RoofViews

Your Home

Choosing the Right House and Roof Color Combination

May 16, 2022

Graphic image of suburban-style houses in many colors against a grey city skyline.

An attractive house and roof color combination can give your home a major boost in curb appeal. Not only does adding visual appeal make the place feel like it's yours, but it also brings a higher resale value. On average, homes considered to have curb appeal sell for 7% to 14% more than similar homes with less visual appeal, according to the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics.

The right roof shingle color improves the overall aesthetic of your home, but other factors—such as your area's climate—may also influence which shade you choose. Consider these guidelines for updating your house with a new color palette.

Match Your Home's Style

Your home's style is made up of the building design, the siding's colors and materials, your landscaping, and more. Don't let a new roof clash with your home's existing style! When installing a new roof, consider these factors to choose the right color roof shingles for your home.

Home Design

What style is your home—farmhouse, cottage, mid century modern, Victorian? Choose a roofing shingle style that complements that aesthetic. For example, wood-shake architectural shingles might look out of place on the stark clean lines of an extremely modern home. Alternately, wood-shake look architectural shingles (in a natural tone such as the Timberline^® NS Weathered Wood) typically complement a craftsman-style home.

Roof Size

Consider how much of your home's visual exterior is made up of the roof. Does your roof have a lot of architectural detail? Does it command a large square footage? If so, a dramatic or dark shingle color may be too visually dominant to be cohesive with your overall aesthetic. Look at your roof from the sidewalk and street, and take photos to use in the GAF Virtual Remodeler. The free online tool will give you a feel for how different shingle colors will come across with your home's other exterior features.

Paint and Trim Color

Choose shingle colors that complement the color family of your home's paint and trim. For example, color consultant Amy Wax recommends selecting brown-toned shingle colors if you have brick siding or warm house paint tones such as beige or taupe.

Conversely, choosing gray or black-toned shingles may be more visually pleasing if you have a cool paint color such as gray or cool green or blue, or cool stone siding details. Boldly blended shingle colors with both cool and warm tones offer the most versatility, as long as you match your exterior paint colors properly.

If you plan to change your paint color in the future, be sure to factor that into your decision, too!

Consider Your Surroundings

Your home is (probably) not an island. Therefore, take your regional climate and neighborhood style into account when choosing your shingle color. Here's why climate and neighborhood style are important to consider.

Daily Forecast

Your roof shingles could absorb or reflect more sun depending on shingle color and type. If your home seems to bake in the arid sun, you might want to take into consideration Timberline HDZ^® RS Shingles, which are highly reflective and may help reduce cooling costs^*. If you're maximizing the sun by collecting solar energy with solar shingles, such as Timberline Solar, then black shingles will help absorb that heat.

Since dark shingles absorb more heat, folks in cold climates may help offset cold climate heating costs with darker shingle colors. Dark shingles may also reduce the visibility of blue-green algae stains, if you haven't already chosen a shingle with a warranty against algae discoloration.

Happy Hood

Look around your neighborhood while selecting your new shingle color. What are the popular architectural styles in your area? Do you want to blend in or stand out? Be sure to take local building codes and requirements into account as well.

Boost Home Resale Value

Investing in a new roof may bring you a larger home sale down the line. In fact, a recent report by the National Association of Realtors found that home sellers recovered 107% of the value of new roofing remodeling projects.

Potential homebuyers will likely be turned off by damaged and stained roofs. However, even a new roof could negatively impact a homebuyer's decision if the color doesn't appeal to them. A unique color can make your roof pop, but some choices could be jarring or reduce your home's resale value. If you have a home sale in your future, consider a neutral shingle color that can complement a range of paint colors instead of a bold shingle color that you personally love but might not be for everyone.

The most economical shingle option when installing a new roof is a 3-tab shingle. That said, architectural shingles offer enhanced color and design options, as well as stronger warranties; therefore, they may be more appealing to potential buyers and offer greater returns on investment.

Follow a Shingle Shopping Checklist

Ready to get started shingle shopping? Save the shingle-buying checklist below and refer to it as you browse shingle options.

Style

Understand the style of your home. What are traditional color choices for your home's architecture?
Go for complementary colors. Choose home and roof colors that cooperate instead of clash. Pair cool paint with cool shingles and warm paint with warm-toned shingles.

Surroundings

Know the shingle availability in your region. Be sure shingles are available before falling in love.
Know your climate and location. Does hot, cold, or wet weather impact your color choice?
Mesh with the neighbors. Having a hard time deciding? Take local architecture and area color palettes into account.

Resale

Consider home goals. If you're planning to sell, avoid a statement roof and stay neutral.
Look at the whole house. A complementary house and roof color combination can boost your resale value.

Want to add new life to your home with an upgraded roof and shingle color? Consult with a shingle and roofing expert by connecting with a GAF Certified Contractor^**.

^*Energy cost savings are not guaranteed and may vary based on factors, such as climate zone, utility rates, and HVAC equipment efficiency.

^**Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products.

About the Author

Annie Crawford

Annie Crawford is a freelance writer in Oakland, CA, covering travel, style, and home improvement. Find more of her work at annielcrawford.com.

Your roof is a long-term investment that helps protect your family, may improve your home's resale value, and crowns your home's aesthetic so finding a contractor that is qualified is very important. To help you choose a roofing contractor with confidence, here are three qualities to look for.1. Professional Experience and ReputationBefore you hire, do your research. Choose a company based on experience and reputation—not just price. If you decide on price alone, you may not be making the best choice.RecommendationsWord-of-mouth from trusted sources is a great starting place. Ask neighbors, friends, and online community forums for referrals.ResearchVisit the company's website to determine the products and services it offers—as well as the number of years it's been in business. Then, verify the company is licensed and insured.ReviewsNext, read reviews from multiple online platforms to learn about customer experiences. Resources could include Google Reviews, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and the company's social media pages. While searching, look for info such as ease of interactions, professionalism during installation, cleanup after project completion, and overall satisfaction with the outcome.2. CertificationsFinding a contractor certified by a manufacturer typically indicates that a contractor has met the certification requirements of the manufacturer. For example, contractors certified by GAF must be insured and licensed in states where they operate (if required). GAF also considers factors such as years of roofing experience, credit rating and overall standing with the Better Business Bureau.Higher tiers of certification may be allowed to offer better enhanced warranties on qualifying roofing systems. For example GAF Master Elite® Contractors are entrusted to offer the GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty* on qualifying roofing systems, which provides up to 30 years of misapplication coverage.VerificationVerify contractor certifications whenever possible. For example, the GAF website lets you verify whether a company is certified by GAF by simply entering their phone number or contractor ID.AwardsIn addition to certifications, select contractors may also qualify for manufacturer awards. For example, the highest distinction a GAF Master Elite® contractor can earn is the GAF's President's Club Award. This award indicates that a contractor has demonstrated commitment to installing GAF roofing systems backed by GAF's strongest warranties and dedication to learning about GAF's products and services.3. Operational ApproachAfter identifying several contractors, consider these talking points when interviewing the contractors:ExperienceAsk the contractor whether it has experience installing roofs on the type of roof architecture you have.AvailabilityWhen do you need the project to start, and when can the company actually do the installation? If your roofing needs are urgent (leaks, damage, etc.), make sure they can perform the work in the timeframe you are looking for.EstimateAsk the contractor to provide you with an estimate. As a preliminary step, try using GAF's estimate tool. However, keep in mind that the estimate provided by the tool is non-binding and contractors will provide their own estimates. Review actual estimates from contractors closely to understand what is included. The cheapest option is not always the best. Consider experience, and reputation, too.Payment OptionsAsk your contractor about payment options, including payment and financing options to make sure you choose the best option for you.Starting Your SearchPrioritizing these qualities when looking for a contractor may help you find the right company for the job.Are you ready for a new roof? Find a GAF certified roofing contractor** today.*See GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.**Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

A group of local GAF employees in Burgaw, North Carolina, is making a difference for veterans and the community as a whole. In 2024 alone, Veteran Involvement Brings Excellence (VIBE) has undertaken several initiatives to give back to Burgaw as well as all who live and work there.Bill Price, GAF production supervisor II at the Burgaw manufacturing plant, is the champion for the group. He recently sat down to discuss VIBE's latest projects and share insight into its motivations.What Is the VIBE ERG at GAF?VIBE is an employee resource group (ERG) available for all GAF employees. It focuses on the needs of veterans who work at GAF, provides a place for employees to share their experiences, and helps foster opportunities for them to give back to their communities.Each GAF plant has a VIBE group and facility leader that organizes the team. GAF leadership supports each group and its community efforts.The VIBE ERG's mission is to create a supportive environment for veterans and active duty members from all military branches. The group's core values are integrity, duty, honor, and respect. VIBE provides personal support for members and helps them manage the realities of being a veteran, such as applying for benefits.Each VIBE group can work on or be involved in whatever projects they wish. While their primary focus is to support veterans, they also strive to give back to the local communities they live and work in.VIBE Projects in BurgawThe VIBE ERG at the Burgaw plant meets regularly to discuss the activities they want to get involved in. This year, the group has participated in several projects:17 GAF-employed veterans volunteered for the second annual Habitat for Humanity veteran's build, which GAF donated roofing materials for.Team members participated in a food and clothing drive for a local women's shelter.A local veteran service officer visited the plant to help workers learn about—and gain access to—benefits and resources.In honor of Memorial Day, VIBE provided an opportunity for volunteers to place flags at veterans' tombstones at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery and Wilmington National Cemetery.That's not all the group has planned for. Future initiatives include hosting Toys for Tots at the plant, adopting a highway in honor of veterans, representing GAF at a booth for the Burgaw Blueberry Festival, and continuing to support local veterans in need.How VIBE Impacts GAF and the CommunityThe Burgaw facility, which employs about 247 people, has one of the largest veteran groups within GAF, totaling 28 members. The facility manufactures ventilation products, such as roof vents, foundation vents, turbines, and heating and cooling ductwork."The group has brought the veterans at the plant together to work toward a common goal and also given everyone the comradery they were accustomed to from when they were in the service," Price says. "I think this has had an impact not only on the employees involved but also on the plant as a whole. All of us involved enjoy being part of the team and giving back to those in need."Price notes that each project the group has been a part of has been well received. "We received many thanks from the families that were receiving assistance from the Habitat build and also from the staff at the local women's shelter during the food and clothing drive," he says. "I have no doubt that as we continue to be involved with more events within the community, it will only get better."Giving Back While Looking AheadGAF believes in giving back to its employees and the communities they work in. VIBE is just one of seven GAF ERGs making a difference in team members' lives and those most important to them.Curious to learn more about the opportunities and culture at GAF? Visit our GAF Careers page.

As part of its mission to build resilient communities, GAF Community Matters has supported Puerto Rico hurricane recovery efforts through roofing material donations, roof installation trainings, and team members' hard work. This has had a multifaceted impact on the island and the people who call it home.Hurricane Maria Hit HardHurricane recovery services are needed as urgently today as they were in 2017 when Hurricane Maria struck, leaving behind 15-foot deep floodwaters, about $90 billion in damage, an estimated 2,975 lives lost, and the longest power outage in US history. For 11 months, residents waited for electricity to be fully restored.Short-term disaster relief poured in post-storm. But years after the news cycles ended, Puerto Rico still remains—metaphorically—underwater. Schools and hospitals have fallen into hurricane-related disrepair, and insufficient fixes to the power grid cause frequent blackouts and brownouts.To make matters worse, hurricane-damaged homes that weren't repaired suffer compound damage from years of subsequent storms and exposure.Puerto Ricans Stand StrongThe people of Puerto Rico are strong and proud, determined to rebuild. However, the availability of needed resources poses a considerable challenge.For many, the funds needed to repair an unsafe roof are simply out of reach. Economic opportunities are scarce, and the government is heavily in debt. The US Census Bureau reported that 42% of Puerto Rican people are in poverty.Unfortunately, lower-income Puerto Rican households most vulnerable to Hurricane Maria were also least able to recover from the financial strain of repairing storm damage. With wind speeds up to 155 mph, extensive flash flooding, and wind tunnels ripping through the mountainous terrain, homes throughout this area were no match for the Category 4 hurricane.GAF Helps Build ResilienceTo help those impacted, GAF partnered with Team Rubicon, local nongovernmental organizations, and community members through the GAF Community Matters initiative to assist in Puerto Rico hurricane recovery. Since hurricane Maria recovery efforts began in 2017, GAF has donated materials for over 500 roofs and helped install them, bringing relief and shelter to families all over the island.This work has meant more to this community than just keeping their homes dry. Mr. Alfredo—a homeowner who received a new GAF roof—said, "There is nothing more important in life than to have a place to come home to, spend quality time in, sit, and be at peace."For all of Puerto Rico's strength and perseverance, many families still live in unsafe conditions due to hurricanes. GAF can't stop storms, but it can help build resilience.To that end, in addition to installing roofs, GAF, through the GAF Community Matters initiative and GAF Roofing Academy program, provided free roof installation trainings to local organizations in vulnerable Puerto Rican communities. Educating communities on roof installation creates a greater ability to adapt and bounce back when the next storm hits.Joining the Effort for GoodIn addition to its focus on roofing innovation, GAF remains committed to partnering with local organizations to build resilience in communities across the country. Team members will continue to donate time and materials to support and strengthen communities wherever the need may be.Curious to learn more about this project and other initiatives GAF is involved in? Explore GAF Community Matters.

Don't miss another GAF RoofViews post!

Subscribe now