How to Paint Window Boxes

Choosing the color of a window box may seem like an easy task, but there are many choices you can make that can clash with your home. It's a good idea to pick a color that will feel like it belongs to the home and flow with the surrounding color scheme and architecture. There are almost an unlimited supply of colors to choose from, so how do you know what color fits your home? We list four general rules to follow that will help you select the right window box color so that your home looks natural and the correct features are highlighted. Follow these rules and you won't have to worry about your window box sticking out like a sore thumb in the neighborhood.

1. To match the trim around the window
2. To match the color of the exterior shutters around the window
3. To match the color of your siding or wood shingles
4. A complimentary color if shutters are not already on the window

You rarely want to bring in a third color if you already have shutters and trim around the window of two different colors. Doing this can make your window busy and create a clash of colors on the home. It's a good idea to choose a window box color that matches your architectural style and personality as well. Bright colors will attract people's attention to the window box, but may also make the window box stand out more than the flowers or plants in them. Painting the window box neutral colors shifts the focus elsewhere so that the window box functions as an accent. They can also showcase plants and flowers better.

PVC window boxes are great for holding paint and the paint will not fade or peel. They're an upgrade over wood which has maintenance issues and vinyl which cannot be painted and have a shiny appearance to them. For PVC window boxes, if you decide to paint them, it is recommended that you use an exterior latex paint. Semi-gloss is better for minimizing sun absorption and Sherwin Williams even makes a vinyl safe paint that works well with PVC to do more of the same. Just remember to leave the inside of any window box unpainted no matter what material it's made from. Paint should never be in contact with plant soil or water. The paint chemicals can be harmful to the plants and prevent them from being able to grow or limit them.

Painting window boxes is a great way to make a window box truly feel like it connects with a home. The right color choice completely determines a great natural flow for the look of your home. The choice of color you pick is a direct reflection of your creativity and personality and can shift the focus to the home, window, window box, or even the flowers inside.