Choosing the right exterior paint color is one of the most transformative things you can do for your home.
Whether you’re aiming to boost curb appeal, refresh a dated facade, or simply give your home a new personality, the color you choose matters—and Sherwin Williams offers some of the most trusted, designer-loved shades on the market.
With thousands of colors to choose from, narrowing it down can feel overwhelming.
That’s why I’ve gathered the 25 most popular Sherwin Williams exterior paint colors that homeowners, designers, and builders consistently turn to.
These shades aren’t just trending—they’re time-tested, versatile, and made to stand up beautifully against the elements.
Sure! Here’s a more likable and conversational version of that section—still informative, but with a friendlier, more engaging tone:
How Long Should Sherwin Williams Exterior Paint Last?
Sherwin Williams exterior paint is built to go the distance—and with the right prep and conditions, it really can.
On average, you can expect it to last about 7 to 10 years, though some homes stretch even further, especially when using one of Sherwin Williams’ premium formulas like Emerald® or Duration®.
Of course, how long it lasts depends on a few key things: your climate, how much sun or moisture your home gets, and how well the surface was prepped before painting.
A good paint job starts long before the first brushstroke—cleaning, sanding, priming, and sealing all help your color stay put for years to come.
If you’re in a harsh environment—say, salty coastal air or scorching desert sun—you might need to refresh your exterior a little sooner.
But if your home lives in a mild, well-shaded area and gets a little TLC every now and then? Your paint could still be going strong a decade later.
What Is the Most Popular Sherwin Williams Exterior Paint Color?
The reigning champion in popularity is Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008).
It’s a warm, creamy white that manages to feel clean without being cold.
Alabaster works beautifully across a wide range of home styles—from modern farmhouses to traditional colonials—and pairs effortlessly with contrasting trim or natural materials like brick and stone.
Its popularity comes from its ability to adapt in different lighting conditions while still offering a soft, welcoming look.
It’s frequently recommended by designers and continues to be one of Sherwin Williams’ top-selling exterior colors.
What Paint Finish Should I Use on the Outside of My House?
For most exterior surfaces, a satin or low-luster finish is the ideal choice. It offers the perfect balance of durability and appearance.
Satin finishes have just enough sheen to resist moisture, dirt, and mildew, which makes them easy to clean—perfect for siding, stucco, and trim.
Flat or matte finishes can be used on large surfaces if you want to hide imperfections, but they’re more porous and can attract dirt over time.
Meanwhile, semi-gloss or gloss finishes are best reserved for accents like doors, shutters, and trim since they highlight details and offer extra protection against the elements.
In summary:
- Satin – Best for siding and general exterior walls
- Flat – Hides flaws but harder to clean
- Semi-gloss/Gloss – Ideal for doors, trim, and architectural details
How Many Colors Should Be in an Exterior Color Palette?
A well-designed exterior typically uses two to three colors in its palette:
- Main body color – The dominant color for siding or large wall areas.
- Trim color – A contrasting or complementary shade for windows, doors, fascia, and edges.
- Accent color – Optional, used for the front door, shutters, or architectural elements to add interest or personality.
Some homes may get away with a single monochromatic look, while others (especially Victorian or craftsman-style homes) can handle four or more colors.
The key is balance—too many colors can feel chaotic, while too few might lack dimension. A thoughtful combination enhances curb appeal and gives the home a polished, cohesive look.
How Do You Choose the Right Paint Colors for Your Exterior?
Choosing the right exterior colors isn’t just about picking your favorite shades—it’s about finding colors that complement your home’s style, setting, and fixed elements (like roofing or stone).
Here are a few helpful steps:
- Consider your home’s architecture: Traditional homes may lean toward classic neutrals or soft whites, while modern homes often look great in bold or moody tones.
- Look at the environment: Choose colors that harmonize with your surroundings—greens and earthy hues for wooded areas, soft blues and beiges for coastal settings, etc.
- Take lighting into account: Natural light can dramatically change how a paint color looks. Test swatches on different sides of your home and observe them throughout the day.
- Match or contrast fixed features: Make sure your paint works with your roof, stone, or brick. Clashing undertones can throw off the entire color scheme.
- Don’t forget the front door: It’s your chance to add personality. Deep blues, classic reds, or even black can make a striking first impression.
- Test Samples: Sampling before committing is key. Paint a few test areas and view them at different times of day—what works on a paint chip may feel very different in full sunlight.
Top 25 Sherwin Williams Exterior Paint Colors
Here are the best paint colors for exteriors from Sherwin Williams.
1. Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)
Alabaster is a soft, creamy white that’s anything but stark. It has just enough warmth to feel welcoming while staying neutral enough to play well with almost any accent color or trim.
Its versatility has made it a go-to for farmhouse exteriors, modern cottages, and transitional homes alike.
With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 82, Alabaster reflects a lot of sunlight, making homes appear bright and fresh without glaring.
It’s particularly stunning on homes with plenty of natural light, as the warm undertone prevents it from looking too sterile or icy in full sun.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Alabaster
2. Sherwin Williams Pure White (SW 7005)
If you’re after a crisp, clean look that doesn’t veer into cold territory, Pure White delivers.
It has a subtle hint of warmth, thanks to a soft yellow undertone that’s almost imperceptible, but helps it feel grounded.
With an LRV of 84, it reflects a great deal of light, which helps homes look bright and sharp even on overcast days.
Pure White is a favorite for modern farmhouses, coastal exteriors, and minimalist designs, especially when paired with black shutters or natural wood tones.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Pure White
Paint Color Samples
Would you like to sample these paint colors? I recommend using Samplize. They offer 12″x12″ peel-and-stick paint swatches that make testing colors super simple. Just stick it on your wall, move it around if needed, and when you’re done—peel it off and toss it. No mess, no cleanup. It’s quick, easy, and way more convenient!
Advantages of using peel and stick paint samples:
- EASY TO USE: Simply move your SAMPLIZE paint sample around the room to test under a variety of lighting conditions.
- AFFORDABLE: Budget-friendly solution and no more buying inaccurate swatches, rollers, wasted paint.
- SUPER FAST DELIVERY: Depending on your location, 1 day delivery is possible.
- ORDER FROM HOME: Save a trip to the store looking for samples.
- NO MESS: SAMPLIZE uses real paint samples with zero-mess
- NO WASTE: No leftover cans or wasted paint.
3. Sherwin Williams Light French Gray (SW 0055)
Elegant and balanced, Light French Gray is a mid-tone gray that leans cool without feeling icy.
It has very subtle blue and purple undertones, which give it a sophisticated depth that works beautifully for traditional, colonial, and even craftsman-style homes.
Its LRV of 53 means it has a medium reflectance—it won’t appear washed out in strong sunlight, but it also won’t feel too heavy on a full façade.
It pairs wonderfully with crisp white trim or black accents for a timeless look.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Light French Gray
4. Sherwin Williams Lazy Gray (SW 6254)
Lazy Gray is a relaxed, airy blue-gray with cool undertones that make it feel serene yet stylish.
This color shines on beach houses, coastal homes, or exteriors that need a dose of softness without being overly pastel.
Its cool nature can pick up slightly more blue in north-facing light or under cloudy skies, but in bright sun, it feels tranquil and polished.
Pair it with white or even navy shutters for a layered monochromatic palette that doesn’t try too hard.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Lazy Gray
5. Sherwin Williams Snowbound (SW 7004)
Snowbound leans cooler than Alabaster or Pure White, making it a great pick for homeowners who want a white exterior with subtle gray undertones.
It has an LRV of 83, which means it reflects plenty of light, but the cooler base helps it stay looking clean and fresh rather than creamy.
Snowbound is often seen on contemporary homes or transitional exteriors with bold black or charcoal trim.
It’s the kind of white that looks modern without being stark.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Snowbound
6. Sherwin Williams Sea Salt (SW 6204)
Although it’s often used inside, Sea Salt has become a surprising favorite for exteriors—especially in coastal or cottage-style homes.
This gentle green-blue chameleon shifts depending on the light. In shaded areas, it leans green; in direct sunlight, it can brighten into a soft, breezy blue.
Its tranquil, weathered quality makes it feel timeless and fresh, perfect for homes surrounded by natural landscaping, water, or lots of greenery.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Sea Salt
7. Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
Accessible Beige is not your grandma’s beige. It’s a warm, taupe-influenced neutral with just enough gray to make it modern.
It sits comfortably between gray and tan, which makes it incredibly adaptable on exteriors.
It doesn’t go pink, it doesn’t go yellow—it just stays balanced.
With an LRV of 58, it doesn’t wash out in sunlight and holds its own next to stone, brick, or dark trim.
It’s ideal for craftsman homes, ranch houses, and traditional styles that want a soft neutral without the drabness of classic beige.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Accessible Beige
8. Sherwin Williams Eider White (SW 7014)
Eider White is a whisper-soft gray with violet undertones that make it unique among light neutrals.
On exteriors, this can give homes a slightly cool, almost frosted appearance in certain lights, but without feeling blue or sterile.
Its LRV of 73 gives it a decent amount of light bounce, helping it stay light and fresh without veering too white.
It works beautifully on modern homes or as a delicate contrast to charcoal or black accents.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Eider White
9. Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
Agreeable Gray is one of Sherwin Williams’ most popular colors overall, and it earns its spot on exterior walls too.
This warm greige has a perfect balance of beige and gray, which makes it incredibly flexible.
On sunny days, it leans a touch more warm, but in shade, the gray tones take over just enough to keep it grounded.
It’s excellent for suburban homes, traditional builds, or even modern farmhouses that want a soft neutral that doesn’t feel cold or impersonal.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Agreeable Gray
10. Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015)
Repose Gray has cooler undertones than Agreeable Gray, with just a whisper of warmth to keep it from going too chilly.
This balance makes it a smart pick for homes that need a modern, slightly moody neutral.
Its LRV is 58, which means it has medium reflectance and holds up well on large surfaces.
Repose Gray looks especially sharp on stucco or siding paired with crisp white trim and black accents.
It works across a wide range of architectural styles—from colonial to modern.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Repose Gray
11. Sherwin Williams Colonnade Gray (SW 7641)
Colonnade Gray is a warm gray that still manages to look clean and contemporary.
It has subtle taupe undertones that make it incredibly versatile on exteriors—especially if you’re trying to match stone, brick, or warm roof tones.
Unlike cooler grays, it doesn’t risk looking blue or purple outside. Instead, it offers a soft, grounded appearance that feels upscale.
It’s ideal for traditional homes or transitional designs that want something timeless but not overdone.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Colonnade Gray
12. Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (SW 6258)
Tricorn Black is bold, dramatic, and sophisticated.
It’s one of Sherwin Williams’ truest blacks—neither warm nor cool, which makes it a go-to for high-contrast modern exteriors, black front doors, or shutters.
Because it doesn’t lean blue or brown, it’s a favorite for those looking for a classic, deep black that doesn’t shift in natural light.
Use it on contemporary homes for a sleek, minimalist look, or contrast it with white siding for that eye-catching, high-contrast farmhouse aesthetic.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Tricorn Black
13. Sherwin Williams Naval (SW 6244)
Naval is a rich, commanding navy blue that feels both timeless and bold.
It leans into its deep blue roots without going overly teal or gray, which makes it an exceptional choice for homeowners who want color without sacrificing sophistication.
With an LRV of just 4, it absorbs a lot of light, making it dramatic and moody—especially striking on exteriors with lots of white trim or brass fixtures.
Naval looks beautiful on Cape Cod homes, craftsman bungalows, or any exterior looking to evoke a nautical or historic elegance.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Naval
14. Sherwin Williams Ellie Gray (SW 7650)
Ellie Gray is a medium-toned gray with a soft, grounded feel.
It sits comfortably in the middle—not too light, not too dark—which makes it a flexible backdrop for a wide range of architectural styles.
It has a slightly warm undertone that keeps it from feeling cold on cloudy days, yet it still reads as a true gray in sunlight.
It pairs effortlessly with crisp whites, charcoals, or natural wood accents and is particularly appealing on ranch homes or modern farmhouses looking for a neutral with substance.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Ellie Gray
15. 26. Sherwin Williams Labradorite (SW 7619)
Labradorite is one of those bold, moody colors that instantly adds depth and drama to a home’s exterior.
It’s a deep, slate-teal blend that toes the line between gray and blue-green—making it a standout choice for homeowners who want something unique but still grounded.
Labradorite is especially popular for craftsman-style homes, mountain cabins, and modern exteriors that benefit from a strong, earthy statement color.
What makes it so appealing is how it shifts throughout the day. In full sun, the bluish-green undertone shines through, adding vibrancy and interest.
On overcast days or in shade, it leans more charcoal with a cool, muted finish—never too bright, never too flat.
It pairs beautifully with crisp white or soft beige trim, and it works just as well with black accents for a more contemporary feel.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Labradorite
16. Sherwin Williams Oyster White (SW 7637)
Oyster White is an understated, soft greige that leans just enough toward warmth to feel inviting.
It’s not a bright white—think of it more like a weathered stone or aged shell.
This makes it a fantastic choice for exteriors that need a gentle, muted neutral that doesn’t scream for attention.
It works especially well in sunny climates where ultra-bright whites might feel harsh.
On exteriors with warm stone or natural elements, Oyster White blends beautifully and holds its elegance year-round.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Oyster White
17. Sherwin Williams Natural Choice (SW 7011)
Natural Choice is a creamy off-white with soft, warm undertones that give it a classic and welcoming appearance.
Its slightly beige base means it doesn’t read too cool or too stark, making it a favorite for traditional exteriors or homes with Mediterranean and Tuscan influences.
With an LRV of 73, it reflects a good amount of light but maintains a soft warmth even in full sun.
This shade pairs effortlessly with terracotta roofs, dark trim, or even black shutters for a timeless look.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Natural Choice
18. Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray (SW 7017)
Dorian Gray strikes that sweet spot between light and mid-tone, delivering a grounded gray with subtle warmth.
Unlike cooler grays, Dorian Gray resists going blue or icy, which makes it more approachable on home exteriors.
It looks particularly appealing on stone or brick homes, offering a refined, elegant vibe that doesn’t feel overly modern.
With an LRV of 39, it reads darker in shade and richer in sunlight, making it dynamic and dimensional across different parts of the home.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Dorian Gray
19. Sherwin Williams Dovetail (SW 7018)
Dovetail is a deep, warm gray with brown and taupe undertones that make it feel substantial and grounding.
It’s often used as an accent color, but on the right house—especially with contrasting trim—it can serve as a stunning main exterior color.
It’s a natural companion to stone, brick, and wood elements, adding depth and weight without reading harsh.
Dovetail has an LRV of 26, so it leans dark, and works beautifully on craftsman homes, Tudor exteriors, or modern renovations.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Dovetail
20. Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (SW 7016)
Mindful Gray is one of those rare shades that works equally well inside and out.
It’s a soft, mid-tone greige that carries a touch of green undertone, which helps it adapt well to the changing light of exteriors.
It’s warm enough to feel inviting but cool enough to look sophisticated.
On home exteriors, it feels calm and balanced—ideal for those who want a neutral with depth but not too much weight.
It looks fantastic paired with white or black trim and is an easy choice for modern or transitional homes.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Mindful Gray
21. Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
Urbane Bronze was named Sherwin Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year for good reason.
It’s a deeply rich, dark brown-gray with earthy undertones that make it feel luxurious and grounded.
As an exterior color, it creates stunning contrast against lighter stone or white trim, and it can even be used as a bold full-body color for dramatic architecture.
With an LRV of 8, it’s very dark, so it’s best used on homes with interesting shapes, large windows, or architectural features that can handle a bolder tone.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Urbane Bronze
22. Sherwin Williams Retreat (SW 6207)
Retreat is a dusty green-gray that brings a quiet, nature-inspired mood to any exterior.
It feels calming and rooted, with just enough gray to keep it feeling modern rather than earthy or rustic.
In cooler light, it leans more gray, while warm sunlight brings out its green character.
It’s a perfect fit for cabins, craftsman homes, or homes surrounded by lots of greenery. Pair it with natural wood, stone, or cream trim to really let it shine.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Retreat
23. Sherwin Williams Pewter Green (SW 6208)
Pewter Green is a rich, deep forest green with a strong gray base that gives it a modern edge.
It’s not bright or overly saturated—think of it as moody and grounding.
With an LRV of 12, it reads dark, but in full sunlight, its green richness really comes forward.
It’s a beautiful choice for cabin-style homes, craftsman exteriors, or those aiming for a deep, organic palette.
It also pairs well with copper fixtures or warm wood elements for a striking contrast.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Pewter Green
24. Sherwin Williams Shoji White (SW 7042)
Shoji White is a soft, warm white with a creamy, almost taupe undertone.
It has more depth than a true white, which allows it to feel cozy and inviting on exteriors without looking yellow or dingy.
It’s particularly lovely on traditional homes, modern farmhouses, or coastal exteriors where a crisp white might feel too stark.
Its subtle warmth complements stonework, brick, or wooden accents with ease, making it one of those quietly beautiful neutrals that grows on you over time.
Get a Peel & Stick paint sample of Shoji White
25. Sherwin Williams Black Fox (SW 7020)
Black Fox is a stunning deep brown-black that adds instant drama and elegance to any home exterior.
It’s warmer and earthier than Tricorn Black, with rich espresso undertones that give it a cozy, almost velvety quality.
Despite its dark nature, Black Fox is incredibly sophisticated and looks phenomenal on modern, craftsman, or even rustic homes with lighter trim or natural wood details.
It’s ideal for those who want a moody, dramatic exterior but with a hint of softness.