YOUR NEW ROOFING SHINGLES' COLOR: 3 THINGS TO CONSIDER

Your roof is an important part of your home's construction. Not only does it finish your home's curb appeal, but it also protects your belongings and family from the outdoor elements. Unfortunately, your roof is not going to last forever, no matter how well you maintain it. Depending on the materials used, how well it is installed and maintained, and the local climate, you can expect asphalt shingles to last 20 to 40 years and fiberglass shingles to last 50 years.

Thankfully, replacing your roofing shingles does not have to be an overwhelming task with the help of professionals. Of course, you will need to select shingles that match your home's architectural style and neighborhood's look to protect curb appeal and value. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a color for your new roofing shingles.

When you replace your roof, you can base the color you choose for your shingles off the color of your siding. Just make sure your roof color will work with any colors you plan to change the siding to in the future.

Certain color shingles will look best on homes with certain siding colors. For example:

The architectural style of your home is also a factor to consider when choosing new shingles. For example, a Victorian-style home that is painted in a brighter color may benefit from a roof with decorative shingles in various shades of burgundy and gray. If you live in a home with a stucco exterior, try tan, beige, and even reddish-colored shingles and tiles.

Certain roofing colors are more energy-efficient than others, and if you know which colors provide the best efficiency, you’ll have an easier time making a decision.

A darker shingle may seem to be the most appealing option, but the darker color can actually absorb the heat. On average, a black roof will be 10 to 15 degrees warmer than a roof with white shingles when exposed to direct sunshine. This increased heat will seep through the roof, into your attic, and all through your home, making it difficult to cool your home while running the air conditioning during the warmer seasons.

When selecting the color for your shingles, opt for the lightest color possible that will work with your home's exterior. The lighter color will reduce heat absorption, decreasing the amount of energy you need to use when cooling your home in the summer months.

If you live in a neighborhood that has a homeowner's association or your home is located within a specific city, you may need approval on the roof color before choosing your new shingles.

HOAs and some city organizations have specific guidelines and covenants on homes. These guidelines are set in place to protect the appeal of homes and the actual value of the properties.

If you install a roof that is not approved by your HOA or local government, you may have to pay a fine before replacing the roof (at your own expense) with shingles that will be approved.

Consult your homeowner's association or city official with a plan on how your home's exterior will look. You may need to wait a period of time so all of the organization or board members have a chance to look over your plan, but you can complete your project once they give you approval.

To get started replacing your roof, contact Whittle's Roofing Co., Inc.