Some people have a gift.
You know the type. Their outfits are always perfectly styled, each room in their house filled with furniture and knick-knacks that aren’t TOO matchy but somehow make the space feel cohesive. You ask them to share their design secrets, and they just shrug and say something like, “I just did a lot of research on Pinterest.”
For the rest of us, designing a home that we love can feel like an uphill battle. It can be stressful to make a big design choice that feels permanent and costs a hefty chunk of change. One of those big design decisions? Shingle color.
If you are in the market to install a new asphalt shingle roof but are feeling daunted by the task of having to choose a color, you are not alone. That’s why we are here!
Today, we’ll help you:
- Pick a shingle color that you love
- Understand how to properly maintain it
- Give you an idea of what you can expect to spend
Keep reading to become an exterior design pro!
Signs It Is Time For New Shingles
Before you order your new shingles, it is important to assess whether or not you actually need a roof replacement. After all, you don’t want to throw money at an unnecessary project. Here are some signs you should look for to determine whether or not to replace your shingles:
- Age – The best indicator of the condition of your roof is its age! Most asphalt shingle roofs only last 15-20 years before needing a replacement. If your roof falls in that age range, it’s a good idea to look into options for a new roof.
- Missing Shingles – Down on the ground, it’s easy not to notice when shingles go missing. However, if your roof is missing shingles, you are leaving it vulnerable to water damage that can lead to serious problems for the rest of your home.
- Damaged Roof Flashing – Roof flashing is designed to create a watertight seal for vulnerable areas for your roof. If the flashing is rusting or broken, you may be looking at roof leaks.
- Moss and Algae Growth – There’s nothing moss and algae love more than a damp environment to grow in. And your roof is definitely not an area that you want to be moist! If you’re noticing vegetation growing on your roof, you’ll want to call a roofing professional to come and inspect your roof condition.
7 Best Shingle Colors For Your Roof
These days, homeowners have more options than ever when it comes to shingle colors. No matter what your style is, you’re sure to find a shingle color that appeals to you. Here are some of our top choices:
1) Black Shingles
Typically, when you think of a roof, you imagine black or brown shingles. Black shingles are a classic design choice that will never go out of style. Personally, we love the versatility of this color. Black shingles look gorgeous with a variety of siding colors. We particularly love the clean look of black shingles with white siding.
If you are looking to up the drama, we love the look of a black roof with dark gray or black siding, as well!
2) Brown Shingles
A brown roof is another timeless color that will go with virtually any siding style and color. However, when it comes to brown shingles, you have a wide variety of shades to choose from. We love the warmth that a dark brown shingle color can add to cream or beige siding. Brown shingles with a color blend of light and dark shades will also help you create a more dynamic looking for.
3) Gray Shingles
Gray shingles have a softer, airier feel than their brown and black counterparts while still being a neutral color. This is why is is one of the most popular roof shingle colors on the market. Dark gray roof shingles tend to look better with brown siding or brick houses. Light gray can make just as much of an impact, though, when paired with bright white siding.
4) Red Shingles
If you want to make a statement with your roofing shingles, opt for red roofs. Don’t worry. We’re not asking you to choose a shade that makes your house look like a fire truck. Instead, opt for a shade of red with brown and orange undertones. This roof color adds instant curb appeal and works great for homes that are going for either a farmhouse or coastal look.
7) Green Shingles
For a roof shingle color that stands out from the crowd, you need green shingles. When it comes to asphalt shingles, you’ll rarely see them in green, but we think that’s a waste! Green asphalt shingles allow you to incorporate the color of nature around you. That’s why we like them best when paired with natural materials such as stone or wood siding.
How Much Does a New Shingle Roof Cost?
When it comes to choosing your roofing shingles, it is important to budget appropriately. Luckily, asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market. Standard asphalt shingles will typically cost between $4-$7 dollars per square foot. Of course, if you would like to choose architectural shingles, expect to pay closer to $5-$11 per square foot.
Keep in mind that if you choose an unusual color, such as red or green, you may also be paying slightly more than you would for, say, a brown or black roof.
Consult With A Roofing Professional
Do you still have questions about roof shingle colors or the roofing process in general? Not to worry! Monarch Roofing is the leading roofing contractor in both North and South Carolina and is ready to help you with all of your roofing needs. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, we have a wide variety of GAF Timberline roof shingle colors for you to choose from. Contact us today to get an instant quote for your roofing project!
