Your roofing system is an integral part of your home, acting as the first line of defense against the elements, falling debris, critters, and more. A roof made from high-quality materials will last longer, save you money on energy bills, and protect your home from leaks and other roofing problems.
So when it comes time to replace or repair your roof, you may be wondering: What color of shingles should you use? Are light or dark shingles better? And do lighter shingles last longer?
The color of shingles you choose is more than just an aesthetic decision, and it’s important to make the right color choice based on the type of roof you own, the climate of your region, and the color of your home.
Check out our guide for answers to all of your questions, plus expert tips on how to pick a shingle color.
What Color of Shingles Should I Use?
The shade of shingles you choose should be based on many factors, including the color of the roofs in the neighborhood, the color of your house, and more. So how do you pick a roof color?
Fortunately, there are many tools available to help you decide on the best shingle color for your roof. You can use an online exterior home color visualizer to help you decide on the best color for your roof. Here are a few rules of thumb to consider as you explore your options:
- If your siding is a warm tone, your shingles should be a warm tone, too.
- Likewise, if your siding is a cool tone, your shingles should be a cool tone, too.
Match your shingles to the siding by choosing a basic, neutral color, such as black, brown, or gray. - Remember that darker shingles can heat up your home, which may be a drawback in a warm climate, but a benefit in a colder climate.
- Consider the shingles on houses in your neighborhood. It’s usually best to choose a color that blends with nearby homes.
Are Light or Dark Shingles Better?
Wondering if light or dark shingles are better? The answer depends on where you live. Dark shingles are known for drawing heat to a home, which could be a good thing if you live in a cold climate. However, if you live in a warm area, like the southwest, you’ll want to stay away from dark shingles, which will make it harder to cool down your home in the summertime. However, keep in mind that the effectiveness of the shingles also depends on the insulation and ventilation of the home.
How Do I Pick a Roof Color?
Your roof color makes a big impact on the overall curb appeal of your home. If you’re wondering how to pick a roof color, here are some tips to help you decide:
Compare shingle colors on houses in your neighborhood. Are there colors that you love? Are all of the roofs the same color?
Ask roofing companies for color samples, then take your time to compare the colors and envision them on your rooftop.
Test samples outside to see how they look in different lighting and when paired with your siding.
Make sure you look at the shingle color on the back and sides of your home. Does it pair well with the environment? Do you like the color scheme?
Do Lighter Shingles Last Longer?
If you’ve ever worn a dark T-shirt on a hot day, you may have noticed that darker colors absorb more sunlight than lighter colors. The same principle is true for shingles—meaning that lighter colors absorb less light, and therefore last longer than dark shingles.
Strong UV rays can cause shingles to crack, streak, and break over time, so it makes sense that the shingles absorbing less sunlight would outlast darker shingles.
If you live in a warm climate, lighter shingles are definitely a wise choice.
What Color Shingles Last the Longest?
So what color shingles last the longest? Shingles in lighter shades of tan, gray, or white tend to last longer than shingles in dark shades of gray, brown, or black because UV rays don’t damage them as quickly.
Find the Perfect Shingle Color for Your Home
Now that you know how to pick a shingle color, head to American Roofing to find the right shingles for your home. We offer a wide range of high-quality shingles in every popular color, and our team of professionals will ensure your shingles are installed to last for decades to come. Get in touch today to request a quote for your perfect shingle color.
About the Author: Andrew Yorgason
