What To Consider When Choosing A Roofing Shingles Color
Choosing the Right Roofing Shingles Color is an Important Decision
Your roof is an important visual element of your home's exterior, and choosing the right roofing shingles color can ensure your home looks beautiful. Today, homeowners have many shingle choices, from charcoal blacks and rich stately grays to mixed reds and browns. With so many options, you might wonder how to make the best choice for your home.
While aesthetics are important, your roof shingles' color affects more than just your exterior design aesthetic. Your roof shingle choice can also affect the temperature in your home. A recent US Department of Agriculture study found that black-painted roofs, or dark shingles, held temperature for significantly longer than lighter-colored roofs. Interestingly, the study also found little difference between gray and brown tones.
In this article, we look at some things to consider when choosing your roof shingles color, including its location, design considerations, and architecture.
First Step: Consider Your Neighborhood
Before exploring the many choices and options available, if you live in a neighborhood with a Homeowners Association (HOA), make sure there are no restrictions on colors and materials. Look at your other homes to see what styles work well in your neighborhood. Or, consider making a statement with a different color to stand out!
Be aware that the insurance company may also have guidelines for which colors and materials are allowed on homes to prevent any issues when filing a claim for hail damage or any other problems that can affect your roof.
Single Color or a Color Blend?
Today, there are many different color combinations to choose from that feature grays, blacks, blues, reds, browns, and tans. If your home features intricate stone or brickwork, choosing a matte, single0-color shingle will complement your home. On the other hand, if your home is covered in neutral beige vinyl, choosing an exciting visual mix of red, gray, and brown can make it stand out.
You also want to consider any accents in your home. For example, copper rain gutters or a copper window awning can complement your new roof. Just make sure you choose a color that works with your siding and compliments any embellishments.
Different Color Choices
Here is a guide to some popular color choices to consider when choosing your roof shingles color:
Dark Brown – Dark brown provides a warm look for your home's exterior. This color is also commonly used in the Southwest since it offers some protection from intense sunlight.
Light Brown – Light brown offers a more subtle look than dark brown. This color is popular with older homes and for homes in the Midwest since it provides some protection from harsh weather. Keep in mind that lighter-colored shingles are generally not as durable and may need replacement more often.
Dark Gray – A popular choice for homeowners who want a sophisticated and elegant look. This color is often used in modern-style homes as they provide a subtle, stylistic design aesthetic. Dark gray shingles are great for homes in Minnesota since they can provide protection from hot summers and cold winters.
Light Gray – Light gray shingles are another popular choice. They provide more of a subtle and muted look than their darker counterparts.
Beige – If you live in a milder climate, beige shingles offer a warm, natural look. You will often see beige shingles on homes near a lake or beach since they sport a sunny and inviting look.
Green Shingles – If you want to add some color, green shingles are a great choice. This color is also popular in coastal areas since it creates a subtle, calming vibe. Green shingles also offer protection from harsh weather conditions like intense sun and heavy rains.
Energy Efficient Choices
Where you live in the country can play a role in choosing the perfect roof shingles color. As a general rule, lighter shades reflect light more efficiently. In a warmer or more temperate year-round climate, lighter shingles are better. Alternately here in Minnesota, with mild summers and cold winters, a darker color might be a better choice. Darker colors absorb more energy and heat from the sun and may also keep your home warmer in winter.
Certain materials like metal or terra cotta can provide more insulation than asphalt shingles, meaning you may save some money on energy costs. While asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable options, they might not last as long as other materials when exposed to harsh weather and temperature extremes. Materials like ceramic, slate, and metal are more durable but can also cost significantly more.
Ask your roofing professional about options - like “cool roofing” materials which can lower the temperature in your attic by 20-40 degrees. This can reduce energy usage by keeping your home cooler in summer, lower your electricity bills, and improve the longevity of your roofing materials.
The Takeaway on Roof Shingle Color Choice
Choosing the right roof shingles color can improve the aesthetic look of your home exterior, highlight its architectural style, and even lower energy costs. If you are still unsure what color works for you, speak with your roofing contractor. They can outline your options and help you make a selection that looks great and is designed to maximize your home's functionality.
If you need a new roof and live in Waseca, Freeborn, or the neighboring Counties in Southern Minnesota, call Rooftop Solutions. (507) 400-7663. With 50+ Five-Star Google Reviews, we are not your typical fly-by-night, subcontract-it-out roofing contractor. We can help you determine the extent of roof damage, handle your insurance claim, and safely repair or replace your roof with the latest roofing technology. Let us help you understand your roof shingles color and materials options and safely replace your roof with the latest roofing materials that are energy-efficient, durable, and look beautiful!