When you choose a color for your home’s exterior, the impact goes far beyond aesthetics; it can actually help you save on energy bills and stay comfortable all year round. Opt for lighter colors that reflect sunlight, which can keep your home cooler and lessen the load on your air conditioning during hot summer months. Plus, when you use high-quality, heat-reflective paint, you’re also protecting your home from sun damage and fading. In this guide, Paint Boise shares some of the best energy-efficient paints and easy tips for choosing a shade that’s smart and stylish.
How Paint Color Affects Energy Efficiency
Picking the right paint color for your house can help keep your place cooler, cut down on energy bills, and protect the outside of your house, too. Here’s how it works:
- Light shades like white, beige, or pale gray reflect sunlight and help keep your home cooler. Darker colors absorb more heat, which can make your home warmer in the summer and increase energy use.
- LRV stands for light reflectance value and measures how much light a color reflects, on a scale from 0 to 100. Higher LRV colors reflect more sunlight and heat, making them more energy efficient.
- When your home’s exterior reflects sunlight, it stays cooler naturally. That means your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard, saving you money on energy bills.
- Many paints today are made with reflective pigments that reflect UV and heat rays away from your home. These energy-efficient paints are perfect for sunny areas like Boise, helping your home stay cooler and your paint last longer.
What to Look for in Energy-Efficient Exterior Paint
To make your home truly energy efficient, you’ll want exterior paint that reflects heat, resists fading, and protects your home’s surface from the elements. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for energy-efficient exterior paint.
High LRV Ratings
Choose colors with a high Light Reflectance Value (LRV), ideally 55 or above. These paints reflect more sunlight and heat, keeping your home’s exterior cooler while reducing fading and UV damage.
UV and Infrared Reflective Technology
Exterior paints that reflect UV and infrared (IR) light use special pigments and technologies. These paints keep surfaces cooler by reflecting harmful UV rays and the heat from IR light. They help improve energy efficiency and extend the life of your paint.
High-Quality Paint Formulation
High-quality acrylic paint is durable and flexible, while ceramic-infused formulas add extra insulation and reflectivity. Both offer strong protection and help improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Energy Star or Cool Roof Rating Council Certifications
Paints certified by Energy Star or the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) are tested for their ability to reflect heat and reduce energy use. Choosing certified products ensures you’re getting proven performance.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Energy-efficient paint should also stand up to Boise’s weather, from sun exposure to rain and cold. Long-lasting paints prevent fading, cracking, and premature wear, ensuring sustained reflectivity over time.
Best Energy-Efficient Paint Colors to Choose From
Now that you know what makes paint energy efficient, it’s time to choose the right color. Check out these great energy-efficient paint colors you might want to consider.
Cool White
With a high LRV, Cool White reflects the most sunlight, keeping your home cooler and reducing energy costs. Its clean, timeless look works well with both modern and traditional styles.
Soft Beige / Warm Taupe
These earth-toned neutrals (LRV 60-70) pair beautifully with stone or brick. They create a welcoming, natural look while still reflecting heat effectively.
Pale Blue / Sky Blue
Reflective and calming, these shades (LRV 65-75) are perfect for coastal or Mediterranean-style homes. They offer a fresh, airy feel without absorbing excess heat.
Sage Green / Dusty Olive
Earthy greens that fall between LRV values of 55-65 complement your landscaping. They give your home a relaxed, balanced vibe while keeping it comfy.
Light Gray
Light Gray (LRV 60-70) offers a modern, sophisticated appearance. It’s a cooler alternative to white, with less glare and easier maintenance for contemporary homes.
Cream / Off-White
Slightly warmer than white, cream, and off-white tones reflect sunlight well while softening brightness. They complement traditional, craftsman, and Mediterranean-style exteriors.
Soft Peach / Light Terra Cotta
Warm, inviting, and reflective, these shades are ideal for southwestern, desert, or Spanish-style homes. They combine energy efficiency with a cozy, sun-washed aesthetic.
Tips for Choosing the Right Energy-Efficient Color for Your Home
Check out these tips for picking an exterior color that keeps your house looking great while helping to reduce heat and save on energy costs.
Consider Your Climate Zone
Boise can get pretty hot in the summer and cooler in the winter, so lighter colors are great for reflecting heat and keeping your home comfy throughout the year. In chillier places, mid-tone colors can also help strike a nice balance for comfort.
HOA or Local Regulations
Some neighborhoods have rules about exterior paint colors. Verify HOA or city regulations before you commit to avoid compliance issues or costly repainting.
Test Patches
Make sure to try out small test patches in different spots around your house. The natural light changes during the day, and that can totally change how a color looks.
Additional Ways to Improve Exterior Energy Efficiency
You can improve your home’s energy in other ways besides picking the right paint:
- Use Insulating or Ceramic-Enhanced Paints: These specialized paints add thermal protection and reflect more heat, keeping your home cooler.
- Combine with Other Reflective Features: Combine some energy-saving paint with reflective roofing materials or window treatments to reduce heat.
- Upgrade Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation in walls and attics, along with good ventilation, improves overall energy performance and comfort.
- Keep Exterior Surfaces Clean and Maintained: Dirt and grime reduce a paint’s reflectivity. Regular cleaning helps your paint reflect sunlight better and last longer.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an energy-efficient exterior paint color isn’t just about looks; it helps keep your home cooler, lowers your energy bills, and protects your exterior for years. Light, reflective colors with high LRV values work best, and quality energy-efficient paints last longer and perform better.
Want to refresh your home with a stylish, energy-efficient look? Paint Boise can help! We offer expert interior and exterior painting services that combine beauty, durability, and efficiency. Contact us today to get started!
