4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roof Color
When it’s time to re-roof your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what color to choose. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, from matching your home’s aesthetic to ensuring that your roof will last as long as possible. In this post, we’ll explore six factors you should keep in mind when choosing a roof color. Happy reading!
1. Consider the climate and weather in your area
If your house is in a temperate area, with mild seasons and not much rain, you’ll have more options when it comes to roof color. Frequent heavy rain and humidity will have an effect on the color you choose. Dark colors are more likely to show moss and mildew growth, and light colors may be more susceptible to staining from heavy rain and snow.
Conversely, hotter climates are more likely to require more maintenance as the heat causes wear on shingles more quickly than cold weather.
If you live in a hot climate, choosing a dark roof color will cause your roof to heat more quickly, and may contribute to higher cooling bills. A light color may be a better choice to reflect light and heat. If it rains a lot where you live or you often get snow, any of the darker colors will absorb heat from the sun and may melt snow or ice faster than lighter shades.
2. Think about the style of your home
Roof colors are often best suited to the style of your house. For example, if you have a Victorian home, brighter and vibrant shades can make your home pop on its street. For more modern designs, darker shades are much more common, though they may appear more dated if trends change quickly.
Ultimately, the goal should be to make your home look natural in your neighborhood. While standing out may not be a bad thing, you certainly don’t want your home to appear garish in contrast.
3. Consider resale value
Roof color may not be at the top of the list of priorities for potential buyers, but picking the wrong shade could detract from your home’s street appeal. Darker colors may not affect the value of your house in a positive way if they are difficult to keep clean or don’t match the style of the rest of your home.
Most neighborhoods are varied on roof color, however, it may be a good choice to choose a color that will go well with the rest of the homes in your area.
4. HOA Requirements
Some Home Owners Associations have strict requirements for the colors and materials you choose for your home. Most associations are interested in protecting a certain aesthetic, while others are more interested in making sure your home does not decrease the property value of other homes in the neighborhood.
Before you waste too much time deliberating or beginning your project, make sure you have considered any requirements placed by your HOA.
4. Ask your roofing contractor for advice
Your contractor is the best person to advise you on what color will work well for your roof. He or she knows weather conditions, material, and labor costs in your area, and has likely installed many roofs in the past.
Your contractor will also be able to make sure the color you choose is compatible with the shingles or tiles you want to use.
Conclusion
As with any home improvement project, take your time and consider each of these factors before choosing a roof color. You’ll save yourself money and headaches in the future by doing so. Additionally, keep in mind that the most important factor is that you get what you want.
Many contractors have digital tools that will allow you to envision what your home will look like in a variety of roof colors and styles, giving you the perspective you need to make the right decision.