Picking the color of your new roof can be stressful since you'll need to live with it for decades.
Updating your roof is one of the most significant investments you can make as a homeowner. Since the shelf life of a roof can be up to 50 years, it’s understandable why one might have anxiety about the decision.
We’ve compiled some tips on how to make the roofing color selection as stress-free as possible.
1. Don’t rush picking out a roof
A new roof is not a decision that should be rushed — it’s OK to take some time to give it serious thought. Consider whether your color choice will be what you want years down the road.
2. Talk with your roofing estimator
The roofer giving you an estimate has likely overseen hundreds of roofing jobs and can speak to which colors will best complement your home’s structure and current siding. It’s easier to change your roof than your siding, so be sure the shingle color you have chosen does not clash with the siding and trim.
MORE: How to Pick the Best Roof Color for Your Home
3. Go over all of the roofing material options
There are many different and unique shingle options on the market. Use your home’s architecture as a guide for whether your new shingles should be a singular color or a blend of multiple colors.
4. Utilize roof planning tools
Many roofing manufacturers have technology and software that allows customers the ability to download a photo of their home or select a housing style and drop in different colored siding and roofing options. Ask your roofing estimator if this is an option you are able to utilize.
5. Examine shingles next to your old roof
Examine life-size samples of your top shingle choices. Holding them up against your current shingles will allow you to see how much the new choices vary from what you currently have.
6. Look around at roofs in your area
What kind of roofing do other homes in your neighborhood have? It’s important to be sure your selection complements your neighbors' homes. A choice that is not complementary to neighboring homes may make your home more difficult to sell down the road.
7. Know your home style
Evaluate your home’s style to decide what is an appropriate color and shingle style and what is not. For example, a Spanish style home is going to look out of place with blue shingles. Home magazines can also be helpful in showcasing different styles of homes and the shingle colors that suit them the best.
What inspired you when picking a new roofing color? Tell us about it in the comments section!
Editor's note: This is an updated version of an article orginally published on July 11, 2014.
As of June 19, 2015, this service provider was highly rated on Angie's List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check Angie's List for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie's List.
