Choosing the right color for your roof is an important decision that will affect the style of your home for decades. But with so many colors to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?
There are a few factors to consider when making your decision, including climate, style, and personal preference. Today, we’re going to break down these factors to help you figure out the best choice for your home during your next roof replacement. Take a look!
What Do Light or Dark Shingles Affect?
Roof color affects your curb appeal and the overall style of your home but, really, there’s no “correct” answer when deciding on the color of your roofing materials. Whether you go dark or light, your roof color ultimately comes down to what you want to focus on.
Dark and light roofs each have their place. When picking a color, you’ll want to focus on climate and style.
Considering Climate
Where you live can factor into your decision-making when it comes time to replace your shingles. Dark-colored shingles absorb heat from sunlight, while light-colored roof shingles reflect some of that solar heat energy.
What does this mean for you? Those living in colder climates may want to consider a dark-colored roof for long winters and tons of snow – the extra heat of the rooftop will help that ice and snow melt. The opposite is true for warm climates – light-colored roofs will negate some of those heat rays and may help with your energy bills by dropping the roof heat a couple of degrees.
Of course, in Florida, we don’t really have the same issues as cooler climates, so you have fewer benefits (and more freedom) when it comes to color!
Considering Style
Dark vs. light roof shingles impact the look of your home much more than they help you save money on air conditioner energy costs.
Before changing up your dark roof shingles for light shingles (or vice versa), you have to ask yourself: What look am I going for? Darker colors with light siding add a distinct contrast while matching colors keep the look uniform from top to bottom.
Homes also have specific designs to consider – is your Key West-style home going to look weird with a black roof? Probably. But rustic houses look great with dark-colored roofs. Your roof plays a significant role in the theme of your house.
Considering Energy Efficiency
Can changing the color of your roof shingles really make your home more energy efficient?
While some people might argue that there are definite advantages to dark roofs and lighter roofing, the truth is that the real benefits happen above the attic – not with the temperature inside. As we mentioned earlier, dark roofs help when you’re facing short summers and tons of snow.
Roofing material, material quality, and attic insulation do a lot more for your air conditioning utility bills than having lighter colors on the exterior of your home. In fact, insulation is the biggest temperature factor in the sun and summer heat when it comes to “cool roofs.”
Making a Decision About Roof Color
Homeowners can stop worrying about choosing between a dark roof and a light roof when getting a new roof. When it comes to choosing shingles, it all comes down to personal preference – what will look good and what you’ll like.
So, put together some color palettes and look around your neighborhood to get inspired. Your home should be something you’re proud of and that you love to look at!
Schedule Your Roof Replacement with the Pros!
Want to talk about roofing color and materials for your house? It’s time to talk to Brevard’s roofing professionals. Call Pro’s Choice Roofing today to schedule your free estimate and inspection with our team and discover the Pro’s Choice Advantage today!
