Your roof covers about 40% of your home’s exterior. That makes roof shingle colors one of the biggest factors in your home’s overall look. The right asphalt shingles can make your house stand out for the right reasons, but the wrong choice could hurt your home’s value. However, choosing roof shingles isn’t only about selecting a color you like. This guide highlights everything you should know to pick the perfect asphalt shingle for your residential roof.
Why Shingle Color Matters
Your roof shingles’ colors greatly affect curb appeal and energy costs. Light-colored asphalt shingles reflect heat and can lower cooling bills in hot climates. Dark shingles absorb heat, which can help melt snow faster in cold areas. The color you choose also affects your home’s resale value. Neutral colors like gray, brown, and black appeal to more buyers. Bold or unusual colors might limit your buyer pool when it’s time to sell.
Your shingle choice also affects roof maintenance needs. Light colors often hide dirt, moss, and wear better than dark ones.
Guide for Finding the Right Shingle
Rely on roofing experts to help you choose the right asphalt roofing shingles for your home, considering factors such as:
Match Your Home’s Architectural Style
Different home styles work better with certain asphalt shingle colors. Here’s what works best:
- Colonial and Traditional Homes – These classic styles look great with neutral colors. Gray, brown, and black asphalt shingles are safe choices. They complement the clean lines and symmetry of these designs.
- Victorian and Historic Homes – These homes can handle bolder colors. Deep greens, blues, and even red shingles may highlight the ornate details and character of vintage architecture.
- Modern and Contemporary Homes – Clean, simple designs work well with sleek colors. Black, charcoal, or cool gray asphalt roof shingles enhance the minimalist look.
- Ranch and Craftsman Homes – Earth tones work best here. Brown, tan, and warm gray shingles complement the natural materials often used in these styles.
Complement Exterior Colors and Materials
Your roof shingles must work with your home’s existing colors and materials. Ways to create harmony include:
- Brick Homes – Red brick pairs well with gray or brown asphalt shingles. Avoid red roof shingles that might clash. For cream or tan brick, consider brown or charcoal options.
- Stone Exteriors – Natural stone works well with most colors. Gray asphalt roof shingles are usually a safe bet because they won’t compete with the stone’s natural beauty.
- Vinyl or Wood Siding – You have more flexibility here. Match the undertones in your siding color. Cool-toned siding works with gray shingles, and warm-toned siding pairs well with brown options.
- Stucco Homes – Light-colored stucco looks great with darker roof shingle colors for contrast. Dark stucco can handle lighter shingles without looking washed out.
Consider Your Local Climate
Climate affects both the performance and appearance of asphalt shingle roofs:
- Hot Climates – Light-colored asphalt roof shingles reflect sunlight and heat, which can lower air conditioning costs. White, light gray, and tan options work well in hot places.
- Cold Climates – Dark roof shingles absorb heat from the sun. This can help melt snow and ice faster. Black, dark brown, and charcoal work well in northern states.
- Moderate Climates – You have more freedom in temperate areas. Focus on what looks best with your home’s style and colors.
Think Long-Term Value
Some asphalt shingle colors hold their value better than others:
- Safe Choices – Gray, brown, and black are timeless. They appeal to most buyers and won’t look dated in 10 to 20 years.
- Trendy Colors – Bold blues, greens, or reds might look great now, but they could seem outdated when you sell.
- Neighborhood Considerations – Staying within the range of other homes in your area should protect your property value.
Use Visualization Tools
Many roofing companies and manufacturers offer tools to help you see how different asphalt shingles will look on your home:
- Online Visualizers – Upload a photo of your house and try different shingle colors digitally.
- Sample Boards – Get physical samples to see how colors look in different lighting conditions.
- Drive-by Research – Look at homes like yours in your neighborhood and take note of what combinations work well.
Follow HOA Guidelines
If you live in a community with a homeowners’ association, check its rules before choosing roof shingles:
- Approved Colors – Many HOAs maintain lists of acceptable shingle colors.
- Approval Process – Some require written approval before installation.
- Architectural Guidelines – These documents often specify what works with different home styles in your community.
Consult a Roofing Professional
Qualified roofers can help you make the best choice for your home. They understand:
- Local Building Codes – Some areas have restrictions on roof colors for fire safety or other reasons.
- High-Quality Brands – Professional roofers know which asphalt shingle manufacturers offer the best warranties and performance.
- Installation Requirements – Roofers can explain how different colors affect installation or maintenance needs.
Count on Gresham Roofing and Construction for Shingle Assistance
The key to choosing the right asphalt shingles is balancing your personal taste with practical considerations. If you need shingle assistance or guidance in Oregon, rely on the experts at Gresham Roofing and Construction. Our team is happy to help, so contact us today.
