How to Choose a Roof Shingle Color

The most common shingle color for a roof is black. Asphalt is naturally black in color and asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for residential roofing. But shingles come in a variety of colors, allowing you to customize your home’s appearance. 

A roof is a large investment in your home. If you’re going to replace your roof or if you’re putting a roof on a newly constructed home, take the time to think about color choices and find something that will give your home a unique look. 

 

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Roof Shingles

Before you choose a roof shingle color, consider the following criteria and prioritize them by importance to you. 

• Energy Efficiency. Traditional black asphalt shingles are designed to reflect sunlight away from your roof. Even so, the darker the color of your roof, the more heat it will collect. In colder climates this can be a benefit, but in warmer climates it is not as energy efficient when it comes to cooling your home. Lighter colors can be beneficial during the hot summer months.

• Homeowners Association Covenants. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, there may be covenants or bylaws that dictate what color shingles you can have on your roof, and even what type of roofing materials you can use. Be sure to check with your HOA before choosing and installing new roof shingles. You may need to submit a sample for approval. 

• Your Siding or Exterior Color. The exterior color of your home may help determine what color roof you should choose. If you are keeping the existing color, be sure to choose a shingle color that will complement it. If your exterior will also be new, choose colors what work well together between your siding and shingles. A home design expert can help you choose colors that will work well together if you are unsure. 

• Budget. Basic black asphalt shingles are typically the most economic choice. But other colors of asphalt shingles are often comparable if they are available. The biggest difference in cost is between asphalt shingles vs other materials. If you’re going with asphalt, you’ll find that most shingles come in a variety of colors at the same price. 

• Real Life Appearance. Take some time to drive or walk around and look at homes with different colored roof shingles. Compare the exterior color and the roof color to determine what combination you like and whether or not it would look good on your home. Try to find homes that are similar in style to your home as well. For example, a shingle color that works for a Dutch colonial home may not work for your modern-style home. 

• Time of Day. Shingle colors look different in varying light. Compare your shingle colors in the morning, at noon, in the afternoon, and even at night. Make sure you still like the color at every time of the day. 

 

Find a Roof Contractor Who Offers a Variety of Options

If you want a variety of colors to choose from when it comes to your new roof shingles, be sure to find a roofing contractor who offers that. Some budget roofing companies may only use the same black asphalt shingles on every home. Ask any roofer before you hire them what color options they can provide. They will likely have a brochure or color samples you can choose from. If you don’t see the color you have in mind, ask them if they can get other options. Don’t be limited by your roofing contractor. 

 

Choose from a Variety of Colors and Styles with Weatherguard Roofing

At Weatherguard Roofing, we understand your desire to express your unique style when it comes to your home, which is why we offer a variety of options for you to choose a roof shingle color that suits your taste. We can discuss the pros and cons of your potential choices to help you decide on the best one. Our design experts can offer you style and color tips as well to ensure you choose an aesthetically pleasing combination. 

Contact us today to schedule a free estimate. We look forward to providing you with a stylish and functional new roof.