A roof can account for up to 40% of a home’s visual exterior. Apart from providing protection, the roof is a key home design element. High-quality shingles with thoughtful colors and patterns increase property value, add ambiance to outdoor spaces, and can even express a homeowner’s personality. Don’t let your shingle color and pattern be an afterthought.
Choosing Shingle Colors
It can be difficult to choose a shingle color that complements your home’s exterior. There is a lot to take into consideration, such as your home’s exterior color. Avoid shingles the same color as your house or your home will look bland. Consider the color of doors and shutters and choose a matching or complementary color.
Also consider the area that you live in. Choose colors that blend with the environment you live in. That’s why you tend to see earth-toned roofs in the southwest and greens and light gray roofs in the northwest. If you live in a wooded area consider shades of grey, brown, or green to balance with the surrounding environment.
When in doubt, here are some popular house and shingle color combinations:
House Color Complementary Shingle Color
Red/Brick Dark Brown, Black, Grey, Green
Light Grey Grey, Black, Red, Green, Blue, White
Beige/Sand/Taupe Brown, Black, Red, Grey, Green, Blue
Brown Grey, Brown, Green, Blue
White Almost any color including Brown, Grey, Black, Green, Blue, Red
Wood Houses Brown, Green, Black, Grey
Your shingles don’t have to be a solid color. Try mixing colors or choosing shingles with flecks of color for a more interesting look. Keep in mind that the greater the slope of your roof, the more shingles you’ll be able to see. This may affect your choice of color or pattern. Ask for shingle color samples that you can compare to your home’s exterior.
Shingle Shapes and Patterns
Beyond color, you can also select different shingle shapes and patterns. Typically, you see rectangular, or square butt, shingles. However, shingles can also come in octagon, diamond, fish scale, and chisel shapes. Shingles can be applied in a half-shingle offset or a half-tab offset pattern or applied in a racking or pyramid pattern layout.
You can also create a pattern by using shingles of alternating colors. Try a monochromatic pattern such as a tri-colored grey or go bold with reds and oranges for a southwestern-inspired pattern.
Keep in mind that roofing is a long-term commitment. Shingles installed by a quality roofing contractor will last for years and years to come so make sure you pick something you like that complements your home and style. If you’re having trouble deciding or want a second opinion to consult with your roofing contractor.
The Roof Doctors have been serving the Greater Portland area for over 25 years. Our reputation is built on professionalism and quality craftsmanship which has earned us 100+ positive Google reviews and an A+ BBB rating. We can help you choose the right shingles for your new roof or roof replacement.