4 Tips for Choosing the Right Shingle Color for Your Home

Picking a shingle color can be one of the most difficult choices when it comes time to replace your roof. The color you choose will greatly affect the aesthetics of your home and may even impact its resale value. Here are some tips for choosing the right shingle color for your house.

Consider Your Geographic Location

The climate of your geographic location will help determine your roof's shingle color. White and light colored shingles reflect heat and are ideal for homes in hot, sunny climates. Darker shingles absorb heat and are best for houses located in areas prone to cold temperatures and snow. According to TAMKO Building Products, choosing the color that's right for your geographic location provides for a more energy-efficient roof.

Observe Other Homes in Your Neighborhood

Check out the other homes on your block and see what color shingles they have. When observing the shingle color, also take note of the home's brick, stone, siding and trim. Determine which combinations you like and which you do not. It's beneficial to choose a color that is similar to the other homes in your neighborhood, in the event that you plan to sell your home in the future. A unique or bold color may not appeal to buyers and therefore decrease your home's value and/or make it more difficult to sell.

Test The Color Before Committing

Don’t rely on a minimized sample or sales brochure when picking a shingle color. Ask the roofing manufacturer or contractor for a full-sized shingle sample so you can get a better idea of how it will look on your roof. Some companies have online visualization tools in which you can upload a picture of your home and test the different shingle colors to see how they look.

Examine the Color in Different Lighting

The shingle color may look different at different times of day and under different lighting. Observe how the shingle looks in the shade and in the sun to ensure it looks great on your home in all lighting.