You’ve finally decided you need a new roof. Maybe you’ve even decided on the contractor you want to work with. But a large—and common—issue we hear from homeowners is that they aren’t sure what color to pick.
Color choice is a huge factor in your home’s curb appeal. Everyone passing by your house will take in your design choices and pairings, and you see it every day you pull up into the driveway. And, unlike most siding, you can’t paint your roof if you get sick of the color. Choosing a color combination that makes you feel happy when you see it (or at the very least, isn’t an eyesore) is our job here at Pacific Exteriors.
With almost 20 years of experience helping homeowners just like you, we’re confident when we say that finding the best roofing color for your home starts with intentional observation of the homes around you and some light research.
So let’s get started—how do we find the perfect roof color for you?
Choose a Roof Color Compatible with Your Existing Siding
If your home isn’t in need of a siding replacement any time soon, ensure that your roof color matches your siding is a smart, cost-effective decision.
Remember: you can’t repaint your roof. The color you pick is the color that’ll be there until you need another replacement, and we want to help you avoid that.
This is one of the model homes available on our exterior design tool. We’ll be using this home as an example.
Let’s say this homeowner needs a roof replacement. They see the warm colors of the brick siding and decide they want to choose a similar color.
This also doesn’t look too right; now the neutral brown of the shutters clashes with the warmer red of the roof.
Maybe the homeowner likes this color more—but there’s still a lot of brown. Plus, the visualizer can’t show you what the same roofing options look like during different weather conditions.
Your Neighborhood Will Help You Pick a Roof Color
One of the best and most effective ways of deciding a new roofing color is by taking a glance at what your neighbors are doing. (It’s funny how as soon as you know you need a new roof you start noticing the roofs of every building you pass!)
A quick assessment will give you all the information to make a safe choice. It will tell you what
- Type of materials are used in your neighborhood
- Colors and color matches are used in your neighborhood
Whether you decide to follow the grain and use similar materials or go against the grain (but be careful of HOA rules if you’re in one), using the homes around yours as a starting point is an excellent choice.
Also, look for houses that have a similar architectural style or color to yours. It can seem silly, but seeing realistic examples of a home with common elements to yours can reduce the anxiety around a large decision. Bonus points if it’s the same style of house as well!
Caption: One roof out of this neighborhood stands out more than any of the others…
Take Inspiration From Nature
Nature, especially in the Pacific Northwest, is bountiful and lush. Choosing colors that complement the natural growth around your home will further serve to beautify your exterior.
Consider choosing complementary colors to outdoor elements like:
- Trees, bushes, shrubs
- Large outdoor structures like a gazebo
- Mountains or bodies of water
- Flower beds
