How to choose a roof color?

Choosing the color of a roof is a decision that affects both the look of the house and, over time, its energy use. A few practical considerations make the choice much easier.

1. The architecture and surroundings of the house

Start with the architectural style of the house and its surroundings. Different styles suit different colors: traditional houses often work well with classic tones such as black or dark gray, while modern houses can carry brighter or more unusual colors. In the countryside, light and natural tones tend to suit the landscape better than flashy ones.

2. Climate and energy efficiency

Roof color affects how much heat the house absorbs. Dark colors absorb more heat, which can help in cold climates but works against you in hot ones. Light colors reflect more sunlight and help keep the house cooler, which can lower cooling costs in summer.

3. Neighborhood and zoning

Take into account the general color scheme of the neighborhood, and check whether local zoning or building regulations restrict roof color. In many areas it's expected that the roof matches the surrounding houses reasonably well.

4. Roofing material

The roofing material also limits or expands the color options. Tile roofs typically come in natural earth tones, while metal roofs are usually available in a wider range of colors. Check what colors your chosen material actually offers before settling on one.

5. Compare samples

Before deciding, get physical samples of the colors you're considering and compare them against the house's wall materials and its surroundings, ideally in different lighting conditions. A color can look quite different on a sample chip than it does on an actual roof.

6. Personal taste

In the end, the color also needs to please you, since you're the one who will look at it every day. If you're still unsure, ask a roofing contractor or architect for advice — they can help you weigh the options for your specific building.