Shingle Color: 3 Tips to Find the Right Shade

Color is not only about looks. In shingle roofing, it makes or breaks the value of a home. Think about its resale value and energy efficiency, to name a few. But to choose a shingle color that fits one’s intention and preferences is not a piece of cake. 

Learn from experts. In this article, Royalty Roofing shared ideas and things to consider when deciding which color to use.

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know about Shingle Color

• Shingle color makes or breaks the value of a home.
• Choosing the right color depends on three factors: resale value, local climate, and neighborhood rules.
• The selected shingle color should complement the house architectural style, siding color, and other existing exterior features.

Why the Color of Shingle Matters?

Color increases the overall use of shingle roofing. While durability, effectiveness, and longevity play important roles, shingle color upholds these things. Generally, it can make or break the value of a house.

3 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Shingle Color

To find the right color, consider aligning it with one or two of the following:

Resale Value

While there is no in-depth study of how a shingle color directly influences the resale value of a home, first impression lasts. In houses, it is the curb appeal. And it is no secret that color enhances the exterior charm of a house as some combinations look better than others.

A 2022 report from National Association of Realtors (NARs) titled “Impact of Remodeling” also highlights the high investment returns of replacing and renovating roofs. It suggests that a new and visually appealing roof is key to boost a home’s resale value. 

Royalty Roofing recommends using classic and neutral shades. GAF roofing shingles in black, brown, and gray are our roofers go-to choices.

Local Weather

Color, especially in homes located in areas with warm weather, is usually an overlooked aspect when installing shingle roofing. But some colors take in more heat than others. And the more heat the roof absorbs, the warmer the house.

In other words, shingle color can increase or reduce the energy efficiency of a home. Dark colors take in more heat, while light colors reflect heat. 

Neighborhood Rules

Some neighborhoods have rules and regulations in terms of exterior colors and styles. It is safe to ask and check the approved list of colors first to avoid additional labor cost for roof replacement. 

3 Proven Ways to Find the Right Shingle Color

Architectural Style

A home’s architectural style and exterior colors should work together. Modern homes, for example, look best with sleek shades like black or charcoal gray, while traditional homes go well with warm browns and weathered wood tones. 

Here’s a quick guide to find the perfect shingle colors:

Architectural Style	Shingle Color	Description
Modern	Black or Charcoal Gray	Chic and streamlined colors that accentuate modern homes architecture
Traditional	Weathered Wood or Brown	Inviting, earthy shades that give off a classic charm
Colonial	Deep Red or Slate Gray	Elegant colors that beautifully accentuate the natural warmth of wood and brick
Rustic/Cottage	Red,  Forest Green, or Warm Gray	Nature-inspired hues that evoke a sense of cozy charm and naturally blend with the surrounding landscape

Existing Siding Color

Create a striking look by using shingle color that contrasts and siding colors. Dark shingles pop against light siding, while light shingles create a softer feel against a dark exterior.

See how these color combinations can boost your home’s curb appeal:

Siding Color	Shingle Color	Description
Red or Brick	Black or Slate Gray	Subdues the vibrancy of red brick, resulting into a sophisticated and timeless look
Beige or Cream	Slate or Dark Brown	Gives off a sense of relaxed elegance and inviting warmth
Light Gray or White	Black or Charcoal	Creates a striking contrast that accentuates the clean lines of homes, especially modern ones.

Exterior Features

Choose shingle colors that match the house’s existing exterior features. Here’s a table with popular shingle colors and what type of homes they are the most suitable to pair with:

Shingle Color	Description	Best For
Slate Blue	Gives off a sense of tranquility and calm with its subtle blue undertones	Pairs beautifully with homes featuring white or light-colored exterior
Charcoal Gray	Creates a clean, modern look	Homes with modern architecture and light-colored siding
Forest Green	Complements the natural beauty of its surroundings	An ideal choice for rustic homes or cottages nestled in verdant landscapes
Summer Harvest	A rich and captivating blend of earthy gold and brown tones	Enhances the curb appeal of homes with neutral exteriors and those with natural materials like wood and stone

Ask the Experts from Royalty Roofing

The color of the shingle matters. It enhances a house’s curb appeal, resale value, and makes homes cooler. But the selection process should not be difficult.

Reach out to Royalty Roofing’s expert roofers and ask for assistance. They offer exceptional asphalt shingle replacement, and other roofing solutions.

Call us at (440) 797-4242 or (330) 919-6661, and schedule a free project estimate.