How to Choose the Right Exterior Paint in New York City

Painting the outside of your home in New York isn’t just a weekend project — it’s a strategy. Between salty ocean air, humid summers, and icy winters, New York City’s weather has a way of testing the limits of any exterior finish. That’s why choosing the right exterior paint is about more than color. It’s about protection, longevity, and choosing a product that’s up for the challenge.

Here’s what you should know before popping the lid on that first gallon.

Prep Comes First

Even the highest-quality exterior paint won’t do much good if it’s slapped over peeling paint, mildew, or dirt. Prep is where the job either succeeds or fails. Before painting, clean the surface thoroughly, scrape off old paint, sand where needed, and apply a primer that suits your surface type.

Think of it this way: exterior paint is only as strong as what it sticks to.

And in NYC, where homes range from historic brownstones to modern vinyl siding, the right primer and prep method varies. Some exteriors call for oil-based primers, while others work best with newer water-based systems. A trusted exterior paint supplier in New York — like Olson Floor Supply — can help you make the right call based on the material and condition of your home’s surface.

Pick the Right Finish for Your Lifestyle

Exterior paints aren’t one-finish-fits-all. Glossy finishes are easier to clean and offer more moisture resistance, but they also highlight every ding, dent, and imperfection. On the flip side, matte or satin finishes are more forgiving and offer a softer, more subtle appearance.

If you want something right down the middle, a low lustre finish is a solid choice — it’s durable without being overly shiny and works well for most New York homes. When choosing exterior paint, consider how much maintenance you're willing to take on and what finish best complements your home's architectural style.

What’s Trending in NYC Neighborhoods

Color trends are as diverse as the city itself. Neutral tones like charcoal gray, crisp white, navy blue, and taupe are timeless staples, offering a clean, modern look that fits just about any borough — from Queens to the Upper West Side.

But that’s not the whole story.

In parts of Brooklyn, Long Island, and even upstate New York, homeowners are starting to branch out with bolder hues — think deep forest green, earthy terra cotta, and even daring flat black. If you're staying in your home for the long haul, don’t be afraid to inject a little personality into your paint selection. But if you’re thinking about resale in the near future, neutral shades are still the way to go for maximum curb appeal.

Where to Find Great Exterior Paint in New York

The right product makes all the difference — and so does having the right people to help you choose it.

At Olson Floor Supply, we’ve spent years helping homeowners and contractors across New York select exterior paint that stands up to the city’s toughest weather. From Benjamin Moore's premium exterior paints to expert guidance on finishes, colors, and prep, we’re here to make sure your project is a success from start to finish.

Whether you're repainting a Manhattan brownstone, a Queens row house, or a coastal cottage on Long Island, our team has the knowledge — and the products — to help you do it right the first time.

 

The Final Brushstroke

For years, Olson Floor Supply has been the go-to exterior paint supplier New York homeowners, contractors and developers trust. We carry a full line of premium Benjamin Moore exterior paints, along with expert guidance tailored to your specific project — from city brownstones to coastal cottages. Whether you're tackling a full exterior repaint or touching up trim, we're here to help you get it done right the first time — saving you time, money, and headaches along the way.

Stop by our showroom in Jamaica Queens or contact us to get personalized advice and everything you need to give your home a fresh new face.

Contact Us Today!