Matching Historical Paint Colors: Tips for Preservation and Renovation

Have you ever wondered how to match the original paint colors in your historic home? You've spent years restoring the crown molding, refinishing the hardwood floors, and repairing original windows, but getting the paint just right stumps you. Historical paint colors matter when it comes to preservation and renovation. The shades on the walls visually tie the whole look of a historic home together and help maintain its character. If you get the colors wrong, the result looks inauthentic and disjointed. The good news is with some sleuthing and the latest technology you can uncover and recreate the original tones that graced your home's walls decades or even centuries ago. Read on to unlock the secrets of matching historical paint colors.

Understanding the History of Paint Colors

To accurately match historical paint colors, you first need to understand the history of pigments and dyes used at the time. In the 18th and 19th centuries, options were limited to natural pigments from plants, animals and minerals. Reds came from insects, lead and mercury oxides. Yellows were made of lead, arsenic and chrome. Blues were rare and expensive, coming from lapis lazuli and azurite.

These pigments produced dull, muted colors that were often unstable and faded over time. As new synthetic pigments were introduced in the mid-19th century, the color palette expanded. Emerald green, cobalt blue and chrome orange offered brighter, cheaper alternatives. By the turn of the 20th century, a rainbow of new colors emerged like alizarin crimson, cadmium yellow and ultramarine.

With this in mind, look for paint chips and remnants of the original historic colors in your home. Compare them to color catalogs from the time period to determine an exact match. Be aware that many pigments have changed or are no longer used due to toxicity, so modern paint formulations may differ. Test your color choices in an inconspicuous area first.

For the most authentic restoration, use traditional paint types like milk paint, limewash or egg tempera which have natural binders. Avoid modern latex and enamel paints. Brush application also provides an historical finish versus spraying. Finally, consider the sheen - most period homes used flat, satin or eggshell paint. Glossier finishes came into vogue in the mid-20th century.

With some sleuthing into the history of paint and patience in color matching, you'll get the details just right for a historically sensitive renovation. The results will give you a glimpse into the past and highlight the unique character of your vintage home.

Researching Original Paint Colors in Your Home

To match historical paint colors as accurately as possible in your renovation, you'll need to do some detective work. Start by checking areas that haven't been painted over like closets, the attic, basement or garage. You may find clues to the original wall colors there.

Look for any paint chips that have fallen onto the floor or windowsills. They can provide a sample of the actual color used. Check behind electrical outlet covers or switch plates, or pry off baseboards and trim to see what's underneath. You might uncover untouched paint that's still in good shape.

Examine the exterior of your home for colors that may have been used inside as well. Look for any remaining original architectural details like doors, windows, staircases or fireplace mantels that could point to period-appropriate shades.

Once you have samples, take them to your local paint or hardware store to have them scanned and matched to modern paint colors. Be sure to get samples of those to double check the accuracy. Sometimes a custom mix may be needed to achieve an exact replica of the original color.

If all else fails, you'll need to do research on popular paint colors from the era when your home was built. Historical societies, preservation organizations, and sites like Benjamin Moore's Historical Colors collection are all great resources to help determine appropriate choices. With a little legwork, you'll be well on your way to an authentic restoration.

Common Historic Paint Colors and Their Meanings

Colonial Williamsburg colors

Colonial Williamsburg was instrumental in reviving interest in historic paint colors. Their research into period paints revealed colors like red ochre, mustard yellow, and forest green. These earthy tones were inexpensive and locally-sourced, perfect for the 18th century.

Red ochre

A rich, rusty red made of iron oxide, red ochre was a common color for doors, shutters and other exterior trim. It symbolized warmth, vitality and prosperity. Today, you'll see it on historic restorations to capture the colonial spirit.

Mustard yellow

Mustard yellow paint featured yellow ochre, a natural clay pigment. This sunny shade was popular for walls in colonial kitchens, dining rooms and staircases. It represented warmth, light and hospitality.

Forest green

A deep, verdant green, forest green paint often contained copper and iron. It was frequently used in entrance halls, libraries and bed chambers. The lush, organic color brought a sense of the outdoors inside and signified growth, renewal and nature.

Changing tastes

Paint colors followed the trends of each era. During the Victorian age, bolder hues like olive green, maroon and navy gained favor. The early 20th century saw pastel pinks, seafoam greens and sky blues emerge. Understanding the colors and their meanings in context gives a glimpse into the ideals and lifestyle of our ancestors.

When restoring a historic home, do research into paint samples, color theories, and pigments available during the period of your home. Matching the original colors and sheens will result in an authentic renovation that maintains the integrity of the structure. With a little sleuthing, you can uncover the color stories hidden within the walls of your historic abode.

Tools for Identifying and Matching Historical Paint Colors

To accurately match historical paint colors for your renovation project, several tools can help identify original colors and find modern matches.

Microscopy

Using high-powered microscopes, you can analyze paint chip samples from your home to determine the pigments and dyes used, which provides clues to the original color. Specialized preservation companies offer this service.

Paint archeology

Carefully scraping and sanding away layers of paint in an inconspicuous area may reveal the original color coat. You can then use color matching tools to find a modern version of that shade. Be very careful not to damage the underlying surface.

Color matching tools

companies like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, and Farrow & Ball produce historic collections based on period-appropriate colors from different eras. They also offer color matching services to create custom blends. With a paint chip sample, they can scan and match the color digitally, then provide you with a list of equivalent paint colors in their collections.

Color reference books

Many books showcase historic paint colors along with RGB, HEX, and CMYK codes to help you find digital matches or custom blend a shade. Some recommended references include:

-Historic Paints & Finishes by David W. Look (2018)

-American Historic Preservation: Reference Guide to Historic Paint Colors by Kay D. Weeks (2016)

-Architectural Painting Specification Manual by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

Digital color tools

Websites like EasyRGB, HEXcolorr, and ColorHexa allow you to enter RGB, HEX, CMYK or other color code values to view digital swatches and find commercial paint matches. Some also have libraries of historic color palettes to explore.

With a combination of on-site investigation, professional analysis, color tools, and reference materials, you can identify an appropriate historic paint color for your renovation project. Matching the original shade will help maintain the historic accuracy and character of your home.

Tips for Selecting Period-Appropriate Paint Colors

Matching the original paint colors used in a historical building can be challenging, but also rewarding. Here are some tips to help you select period-appropriate paint colors for your preservation or renovation project:

Look for Documentation

Check any records, photos, or physical evidence of the original colors that still exist. Old paint chips, layers of paint on trim or baseboards, or notes on building plans can all provide clues. Talk to historians familiar with buildings from that era and location.

Study Color Palettes of the Period

Research popular paint colors, palettes, and color combinations used during the time of your building's construction. Many major paint companies offer historical collections based on time period. Look for authentic reproductions of colors from companies that specialize in historical paints and pigments.

Consider the Building's Style and Use

The building's architectural style and original use can also inform appropriate color choices. For example, Arts & Crafts bungalows often used earthy, natural tones, while Art Deco buildings featured bolder colors like red, black and gold. Residential homes tended towards warmer, more decorative colors than industrial or commercial buildings.

Test Your Options

Once you've narrowed down options, purchase sample pots of your top choices and test them on areas of the building to view the colors in the actual lighting conditions. Let the samples sit for a few days so you can see how they look at different times of day before making your final selection.

Think About Trim and Accent Colors

Don't forget to choose complementary colors for trim, doors, shutters, and other accents. Contrasting or coordinating shades for trim can help highlight architectural details. Look for colors within the same historical palette to maintain a period-appropriate look.

With some detective work and an eye for historical accuracy, you can select paint colors that preserve the character and heritage of your building. The end result will showcase its unique history and style.

Best Practices for Preserving Original Paint Finishes

The best way to preserve original paint finishes is to maintain them properly. Avoid scraping, sanding or painting over original finishes whenever possible. Regular inspections, cleaning and minor repairs are key.

Perform routine inspections of the paint's condition. Look for signs of damage or deterioration like cracking, flaking, or water damage. Catching issues early is critical.

Gently clean surfaces using soft brushes and damp, lint-free cloths to remove loose dirt and debris. For stubborn grime, you can use specialized conservation-grade cleaners, but test in an inconspicuous area first. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners and strong solvents which can damage the paint.

Make necessary minor repairs to cracks, holes or water damage using special reversible conservation techniques and materials. Consult an expert for guidance. Patching and touch up should match the original paint in color, texture and application.

Control environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and UV exposure which accelerate paint degradation. Use protective glazing, films or shutters when possible. Maintain moderate and consistent conditions.

Limit direct physical contact and handling of painted surfaces. Oils and acids from bare hands can damage paint over time. Gloves should be worn, especially when cleaning or performing any necessary repairs.

Consider protective coatings to shield vulnerable painted surfaces. Reversible varnishes, waxes and lacquers can be applied by professionals to protect original paint finishes while still allowing them to be restored in the future. They require reapplication every few years to remain effective.

Following these best practices for preserving and protecting original painted finishes will help ensure they endure for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, original paint on historical structures can be enjoyed by generations to follow.

Integrating Modern and Historical Colors

Integrating modern and historical colors in your renovation project requires careful consideration. You want to honor the history while still making the space livable for today. The following tips can help you find the right balance.

Do your research

Study photos of what the building looked like originally. Note the color schemes and palettes used in each era of construction or remodel. Look for paint chips or remnants that provide actual samples of the historical colors. Many historic sites offer resources for matching period paint colors.

Choose a focal point

Select one architectural element, room, or section of the building to highlight with historically accurate colors. This could be the foyer, a staircase, fireplace, or exterior trim. Use modern colors for the remaining areas. The contrast will make the historical colors pop.

Complementary combos

Combine modern and historical colors in the same space for visual cohesion. Look to color theory for harmonious pairings. Warm rustic reds can complement cool slate grays. Buttery yellows work with forest greens. Pale blues complement tans and browns. Groupings of three analogous colors also provide harmony.

Tints and shades

Use lighter tints or darker shades of the historical colors for a cohesive look. For example, choose a deep red historical color, then use a pink tint for a modern accent wall or burgundy for the woodwork. This provides continuity while still creating contrast.

Update with accents

Inject modernity into a historical space using accents like decorative accessories, lighting fixtures, window treatments, art, and flooring. Keep the historical architecture and main walls in period colors, but update the space with contemporary accents. This fusion of old and new creates an eclectic look.

With careful selection of complementary colors and strategic use of accents, you can integrate modern and historical palettes for a renovation that honors the past yet meets today’s needs. The result is a space that comes alive with visual interest, warmth and depth.

Hiring Professional Paint Analysis and Matching Services

When it comes to matching historical paint colors for preservation and renovation projects, hiring a professional paint analysis and matching service can help ensure accuracy and save you time. These experts have the knowledge and tools to identify original paint colors used in a home and recreate custom color matches.

On-Site Paint Analysis

A professional will come to your location to analyze the paint colors currently on walls, trim, ceilings and exterior surfaces. Using specialized equipment, they can detect layers of paint and uncover the original colors used. They will then create a custom color palette based on their findings so you can get the closest matches possible for your renovation.

Custom Color Matching

Once the original colors have been determined through analysis, a professional colorist can create customized matches to those historical shades. They have access to a wider range of paint pigments and tints to recreate colors from any era. They can also adjust the color formula to account for aging and patination over time so your new paint job looks period-appropriate.

Save Time and Guesswork

Trying to match historical paint colors yourself requires a lot of time, testing and guesswork. Professionals have the skills and resources to efficiently and accurately identify and recreate colors from the past. Hiring an expert service eliminates the frustration of attempting multiple color samples and coats to get the right match. They have the tools and experience to get it right the first time.

Consultation and Recommendations

A professional colorist can also provide recommendations for the best application methods, paint types and brands to use based on your specific project and needs. They can suggest complementary accent colors and help you develop an overall color scheme that is historically sensitive. Their guidance will help ensure your renovation is authentic and esthetically cohesive.

For any historical preservation or renovation project, hiring a professional paint analysis and matching service is worth the investment. Their expertise will save you time, money and lead to results that are historically and visually accurate. With the right colors and finishes, your home will regain its original charm and character.

FAQ on Matching Historical Paint Colors for Preservation and Renovation

So you want to match historical paint colors for your preservation or renovation project. Excellent! Accuracy and authenticity are so important. Here are some tips to help you on your quest:

Do your research

Learn as much as you can about the time period and location of your building. Study photos of similar structures from the era. See if you can find original color samples or records from previous paint jobs. All of this will help determine an appropriate color palette.

Consider location and use

Colors were often chosen based on the room’s purpose or architectural elements. Pantry and kitchen walls were sometimes painted in lead or ochre-based yellows, while dining rooms may have featured rich reds. Trim and doors were frequently grained to imitate wood. Think about how the space was originally used.

Visit local historic sites

If possible, visit nearby historic homes or landmarks featuring architecture from the same time period. Notice the wall and trim colors. Even if they’ve been restored, the colors were likely chosen to match the time period. The curators and preservationists may be able to provide insights into their process for selecting colors.

Test samples

Get color samples from companies specializing in historic paint colors. Paint large swatches of your top choices in the actual room. View them at different times of day in natural lighting. Live with them for a while as you narrow down your favorites.

Consider sheen

Most interiors from the 18th or 19th centuries featured flat or eggshell paint. Glossy finishes did not become popular until the early 1900s. For the most authentic look, choose a paint with little or no sheen.

Protect your work

Once you’ve put in all the effort to choose the perfect historical colors, preserve them for the future. Limit direct sunlight exposure which can cause fading. Use coasters, placemats and table pads to avoid scratches and stains. Touch up any damage to avoid needing a total repaint.

Your patience and diligence in following these tips will result in a historically-sensitive color palette you’ll appreciate for years to come. With the right colors, you’ll feel transported back in time! Best of luck with your project.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, some tips for matching those historical hues in your home renovation or restoration project. While it may seem daunting, with some sleuthing and patience you can uncover the original colors and either match them exactly or choose a period-appropriate shade. The results will be well worth the effort. Your space will be transformed, giving you a glimpse into the past but with all the comforts of today. And you'll have the satisfaction of preserving history and maintaining the integrity of your historic home. So grab your magnifying glass, get out your paint chips, and happy hunting! The perfect color combination is out there waiting to be discovered.