The all-black exterior is no longer just for modern architectural masterpieces or moody cabins in the woods. Suburban homeowners are increasingly asking painting contractors for dark, bold facades. At the top of that list is Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black (SW 6258).
Tricorn Black is a true, neutral black. It doesn't have the blue undertones of Naval or the brown undertones of Black Fox. It is simply black. But is painting an entire house Tricorn Black too dark?
Architectural Considerations
The answer depends entirely on the architecture and the environment. A massive, flat-faced colonial painted Tricorn Black can look imposing and blocky. However, on a house with heavy texture (such as board and batten siding, mixed brick, or deep eaves) the black paint emphasizes shadows and architectural depth beautifully.
Practical Warnings for Contractors
There are practical considerations contractors must communicate to homeowners before signing the contract. Dark colors absorb significantly more UV heat than light colors. In southern climates, this can slightly increase cooling costs and may cause the paint to fade faster than a lighter shade. It also shows dust and pollen much faster than a mid-tone gray.
The secret to a successful Tricorn Black exterior is contrast. You must break up the darkness with warm, natural elements. A stained cedar garage door, raw wood columns, or copper gutters are essential to making a Tricorn Black house look high-end rather than haunted.