Gray exterior paint is one of the most popular choices for homes in 2026. From soft greige to dramatic charcoal, gray offers sophistication and versatility that few colors can match. This guide covers the best gray paint colors for house exteriors, including warm and cool options, light and dark shades, and perfect color combinations.
🎨 Top Gray Exterior Colors
Why Choose Gray for Your Exterior?
Gray house exteriors offer many advantages:
- Broad appeal: Gray is universally liked and great for resale
- Hides dirt: Better than white at concealing dust and pollen
- Versatile: Works with almost any trim, accent, or landscaping
- Modern yet timeless: Won't look dated in 10 years
- Photographs well: Great curb appeal in listings
- Many options: Warm, cool, light, dark — gray has variety
Understanding Gray Undertones
The key to choosing the right gray is understanding undertones:
Warm Grays (Greige)
Have beige, brown, or taupe undertones. Feel welcoming and pair well with earth tones, warm woods, and traditional styles.
Example: SW Agreeable Gray, BM Revere Pewter
Cool Grays
Have blue, green, or purple undertones. Feel modern and crisp. Pair well with white, black, and contemporary styles.
Example: BM Stonington Gray, SW Passive
True Grays
Balanced without strong undertones. The most versatile but harder to find. Work with both warm and cool accents.
Example: SW Repose Gray, BM Gray Owl
Light Gray Exterior Paint Colors
Light gray houses feel airy and welcoming while still offering sophistication:
Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
The most popular greige. Warm, versatile, works with everything. Perfect for traditional and transitional homes.
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter (HC-172)
Designer favorite greige with subtle green undertones. Sophisticated and elegant.
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015)
True gray with minimal undertones. Extremely versatile and widely loved.
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (OC-52)
Soft gray with green undertones. Calming and organic feeling.
Medium Gray Exterior Paint Colors
Medium grays offer more depth and drama while still being approachable:
Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray (HC-168)
Rich, sophisticated medium gray. Perfect for craftsman and traditional homes.
Sherwin-Williams Mindful Gray (SW 7016)
True medium gray without strong undertones. Modern and clean.
Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray (HC-167)
Classic, historical gray. Subtle green undertones. Elegant and refined.
Dark Gray & Charcoal Exterior Colors
Dark gray houses make a bold, modern statement:
Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069)
Best-selling dark gray/charcoal. Warm undertones, extremely popular for modern homes.
Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn (SW 7674)
Sophisticated dark gray with warm undertones. Dramatic but approachable.
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166)
Deep charcoal gray. Rich and moody. Works beautifully with white trim.
Best Gray Exterior Color Combinations
A beautiful gray exterior color scheme includes body, trim, and accents:
Gray + White + Black
Classic and crisp. Gray body, white trim, black accents (door, shutters, hardware).
Charcoal + White + Wood
Modern farmhouse. Dark gray body, warm white trim, natural wood accents.
Greige + Cream + Navy
Classic and warm. Greige body, cream trim, navy door or shutters.
Medium Gray + Crisp White + Black
Bold contrast. Medium gray body, bright white trim, black windows.
How to Choose the Right Gray
Selecting the perfect gray exterior paint:
- Consider your fixed elements: Roof color, brick, stone affect which grays work
- Look at your surroundings: Landscaping, neighboring homes, natural setting
- Decide warm or cool: Match your home's style and other elements
- Test multiple samples: Paint 2x2 foot samples on different walls
- Observe in all light: Morning, noon, evening, cloudy days
- Consider regional climate: Darker colors for cooler areas, lighter for hot
Frequently Asked Questions
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015) is one of the most popular. Other favorites include Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter, SW Agreeable Gray, and SW Iron Ore for darker looks.
Yes! Gray is neutral, timeless, and has broad appeal. It hides dirt better than white, works with most landscaping, and photographs beautifully for curb appeal.
Gray pairs well with: white trim (most popular), black accents, navy blue doors/shutters, warm wood tones, and brick or stone. Bright white creates crisp contrast; creamy white looks softer.
Ready to Paint Your Exterior?
Carolina Renew Painting & Finishes provides expert exterior painting in Charlotte and surrounding areas. We'll help you choose the perfect gray and deliver professional results. Get your free estimate today!
Get Free Estimate 📞 (980) 408-8122