Let’s talk about your roof. No, or asphalt shingle dark roof color for your roof red roof, not the one above your head protecting you from the rain—though, we’ll get to that part, too. Today, we’re diving into the fun (yes, fun!) world of choosing the perfect NEW shingle color for your home. Whether you want to make a bold statement, blend in with the neighborhood, or boost your curb appeal, the right shingle color is essential to your home’s look.

And if you live in Colorado, where the weather can go from sunny to snowy faster than a Rockies game gets done because of poor pitching, the right color can even have a significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency. So, buckle up, friends—we’re about to take your roof from drab to fab with this roofing design guide.

Ready to make some decisions? Let’s get started!

1. Consider Your Home’s Style: What’s Your Vibe?

First, choosing a shingle color is all about balancing aesthetics with functionality. And just like picking out an outfit for the day, matching the shingle color with your home’s style is essential. If you’ve ever seen a wild mismatch between a house and its roof (think neon green shingles on a Tudor-style home), you know what I mean when I say “it matters.”

• Traditional or Classic Style Homes: If you live in a traditional home (think Colonial, Cape Cod, or Craftsman), you’ll want shingles that complement your home’s natural charm. Neutral colors like charcoal or asphalt shingle gray, brown or black roof shingles, or even weathered wood or black will give your roof a sleek, timeless look. These colors work well with various architectural styles, giving you the perfect blend of elegance and durability. Note: A black roof can be hot during summer, increasing energy consumption. If you want a black roof, talk to your project manager about adding additional venting, such as a ridge vent and deck intakes, to mitigate the potential increase in heat in your attic.
• Modern or Contemporary Homes: For the sleek, modern look, lighter shades of gray, silver, or even black can help create a minimalist, chic vibe. Contemporary homes often have clean lines and open spaces, so choosing a roofing color that enhances simplicity is key. Think of it like pairing a little black dress with a statement necklace—the roof is the backdrop, but it still needs to look polished.
• Rustic or Mountain Cabins: If you’re living in the mountains or a log cabin in Colorado (lucky you!), earthy tones like brown, rust, tan, or sandstone will blend beautifully with the natural surroundings. The favorite colors on the front range are “weathered or natural wood.” It’s the most popular in most brands of shingles and goes well with any paint color scheme. These colors can make your home look like it was built to stand the test of time and blend seamlessly into the landscape. Plus, these tones help hide dirt or debris, which is a bonus when your roof is exposed to Mother Nature’s mood swings.
• Victorian or Historic Homes with a shingle roof: For homeowners of Victorian-style homes or other historic properties, choose a color that complements the intricate detailing. Slate gray or Weathered Wood can add a touch of sophistication without stealing the show. When in doubt, go for classic, slightly muted shades that won’t clash with your home’s personality. These can enhance your home’s resale value.
• Farmhouses or Cottage Homes: Farmhouses and cottages are known for their warmth and charm. A rich, warm gray, charcoal, or brownish shingle can give your home a cozy, inviting feel. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can play with two-tone shingles that mix light and dark shades for extra flair!

2. Location, Location, Location: How Your Surroundings Play a Role

What works in downtown Denver may not be the best choice for a house in the foothills of the Rockies. Your roof color should complement your home and take your location into account. Let your surroundings guide you, whether in the city, the country, or the mountains.

• Urban Areas (Like Denver or Boulder): If you live in a busy urban area, your home might be one of many in a row. In this case, your roof should stand out enough to be noticed without clashing with your neighbors. Dark grays, black roof shingles, and charcoal colors are popular in cities because they offer a sleek, modern, sophisticated, timeless feel. Urban areas tend to have more neutral tones in buildings, so your roof color can help your home maintain a balanced, stylish look.
• Mountain or Rural Locations: In Colorado, if you’re lucky enough to have a home in the mountains (we see you, mountain dwellers!), you’ll want your roof to blend with the natural environment. Choose earthy, natural tones like brown, green, tan, or rust. These colors will make your home feel more integrated into the environment and stand up well to dirt, snow, and the occasional dust storm. In rural areas, it’s less about standing out and more about complementing your natural surroundings.
• If you have found this blog from a Coastal Areas (If You’re Not in Colorado, but Dreaming of It):
  If you live in a coastal area (lucky you, not in Colorado, but perhaps just dreaming about it), lighter shingle colors like beige, light gray, Silverwood, or weathered wood can help your home’s relaxed, beachy aesthetic. They also help reflect sunlight, which is key in places with much sun exposure. (And in coastal areas, moisture resistance is super important!).

3. The Secret Impact of Color: Energy Efficiency and Home Comfort

Yes, you read that right. Your shingle color can have an impact on your home’s energy efficiency. While it’s easy to get caught up in how your roof will look, remember that dark shingles absorb heat, and light shingles reflect it. Depending on the climate, you might pick a shingle color that helps keep your house warm or cool.

• Lighter Colors (Energy Saving, Hello!): In warmer climates or during Colorado summers, light-colored shingles like light gray, beige, or white/silverwood can help reflect the sun’s heat, keeping your home cooler and reducing air conditioning costs. But don’t worry—Colorado’s not all sunshine. Light-colored shingles still hold up well during our cooler months, too.
• Darker Colors (The Winter Advantage): On the flip side, dark shingles like black or charcoal absorb more heat, which can help keep your home warmer during the colder months. If you’re braving a snowy Colorado winter, dark shingles can help melt snow and ice faster, preventing ice dams and offering better traction for ice-melting systems.
• The Sweet Spot: So, what’s the secret? In Colorado, where temperatures fluctuate wildly, medium-tone shingles—shades of gray, brown, or even weathered wood—offer a nice balance. These colors perform well year-round, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer without making your home look like a fire-breathing dragon.

4. Trends in Roofing Shingle Colors: What’s Hot Right Now?

You’re probably wondering: what’s in regarding roofing shingle colors? Well, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a peek into the latest trends to help inspire you:

• Bold, Darker Shades: Darker shingles, like charcoal or black, have become trendy in modern homes. These shades are perfect for homeowners looking to make a bold statement and can lend a clean, sleek look to your property. Bonus: they pair perfectly with modern architectural elements like steel, glass, or wood, making your shingle color choice even more impactful.
• Two-Tone Roofs: If you want to add some dimension to your roof, why not experiment with asphalt or two-tone shingles? Combining light and dark shades (such as light grays with charcoal) can create a visually engaging, textured roof that stands out. Think of it as the “ombre” effect for your roof.
• Weathered or Aged Tones: Rustic homes, especially those in rural or mountainous areas, embrace weathered or aged tones. These colors mimic natural wood or stone, making your roof look like it’s been part of the landscape for years. It’s a perfect fit for mountain homes that need to blend in with nature.
• Green and Earth Tones: Green shingles are becoming a trendy choice for homes in natural or wooded settings. Shades of olive or forest green bring a nice harmony between the natural world and your home, and they’re perfect for homes nestled into hillsides or surrounded by trees.

Other Popular Questions We Get About Popular Colors for Roofing Materials

Q: How do I choose the best roof color for my home?

A: To choose the best roof color for your home, consider the existing house color and the overall style of your home. Look at popular roof shingle colors in your area and consider how the color you choose complements your exterior.

Q: What are the popular roof shingle colors for asphalt roofing shingles?

A: Some popular roof shingle colors include classic colors like black, gray, and brown, as well as lighter shades like beige and tan. Darker colors can provide a striking contrast with lighter house colors, while lighter roofs can help keep your home cooler.

Q: How does your chosen color impact my home’s curb appeal?

A: The color you choose for your roof can significantly affect your home’s curb appeal. A well-chosen roof color can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a harmonious look with your house color and landscaping.

Q: Should I consider resale value when choosing the right shingle color?

A: Yes, resale value is an essential factor to consider when choosing the right shingle color. Neutral and classic colors appeal to a broader range of buyers, whereas unique or bold colors may limit your audience.

Q: How can I pick the right roof color that matches my house and roof color combinations?

A: To choose the right roof color, create a color palette that includes your house and potential roof colors. Use color design software or consult a roofing contractor to visualize how combinations will look together.

Q: What is the best roof color for energy efficiency?

A: Lighter roof colors, such as white or light gray, are generally the best for energy efficiency. They reflect sunlight and help keep your home cooler. Dark colors absorb heat, which can increase cooling costs in warmer climates.

Q: How does the choice of shingle color affect the longevity of my roof?

A: The color of your shingles can impact the temperature of your roof. Darker roofs may experience higher temperatures, leading to faster wear and tear. Choosing a lighter shingle color can help extend the lifespan of your roofing materials.

Q: What should I consider when choosing the right shingle color for my roof inspection?

A: When preparing for a roof inspection, consider how the shingle color affects the visibility of damage or wear. Lighter colors may show dirt more efficiently, while darker colors can hide some imperfections. Ensure that the color you choose is practical for maintenance and inspection purposes.

Q: Are specific GAF shingle colors recommended for certain climates?

A: GAF offers a variety of shingle colors suitable for different climates. Lighter colors are recommended for warmer areas to reflect heat, while darker shingles may be preferred for their heat-absorbing properties. Always check with your roofing contractor for the best options.

Final Thoughts: Your Roof, Your Style!

Choosing the right shingle color is more than just picking something that looks nice (though that’s important!). Your roof color should reflect your home’s personality, blend with the surrounding environment, and—let’s not forget—help with energy efficiency.

When in doubt, consider your home’s style, the local climate, and the trends that are popping up in your area. Whether you want to go bold with dark tones, keep it classic with neutral grays, or blend in with nature using earthy hues, the perfect shingle color awaits you.

If you’re ready to start your roof makeover, contact Denny’s Roofing, which offers the best roof options for your needs., your local roofing experts in Colorado. We’ll help guide you through the color choices, the energy-saving options, and, most importantly, make sure your new roof fits your home’s vibe like a glove. Because, let’s be honest, your roof should look as good as it works.

Are you looking for roof advice or help choosing the perfect shingle color? Contact Denny’s Roofing today for a free consultation. Your dream roof is just a call away.