colors in different lighting. And honestly? While it can slow things down, we get why homeowners love it.
The Trick? Testing Paint Colors in Different Lighting!
I totally understand why homeowners want to be sure they’re picking the right color. Choosing the perfect shade for your interior painting or exterior painting project isn’t just about grabbing a swatch and calling it a day. The way a color looks in the store—or even in a photo—can be drastically different once it’s on your walls under real lighting conditions.
Why Does This Matter?
Ever picked out a color that looked perfect in the store, only to find it looks completely different once it’s on your walls? That’s because lighting plays a huge role in how paint appears. Sunlight, shadows, artificial lighting—all of these factors can change the way a color looks. As a painting contractor, we always recommend testing colors before committing to a full paint job.
How to Use This Trick Like a Pro
Before we even pick up a brush, here’s how you can make sure you’re getting the perfect color:
- Buy Sample Paints – Instead of jumping in with a full gallon, start with small sample sizes of your top choices.
- Test on Multiple Walls – Paint swatches on different walls inside or outside your home to see how the lighting changes throughout the day.
- Observe at Different Times of the Day – The way a color looks in the morning might not be the same by evening.
- Use Larger Swatches – Tiny patches don’t do a color justice. Go big—at least a 12×12-inch test area—to see the full effect.
- Compare with Trim and Flooring – Paint doesn’t exist in a vacuum. How does it look next to your flooring, furniture, or cabinetry?
Why Painters Aren’t Always Fans of This Trick
Look, as professional painting contractors, we love efficiency. Testing multiple colors takes time, and sometimes, homeowners get stuck in indecision mode. But at the end of the day, we want you to LOVE your paint color. It’s much better to take the extra step now than regret your choice later.
Even Commercial Painting Companies in Los Angeles Use This Trick
It’s not just homeowners who test colors—commercial painting companies in Los Angeles do it too! Business owners know that a color might look different in an office versus a storefront with tons of natural light. Taking the time to test ensures the perfect final result.
Ready to Paint? Let’s Do This Right!
If you’re searching for painters near me, we’ve got you covered. Whether you need an interior painting contractor or an exterior painting contractor, team Super Painting Co. is here to bring your vision to life. Let’s find your perfect color—together!
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