Unless you’re in a deed restricted neighborhood where you must choose a specific roof color, you have many options for your roof replacement. So many in fact, some homeowners get overwhelmed with the options. Here are some tips to help you and your roofing contractor come to the right decision for your roof replacement.
Your Home’s Color and Style
The first place to start is by looking at the colors in your home’s siding or brick. You don’t want to choose a roof color that is the same but rather one that compliments the overall color of your home’s exterior. If your siding is a neutral color, consider a roofing shingle that has a pop of color, conversely if your home’s exterior is multi-colored stone, keep your roof more of a neutral tone. You don’t want the two major visual elements of your home competing with each other.
Because our area has historic homes dating back to the 1800’s, there are many different styles of homes. When you have a historic home, you should choose a roofing color that compliments that home. Newer homes come in many styles as well and different color blends work better with different styles.
Solar Reflectivity
For some homeowners, one of the factors they want to consider is energy efficiency. Shingles are just like any other surface, the darker the color, the more the sun absorbs creating heat. If you are looking for a shingle that may help reduce utility bills, look at lighter shades. If you want one that has been certified by the ENERGY STAR council, choose one that has the ENERGY STAR rating. It will cost you a bit more up front but the savings will eventually pay for the investment.
Whatever you do, don’t rely on the color you see on a website or brochure alone. We also suggest that when your roofing contractor shares actual shingles with you, look at them outside in different light. The shade, morning sun, middle of the day light will all give a different appearance. Hold them up to different elements of your home if you have a home with a combination of brick, stone, and siding.
If you want to get a general idea so you narrow down your selection to a few colors before your roofing contractor brings out samples, ask if the brand you are considering has an online roof visualizer tool. Most major manufactures do and that can help in the selection process.
Cooley Roofing is happy to provide input regarding the right color roof for your home. Call us today for a free estimate at 366-766-6488.
