Shingle color matters when you’re selecting materials — your roof replacement is one of the most expensive investments you will ever make in your home. What difference does it make what color your shingles are?
Think About the Surrounding Climate
While it is not considered a dominating factor when selecting the type of shingles for your home, the amount of sun your home gets could affect the energy efficiency of your attic.
When the sun beats down on a darker shingle color that absorbs more heat, your attic will be hotter than if you had chosen a lighter color that deflected the sun’s rays. You could end up paying more in cooling bills in the summer.
However, talk to any experienced roofing contractor and you will find that professionals know what’s truly important when it comes to maximizing the energy efficiency of your roofing system: attic ventilation.
Experts claim that as long as you outfit your attic with plenty of soffit vents positioned in the right locations to facilitate airflow, the color of the roof will have less of an effect on overall cooling costs. Still, it’s worth taking this potential side effect into consideration when making a decision.
Take Curb Appeal Seriously
According to a 2013 National Association of Realtors survey, 91 percent of realtors believe that the color of a roof’s shingles is important to potential home shoppers. The shingle color you choose has the potential to make or break your home’s curb appeal. It’s not a decision to be made lightly.
As a rule, lighter-colored shingles show wear and tear sooner than darker colors. If your home is situated near trees, remember that grime won’t show up as starkly if your shingles are dark — the color hides it. A cleaner-looking roof also will help add to your home’s curb appeal and require less maintenance overall.
Selecting Shingle Color
How can you choose the right color based on your home’s architectural style and siding color? Don’t pick a color that is identical to your home’s siding. Your house will look completely washed out with no contrast.
Also, if you already have a dominant color siding, consider choosing a simple, straightforward roofing color to help balance the look. Too much contrast swings the pendulum in the opposite direction.
If you plan on selling your home within your roof’s life span, don’t pick a shingle color that is too “outside of the box.” You want to make sure potential buyers will find it attractive too, rather than only going by your own tastes. Look around your neighborhood and the surrounding area to find out what’s popular in the region for roofing colors.
For more professional expertise on selecting shingle color and going forward with your roof replacement, call the professionals at the Roof Doctor.