So Many Options...Which One is Best For Your Roof?

If you haven't had to shop for a new roof in the past decade, you're probably unaware of the fact that there are tons of options when it comes to roofing materials.  A roof typically lasts anywhere from 20-50 years, so chances are, you will have to replace your roof at some point in your life.  Because your new roof will last for years, it is important to choose your roofing shingles wisely so they'll not only last as long as you expect, but also so you don't cringe every time you pull up to your house.  With that being said, here are several factors you should keep in mind when choosing the color of your roofing shingles:

Climate:  The color of the shingles will help keep your energy bills in line because it can affect the temperature in your attic by 20-40 degrees.  Lighter colored shingles reflect sunlight and will help keep your home cool, while darker colored shingles absorb heat and will help keep your home stay warm if you live in a colder climate.

Color of Your Home:  You'll want to coordinate the color of your roof with the other elements of your home, whether it is brick, stucco, or covered in siding.  Dark gray or black shingles look great with a gray, blue, or white house.  If your home is brown, cream, or tan, you may want to go with brown shingles or a mix of cream and brown.  If your home is a different color, such as green, red, or yellow, you will have more flexibility when it comes to choosing a color because they all will compliment your home.

Make a Statement:  What type of statement do you want to make with your home?  Neutral colors such as tan, cream, brown, black, and gray are the safest option and will stay in style the longest.  If you're going for a trendier statement, you can use a color combination such as various brown tones or a mix of blues, blacks, and grays.  

Illusion:  Darker colored shingles will make your home look smaller while lighter colors will make it look larger

Your Neighbors: If you are a member of a neighborhood association, you will need to check with them to see what colors are approved for your roofing shingles.  If there are no rules concerning the color of your roof, you should still take into consideration how your roof will blend with the surrounding homes.  You don't want to choose the exact same color roof as your next door neighbors, but you also don't want the colors to clash.

Consult with a qualified and experienced roofing contractor to help you choose the best roofing shingle for your home.  There are so many options on the market so they should be able to help you narrow down your choices.  Shingle type and color are important decisions that will greatly affect your home's curb appeal as well as resale value.