Designed specifically for East Bay and San Francisco Bay Area homes, this guide uses James Hardie® ColorPlus® Technology colors that perform well in coastal fog, strong sun exposure, and temperature swings—while protecting long-term curb appeal and resale value. James Hardie siding is especially well suited for Bay Area conditions thanks to its durability, fade resistance, and architectural versatility.

With 28 years of experience, the Custom Exteriors team brings a depth of knowledge that goes far beyond product selection. Since 1997, we’ve helped thousands of Bay Area homeowners confidently choose exterior color combinations that complement their home’s architecture, perform well in local climate conditions, and stand the test of time. Our design guidance is rooted in real-world experience—understanding how colors look in different light, how they age in fog and sun, and how they impact long-term curb appeal and resale value. When you work with Custom Exteriors, you’re not just picking colors from a chart—you’re partnering with a team that knows how to bring those colors to life beautifully and responsibly for your home.

Earth-Inspired Greens (Bay Area Favorite)

This color group is an excellent fit for Craftsman, hillside homes, Modern Farmhouse designs, and custom builds, featuring James Hardie® colors such as Mountain Sage, Aged Pewter, and Night Gray, which carries a subtle green-gray undertone. These shades work especially well in the local environment by complementing surrounding hills, trees, and natural landscaping while delivering an upscale, regionally appropriate look.

They offer long-term appeal without feeling trendy and pair beautifully with wood or stone accents commonly used in Bay Area architecture. To maintain a cohesive and lasting exterior, it’s best to avoid bright or blue-based greens that fall outside the ColorPlus® palette.

Soft Coastal & Fog-Friendly Tones

This color palette is ideal for fog-influenced areas, coastal Bay communities, and Peninsula homes, featuring James Hardie® colors such as Evening Blue, Boothbay Blue, and Gray Slate. These shades perform exceptionally well in fog and filtered light, maintaining a clean, intentional appearance without overpowering the home’s façade.

They introduce subtle color that enhances curb appeal while remaining refined and timeless, and they pair especially well with modern window frames and simple architectural details. For a crisp, balanced finish, these siding colors are best complemented by Arctic White or Pearl Gray trim.

Modern Charcoals (Use Strategically)

This color group is best suited for Modern, Contemporary, and Mid-Century Modern homes, with James Hardie® colors such as Iron Gray, Night Gray, and Gray Slate delivering a bold, architectural look. In the Bay Area, it’s important to consider that darker colors absorb more heat, making proper installation critical to long-term performance.

These deeper tones are most effective when used selectively—such as on accents, second stories, or partial elevations—where they create strong visual contrast without overwhelming the façade. For best results, dark siding colors should always be paired with a properly designed rainscreen system, adequate wall ventilation, and light-colored trim or accents to balance the overall appearance and reduce visual heaviness.