Our Review of Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams
By: Claire
This just might be the year for a bold move. Embrace some excitement and try on an almost-black exterior for size. When choosing an exterior paint color, something stormy might seem too intense. Here at brick&batten, we’ve seen black exteriors in action, which is why we’ve decided to write this review of Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams.
Black is back, and it’s making bold statements on home exteriors this year. Making a big change can be scary, though, which is why brick&batten is here to help. Our team of virtual exterior designers can create a completely customized exterior design with a black-centric color palette sure to please.
Better than Black
Going with a bold, true black for your home’s exterior can be too stark. Slightly softer (but still deliciously dark) shades like Sherwin Williams’ Iron Ore are popular choices for home exteriors. Their intensity is softened by lighter tints that lend a more natural feeling, which is preferred for home exteriors.
With a Light Reflectance Value of 6, this is a dark, dark color. In fact, to the naked eye against bright whites, it takes on a true black appearance. When paired with natural elements, it can pick up brown tones, but it is a true charcoal color.
Embrace the Dark Side
If you’ve dabbled with accent walls, dark trim, or even a bold black door, it might be time to make the jump to an all-black exterior. Rich charcoal shades like Iron Ore can create a sense of drama from the curb. Plus, deep, shadowy colors can emphasize a home’s various textures and levels. When you’re ready to dial up the drama, we’ve gathered a few charcoal paint options below to help you make your statement.
We always recommend sampling and testing paint colors before committing. Factors such as natural lighting, undertones, and your property’s fixed elements will have a significant impact on how a color will appear on your exterior. Our friends at Samplize offer extra-large 9 x 14.75-inch peel-and-stick paint samples of the colors we love for exteriors. Order your ‘Real Paint, No Mess’ samples from Samplize here.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore: A Soft Black
Iron Ore is a popular choice for home exteriors because its an easy way to make a big impact. This true charcoal color has almost no undertones, so it works well with cool or warm accents, and it really pops against crisp white and neutral tones.
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron: An Iron Ore Alternative
If your brand loyalty is with Benjamin Moore, you don’t have to give up your dreams of a dark black look. Benjamin Moore makes an almost identical hue to Iron Ore called Wrought Iron. It’s the tiniest bit lighter than Iron Ore on the LRV scale, but to the naked eye, the shades are almost indistinguishable.
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black: A True Black
Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams is one of the richest, truest black paints on the market. While it can look great on its own either as a home exterior or as an accent on white or neutral homes, it can also look great when paired with other blacks. Because of its truly neutral base, it can cozy up to lighter grays for added drama. For a monochromatic textured look, try pairing an Iron Ore exterior with trim and doors in Tricorn Black.
The Bottom Line on Iron Ore Paint by Sherwin Williams
No matter the style of home, brick&batten’s virtual designers have found a place for Iron Ore in just about any home exterior design. This versatile shade is both timeless and modern, and its softness gives off a welcoming air. While this paint can make a dramatic statement indoors, Iron Ore is one of our favorite colors for exterior designs for making elements really pop. When you’re ready to see how a few coats of charcoal paint can boost your curb appeal, reach out to the virtual exterior design team at brick&batten to start your design consultation.
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