Why are Barns Painted Red?

Walking around the green landscape of your nearby farm, have you ever wondered why barns are painted red? If yes, then this blog might be helpful.

Traditionally, barns were painted red. However, with time, new colors have come into play, and in order to add charm to these historical buildings, barn owners are using different colors as well. So, barn painting in Owen Sound, Ontario, today is not restricted to keeping the paint only red.

Historical Overview 

It was believed that in the 18th century, farmers in England had the practice of applying varnish to barn surfaces. This varnish was usually a mixture of linseed oil, iron oxide, or lime, which, when kept for days under the sun, turned red. 

It was also believed that farmers used to add ferrous oxide to the linseed mixture, which acted as rust on the entire building. This so-called rust acts as a poison to mold, moss, and fungi.

All these fungi were known to grow on the barn, deteriorating its surface. Barn repair in Owen Sound, Ontario, is thus an important service that one should look for, making these aesthetic buildings appear new for a long time.

Whether it's wood or metal, these tiny microorganisms aggregate to decay these surfaces extensively, degrading their value.

Other Theories

There are many theories related to why barns were traditionally painted red. According to some theories, the red paint penetrated well into the wooden barns and resisted fading; thus, in order to value these properties for future generations, they were painted red. 

Painting barns needs skills, and our barn painters in Owen Sound, Ontario, are well equipped with the latest painting technology.

New Trends in Barn Painting

After the late 1800’s, the tradition of barns being painted red got a new, reviving touch with a color scheme including colors ranging from bright yellows to dark greens, blues, and more.

Painting these heritages in any color makes them look good. The most important thing is the protection of these properties from harsh weather conditions, fungus, and rot.

What is the best paint for barns? Acrylic latex paints are excellent paints used for wooden barns as they adhere to the surface for a long time. Moreover, they protect the building from sun damage.

Though the traditional red color look on the barn remains popular, shades like gray and white are both classic and modern.

Choose Colors That Stand Out From The Rest

White: This is the most classic color that brings elegance to any surface. From the inside or outside surface of your property, this color leaves a timeless appeal. Thinking scientifically, white reflects sunlight and thus keeps the interiors cool. So, if you are thinking of turning your barn into a residential property, white is a good color to opt for. 

Red: Providing you with barn painting services in Owen Sound, Ontario, is incomplete if we don't talk about the traditional color red. Of course, this color is best chosen for those who still believe in the essence of their tradition and are stuck to their old charm.

Dark Gray: If you want to create a modern aesthetic or give a statement look to your building, nothing is better than a dark gray color. Since this color appears dark, normal wear and tear is not easily visible. So, your barn has looked amazing for years.

Bronze: Is your barn made of wood? If yes, nothing can complement wooden barns like those of bronze color. This appealing color gives a natural color to your building.

In conclusion, the tradition of painting barns red is a fascinating blend of practicality, resourcefulness, and cultural symbolism. Rooted in the cost-effective use of readily available materials, red barns became more than just structures; they symbolized prosperity, tradition, and community togetherness.

Over time, this practice evolved into an enduring tradition, painting the rural landscape with a timeless hue. The red barn stands as a testament to the creativity that originated in the past. It illustrated how necessity and creativity came together to create an iconic symbol of agricultural life.

Today, though there are other colors also available, we admire the red barns that connect dots with a rich history and popularity. Painting barns red speaks of resilience, tradition, and the enduring spirit of those who believed in farms and green landscapes.