Choosing the perfect color for your metal roof is more than just a design choice; it’s a decision that affects your home’s overall aesthetic, energy efficiency, and even its resale value.
Oftentimes, we only think about the color of the house itself, forgetting what a big difference the color of your roof can also make for your home. At L&L Contractors, we understand the importance of making the right decision. Here’s a comprehensive guide that includes seven effective tips to help you select the ideal color for your metal roofing.
1) Consider Your Home’s Architectural Style
It’s important to consider the architectural style of your home when determining the best color for your metal roof. This is because certain styles have unique roofing colors or trends that are important to keep in mind. Traditional homes often look best with classic colors like black, brown, or gray. On the other hand, modern and contemporary homes can benefit from bolder choices like blue, red, or even green.
For instance:
- Colonial and Victorian Homes: Stick to classic colors such as slate gray, forest green, or deep burgundy.
- Modern and Contemporary Homes: Feel free to experiment with bright colors like cobalt blue, vibrant red, or even metallic shades.
However, don’t let an understanding of architecture limit your imagination! If the traditional pairings don’t appeal to you, there are still plenty of unique options available with stone coated metal roofing.
2) Existing Color Palette
If you’re replacing your roof but keeping the rest of your exterior the same, it’s important to consider what you’re already working with. One way to ensure that your home blends together nicely is by making sure your roof’s color harmonizes with your home’s exterior elements, such as siding, brick, and trim. A cohesive color scheme creates a more attractive and polished look. For instance:
- Brick and Stone: Earthy tones like brown, green, or rust work well with natural materials.
- Wood Siding: Neutral colors such as gray, black, or white complement wooden exteriors beautifully.
- Painted Siding: Match or contrast your roof color with the dominant siding color for a balanced appearance.
Also, you can match undertones. For example, if you have a cool toned house, opting for a cool toned roof will allow for a cohesive look, even if you choose a more striking roof color.
When thinking about your color palette, also remember it is more than just your home. Be sure to keep your landscaping and natural surroundings in mind when choosing the color for your roof to ensure everything is in sync.
3) Climate and Energy Efficiency
Your local climate should heavily influence your color choice. Light-colored roofs reflect more sunlight, which can keep your home cooler in hot climates. Conversely, dark-colored roofs absorb heat, making them ideal for colder regions where you want to retain as much warmth as possible. (This is only true for direct to deck install.)
- Hot Climates: Choose lighter shades like white, light gray, or beige to help reduce cooling costs. Hotter climates, that are humid, are likely to have algae in the air. This algae can land on the roof and grow causing streaking. This is more prominent in lighter color roofing.
- Cold Climates: Darker colors such as black, dark brown, or deep green can help retain heat and reduce heating costs.
4) Desired Aesthetic
Once you understand your color palette and architectural style, it’s time to start thinking about what you want the final result to look like. Do you want your roof to stand out, or do you prefer something more subtle? If you want a roof that stands out, go for a color that contrasts highly with the color of your house, such as a white house with a charcoal roof. For a more cohesive look, do the opposite, and choose a roof color that is similar to the base color of your home. If you’re looking to tie everything together, consider having your roof and shutters be similar colors. No matter what your preference is, be sure to remember the aforementioned rule about tone matching to ensure everything looks perfect.
Ultimately, your personal preference should guide your decision. Your home is a reflection of your personality, and your roof color should make you happy every time you see it. Whether you prefer bold and striking colors or subtle and understated hues, choose something that aligns with your style.
5) Neighborhood Aesthetics and HOA Guidelines
Before making a final decision, take a look around your neighborhood. While you want your home to stand out, it should also blend well with its surroundings. Additionally, if you live in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), check their guidelines. Some HOAs have strict rules about exterior colors to maintain a uniform look in the neighborhood.
- Complementary Colors: Choose a color that complements the neighboring houses while still reflecting your personal taste.
- HOA Compliance: Ensure that your color choice meets the HOA’s regulations to avoid any potential fines or the need to redo it.
6) Shingle Style
With stone coated metal roofing, you are able to choose from a variety of shingle styles that emulate traditional asphalt, slate, shake or ceramic, while achieving all of the benefits of metal!
Whether your desired look is coastal, modern, traditional, or anything in between, try these combinations for a trendy look:
- Pine Crest Shake in Country Blend
- Cottage Shingle in Barclay HD
- Granite-Ridge Shingle in Timberwood
- Pacific Tile in Charcoal
7) Sample and Test
Before committing to a color, obtain samples and test them on your roof. Viewing the color in different lighting conditions throughout the day can help you determine how it will truly look. This step can prevent costly mistakes and ensure you’re delighted with your choice.
Popular Metal Roofing Colors and Their Effects
- White: Reflects heat effectively, keeping your home cooler. It also gives a clean, modern look.
- Gray: A versatile color that complements many architectural styles and exteriors. Available in various shades from light to dark.
- Black: Adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Best suited for colder climates.
- Brown: Provides a warm, natural appearance that works well with rustic or traditional homes.
- Green: Offers a unique, eye-catching look, perfect for homes surrounded by nature.
- Blue: Creates a bold statement, suitable for modern or coastal homes.
- Red: A vibrant, attention-grabbing color that adds character and charm.
Schedule a Metal Roofing Consultation Today
Choosing the right metal roofing color is a significant decision that impacts your home’s appearance, energy efficiency, and value. By considering all of the factors listed above, you now have the tools you need to help you make an informed decision about what color to choose for your metal roofing.
Now it’s just time to add your own personal style to the mix. Doing this shouldn’t be too difficult with all of the design options offered with stone coated metal roofing. At L&L Contractors, we’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring you find the perfect color that enhances your home’s beauty and functionality.
If you considered all of these tips but still would like more guidance, or want to learn more about stone coated metal roofing solutions, schedule a consultation with L&L Contractors today or call (615) 724-4905. Our experts are ready to help you choose the perfect color for your metal roof, ensuring your home stands out in the best possible way.
