With so many paint colors to choose from, it can be tough to decide between similar shades like Behr campfire ash and silver ash. Both are neutral grays with warm undertones. But there are some key differences that set them apart.
Overview of Behr Campfire Ash
Behr campfire ash is a light to mid-tone gray with a subtle taupe undertone. It’s part of Behr’s Marquee interior paint line. Some of the key features of this color include:
- Light reflectance value (LRV): 50%
- Undertones: Taupe, beige
- Finish: Matte, eggshell, semi-gloss
- Coordinates with: Behr spun wool, accessible beige, gray area
With an LRV of 50%, campfire ash reflects a moderate amount of light. This makes it a good choice for bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and other areas where you want a soft, cozy ambiance. The subtle warm undertones give it a little more visual interest than a straight light gray.
The finish you select will also impact the look and feel of this color. The matte finish will give it a flat, velvety appearance. Eggshell has a soft glow with a very subtle sheen. Semi-gloss has the highest shine.
Overview of Behr Silver Ash
Behr silver ash is also a light gray paint color. But it has a greener, cooler undertone compared to campfire ash. Here are some quick facts about silver ash:
- LRV: 53%
- Undertones: Green-gray
- Finish: Matte, eggshell, semi-gloss
- Coordinates with: Behr arctic gray, basket beige, tradewind
With an LRV of 53%, silver ash reflects a bit more light than campfire ash. It has a crisper, sharper appearance because of its subtle green undertones. This cool shade works well in spaces where you want an airy, bright aesthetic.
Like campfire ash, silver ash is available in matte, eggshell, and semi-gloss sheens from Behr. The finish will affect the look and feel of the color.
Behr Campfire Ash vs Silver Ash
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s compare and contrast these two popular Behr paint colors:
Appearance
While both are light gray paint colors, campfire ash and silver ash have noticeable differences in tone and undertone:
- Campfire ash has a warmer, taupe-like undertone that gives it a soft, inviting look.
- Silver ash has subtle green undertones, lending it a cooler, crisper appearance.
These undertone differences are subtle, but noticeable. Campfire ash is a bit richer because of its beige influence, while silver ash feels brighter and sharper.
Versatility
Despite their differences, campfire ash and silver ash are both fairly versatile neutral colors that can work in many rooms throughout your home:
- Campfire ash works well in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices, and other areas where you want a warm, welcoming vibe.
- Silver ash is also suited to living spaces, though feels a bit crisper. It’s also a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms where you want a light but cool tone.
Both shades can be dressed up or down with your choice of decor. Campfire ash feels a bit more laid-back and cozy, while silver ash has a refined, crisp edge.
Color Pairings
You can pair both campfire ash and silver ash with a wide range of accent colors. But here are some of the best color combinations for each:
- Campfire ash looks great with neutrals like cream, tan, light brown, and taupe. It also pairs nicely with shades like sky blue, sage green, and terra cotta.
- Silver ash complements lighter neutrals like white, ivory, and soft gray. Cooler hues like navy blue, light green, and violet also pop nicely against this gray.
Keep the undertones in mind when selecting accent colors. For campfire ash, stick with warmer tones. For silver ash, cooler colors tend to work best.
Room Suitability
While both can work in a range of spaces, here are some of the rooms these paint colors are best suited for:
- Campfire ash for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices, and libraries.
- Silver ash for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, bedrooms, and basement spaces.
Campfire ash creates a cozier backdrop for unwinding and entertaining. The cooler silver ash feels more airy and bright.
Painting Tips
If you’re ready to paint with campfire ash or silver ash, keep these tips in mind:
- Purchase sample pots to view the colors on your wall before committing. Natural light impacts the look.
- Prime walls before painting and apply two coats for best coverage.
- Use high quality applicator brushes and rollers.
- Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks and color inconsistencies.
- Let the paint fully cure for at least two weeks before cleaning or applying topcoats.
Proper prep and application technique will ensure you achieve the desired look. Both campfire ash and silver ash offer gorgeous light gray color options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does campfire ash or silver ash look lighter?
Silver ash has a slightly higher LRV (light reflective value) of 53% compared to campfire ash which is 50%. This means silver ash will reflect a little more light and feel just a bit brighter.
Can you use campfire ash and silver ash in the same room?
Definitely! Both colors are fairly neutral light grays, so they will complement each other nicely if used in the same space. Try using campfire ash on the walls and silver ash for trim or vice versa.
Which room is campfire ash best suited for?
With its warm, inviting undertone, campfire ash works exceptionally well in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining spaces where you’ll want to encourage relaxation. It’s also fitting for home offices and studies.
Is silver ash suited for kitchens and bathrooms?
Yes! The subtle green undertones of silver ash make it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms where you want a cool, clean-looking gray. Its crisp tone feels airy and bright.
What colors pair well with campfire ash?
Some great color pairings with campfire ash include warm neutrals like cream, beige, tan, and light brown. Sky blue, sage green, and terra cotta also complement its taupe undertone nicely.
What sheen is best for high-traffic areas?
For high-traffic areas like hallways, laundry rooms, and kids’ spaces, a higher sheen finish like eggshell or semi-gloss is best. The subtle shine helps hide scuffs and marks. Matte is too flat and shows imperfections.
Is campfire ash too dark for a nursery?
While not an ultra-light shade, campfire ash has enough lightness with an LRV of 50% to work well in a nursery when paired with lighter accent colors and plenty of lighting. Just add soft neutral or pastel accents.
How does silver ash compare to gray screen?
Silver ash and gray screen are both light grays with green undertones. But silver ash is a bit warmer and brighter while gray screen has a more muted, cooler appearance.
Should I get samples before painting a whole room silver ash?
It’s highly recommended! Silver ash will look different on your wall than on a paint chip or computer screen. Order a few large sample pots in your finish of choice to test it out before committing.
Conclusion
Behr campfire ash and silver ash are beautiful, versatile light gray paint colors that each offer their own unique look. Campfire ash is a bit warmer and richer looking thanks to its taupe undertone. Silver ash has a sharper, cooler vibe with subtle green-gray undertones. Both work great in a wide range of spaces. Just keep the undertones and color complements in mind when choosing between the two.
Paint samples allow you to view them in your lighting before deciding. And be sure to follow proper painting technique for smooth, consistent results you’ll love. Achieving the perfect light gray backdrop is easy with quality paints like Behr campfire ash and silver ash.