Deep green or navy could help a little, but honestly, the difference isn’t huge compared to black when it comes to soaking up heat. I went with a forest green on my window trim a couple summers ago—mostly because I was tired of the all-black trend and wanted something that popped but didn’t scream “look at me!” It does look sharp, especially with brick, but those windows still get pretty toasty by mid-afternoon. Not as bad as the neighbor’s jet-black trim, but not exactly “cool” either.
If you’re thinking about repainting just for a couple degrees, I’d probably hold off unless you’re itching for a new look anyway. The labor and cost are kind of a pain if you’re just chasing a small temperature drop. I tried reflective film on the inside instead (the kind you can peel off if you don’t like it), and that actually made more of a difference than changing paint color. Not glamorous, but hey, it works.
Funny thing—my aunt did her trim in this bold teal thinking it would be cooler. She loves how it looks, but she swears her living room is still an oven in July. I think once you go dark-ish, the heat’s just part of the deal.
If you do end up repainting, might be worth looking into lighter shades (like cream or pale gray), though I get that it’s not as dramatic. Sometimes style wins over comfort... until August rolls around and you’re regretting your choices with every utility bill.
If you’re thinking about repainting just for a couple degrees, I’d probably hold off unless you’re itching for a new look anyway.
I’ve tested both dark green and navy on south-facing trim, and honestly, yeah, the heat difference is barely noticeable compared to black. If you’re after energy savings, reflective film or even cellular shades inside make a bigger dent in the afternoon heat. Paint’s more of a style thing at this point. If you do go bold, just prep the surface really well—especially if you’re switching from black to something lighter, or vice versa. Otherwise, you’ll end up with flaking or uneven color after a season or two. Learned that one the hard way...
Paint’s more of a style thing at this point. If you do go bold, just prep the surface really well—especially if you’re switching from black to something lighter, or vice versa.
Totally agree on prep being key. I tried going from faded brown to a deep blue last summer, and skipping primer in spots was a mistake... weird streaks where the old color bled through. If anyone’s dealing with older wood trim like mine (1940s house), it’s worth sanding down to bare wood and using a bonding primer. The extra work up front saves a ton of headaches later. Noticed the same as you on heat—barely any difference unless you’re going super light.
Funny timing—just did a bold green on my window trim this spring. I was stubborn and thought I could get away without sanding all the way down, but the old oil-based paint underneath ended up giving me grief. A few spots chipped right away... lesson learned. I will say, though, the pop of color is worth it. Makes the whole room feel fresher, even if it took a bit more elbow grease than I planned.