How To: Pick Roof Color
Choosing a roof color can be exciting, but it can be overwhelming at times. With so many options available, it’s a big decision to choose a color that enhances your home styles and value. Here are some helpful tips to guide you selecting the roof color that best suits your home.
Think ABOUT COLOR contrast
Think about how colors work together when choosing your roof color. Darker shades can make the home more grounded, solid, secure, giving it a sense of permanence and strength. On the other hand, lighter colors can make smaller homes appears larger visually expanding its size.
Beyond the size and visual, weight, contrasting colors also affect how your home interacts with its surroundings. For example, a roof color that harmonizes - or intentionally contrasts - with siding, trim, and landscaping can enhance curb appeal creating a striking, cohesive look.
When choosing between metal and shingle roofing, keep in mind that the material can affect how the color is perceived. Metal roofs typically have a smoother surface and have a reflective finish, which makes the colors appear brighter and more vibrant in the sunlight. Depending on if it has a matte, satin, or gloss finish the same shade can dramatically change throughout the day.
On the other hand, asphalt shingles have texture and they often feature a blending protective surface. This can create a softer and eye-catching look. Colors of the shingles tend to appear muter and more natural because of the blended tones to help break harsh lighting and shadows.
Color Samples
Another option you can do is ask for color samples for shingle and metal panels. We provide free color samples and the majority of the time our representative will have the color samples with him when he visits you for the initial appointment. If not, we can always schedule a follow up day for us to swing by and drop off the color samples.
Seeing the colors in person gives you an idea of what each color looks like in natural lighting and a better understanding of what you want your roof to look like and how well the colors go with your home. If you live in a neighborhood, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood, you want your roof to enhance your home while still blending in well with the surrounding properties. Also take into consideration HOAs- Often times, they will have color restrictions, so be sure to double check with them first before deciding a roof color.
Climate
Climate plays a huge part in choosing a color that many homeowners might not think about right away, but it can make a big difference in how your roof performs. Choosing the right color isn’t just for the looks but also is how your roof functions in your environment.
For hotter climate areas, choose a lighter roof color such as Dove White, Frostone Grey, or Oyster Shell (see image below #41-39 respectively) Lighter colors reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, which can help keep your home cooler and improve energy efficiency.
If you prefer something with a little more color, shades in the blue or green family are a great option—they still reflect more sunlight than darker tones while adding vibrancy and curb appeal.
For colder climates, it’s the opposite. Darker colors like #1 Matte Black, #6 Charcoal Grey, or #13 Driftwood in the image below absorb more heat from the sun, which can help with snow melt and provide a slight boost in warmth during colder months.
Have Fun with it
Choosing the color of the roof doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can actually be really fun and the most exciting parts of the project. Whether you’re choosing shingles or metal, this is your chance to enhance your home’s personality and polish the exterior. Don’t be afraid to enjoy the process and choose a color that feels truly you.