When choosing a shingle color, most homeowners play it safe with neutral shades. Shingle color, however, offers more than just an aesthetic factor that visually pleases the eyes. It can influence a few important aspects of a house, too, such as its resale value and energy efficiency.
So, when replacing a shingle roof, it is wise to consider the color as well. In this article, expert roofers from Krech Exteriors share a few ways to choose a suitable shade of shingles.
Key Takeaways: What You Should Know
- Choosing the right shingle color is essential as it influences the overall value of a home
- Opt for a shingle color that matches the home’s architectural style, siding color, and other exterior features.
- Consider the house resale value, HOA rules, and local weather when choosing a shingle color.
- It is best to ask professional roofers to make the selection process accurate and hassle-free.
Why Is Using the Right Shingle Color Important
Choosing the right color maximizes the use of asphalt shingles in several ways that homeowners often neglect. From its overall look to its resale capacities, it can make or break a house’s value.
3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Shingle Color
To find the right color, there are things you need to consider. Is the house for resale? Is it situated in an area with a hot climate?
Here’s why.
Resale Value
Is the house for resale?
If yes, give potential buyers a good impression through the house’s curb appeal. And a visually stunning exterior is built with complementing and easy on the eyes colors. Hence, the importance of shingle color.
Certain colors appeal better than others. Krech Exteriors recommend GAF shingle roofing. Our roofers go-to choices are neutral and classic shades like brown, gray, and black.
HOA Rules
In some areas, there are rules and regulations in terms of home exterior colors. It is safe to check the list of approved colors first before deciding which shingle color to use. Doing so saves everyone from having to redo the roof.
Standard Local Weather
Some colors absorb more heat than others. If the house is situated in an area with a warm climate, this could be a huge factor that will influence how much energy a home uses.
Dark-colored shingles absorb more heat while light-colored shingles reflect sunlight. To save on energy costs, opt for light-colored shingles. Or browse from CertainTeed’s selection of ClimateFlex shingles.
How to Choose a Shingle Color
To find the right shingle color, consider these two main factors: the house’s architectural style and existing exterior colors.
Consider the Home’s Architectural Style
In exterior design, architectural style and exterior colors should match and complement each other. Residential buildings with contemporary style and minimalist aesthetic go best with clean shades such as black or charcoal gray.
Traditional houses, on the one hand, go well with shingles in warm tones like brown or weathered wood. Overall, choosing a shingle color that matches the architectural style of a house creates a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Here’s a quick guide to help you select the most suitable shingle colors for different architectural styles:
| Architectural Style | Shingle Colors | Description |
| Modern | Black, Charcoal Gray | Neat and sleek colors that improve clean lines |
| Traditional | Weathered Wood, Brown | Warm shades that give a classic and elegant look |
| Colonial | Deep Red, Slate Gray | Rich and classic colors that matches wood and brick accents well |
| Cottage/Rustic | Red, Forest Green, Warm Gray | Earthy shades that complement natural surroundings well |
Contrast Shingle Colors with Exterior Elements
Opting for a contrasting shingle color against the existing siding color makes a home look more attractive. Dark-colored shingles paired against a light exterior make the roofline stand out, giving a striking look. Light-colored shingles, on the other hand, look softer, calm, and inviting if paired against a dark exterior.
Here’s how different color combinations can be used to create contrast and boost your home’s curb appeal:
| Siding Color | Recommended Shingle Color | Effect |
| Beige or Cream | Slate or Dark Brown | Offers a warm and inviting mood |
| Red or Brick | Black or Slate Gray | Matches earthy tones well, adds sophistication |
| Dark Brown or Black | Beige or Light Gray | Creates a soft and harmonious look |
| Light Gray or White | Black or Charcoal | Sharp and sleek contrast that makes the roof look striking |
Complement Shingle Colors with Existing Exterior Features
Opt for a shingle color that complements an existing siding color. Whether you pair it with an exterior with busy colors or monochromatic, it creates enticing color combinations that either offer a sense of harmony or visual intrigue.
Here’s a table highlighting some popular shingle colors and their descriptions to help guide your decision:
| Shingle Color | Description | Best For |
| Slate Blue | With subtle hints of blue, it offers a refreshing and calming atmosphere | Homes with white or light-colored exteriors |
| Forest Green | It blends well with the natural colors of surroundings | Rustic homes or cottages surrounded by greeneries |
| Charcoal Gray | A contemporary and sleek look | Homes with modern architectural style and light-colored siding |
| Weathered Wood | A combination of warm shades | Rustic or traditional homes with stone or brick exterior |
| Summer Harvest | A perfect blend of earthy tones of gold and brown | Homes with neutral exterior color or exteriors with earthy elements |
Ask the Experts from Krech Exteriors
It is true that when it is time to replace shingle roofs, choosing a shingle color sounds easy. For many homeowners, however, finding the right one that meets their needs is not easy as there are several factors that need to be considered.
Krech Exteriors expert roofers are here to guide and provide all the knowledge that can help in deciding which shingle color to choose. We also offer exterior solutions for siding, windows, and doors.
Reach out to us at (651) 349 6815 or schedule a free consultation today!
