How to choose the best roofing colour for your home

Installing a new roof isn’t like choosing a new wall colour. Adding a new roof is an investment that is set to last decades – up to 70 years, in fact!

So, it’s important that you consider all factors, before you decide which roof is the best match for your property.

Of course, materials, performance and durability are all key considerations. But, don’t forget to assess the colour of your roof options. Not only does the roof’s colour have a dramatic influence on the overall look and feel of your property, but it can also have a major impact on your home’s overall curb appeal.

In this guide, B&S Roofing’s team of professional roofers have shared their top tips for choosing the right roof colour for your property. This includes a breakdown of all the key factors to weigh up before you make your final decision.

close up view of roof tiles

In what instances is a new roof needed?

A full roof replacement isn’t a particularly common requirement for properties.

In most usual circumstances, a property would only need a full roof replacement once every 40-70 years (depending on the conditions and how well it is maintained).

The most common instances where we a new roof installation required include:

New build properties – With the initial build of a property
If an existing roof has reached the end of its predicted lifespan
If an existing roof has been damaged (e.g. in a major storm)
If an extension is being added to the property
If there is major renovation work being conducted (e.g. a loft conversion)
If a legacy roof is being upgraded (e.g. to improve insulation or add solar panels)
If the owners want to replace the legacy roof, to improve the overall aesthetics of the house

Why is choosing the right roof colour important?

Did you know that a whopping 68% of homebuyers say that curb appeal is a critical factor when choosing a property?

What’s more, Forbes reported that homes with a high curb appeal are known to sell for around 7% more.

So, carefully choosing the right colour for your roof is a key part of preserving (and even increasing) the long-term value of your property.

Beyond resale and curb appeal, the roof is one of the most visible parts of a property. It is one of the most significant parts of a property’s exterior, and so plays a major role in defining its character, visual style and overall attractiveness.

Getting the colour right is key, because the right roof design:

Increases kerb appeal
Creates a strong first impression
Ensures your home blends in well with its surroundings
Aligns with your home’s interior style
Serves as a strong long-term investment (irrespective of changing fashions and trends)

What to consider when choosing your roof colour

The other colours of your home’s exterior

The roof needs to complement the rest of the exterior, including the walls and brickwork, plus windows and doors.

For light homes – A darker roof (dark grey or black) often pairs well
For warm-toned brick walls – Brown, red or terracotta roofs are a good match for the existing colour palette
For neutral exteriors – Most colours are compatible

The architectural style

Traditional homes – Opt for classic roof colours, like black, brown, slate or clay
Modern homes – Grey and anthracite are classic modern roof colours. Or, you could choose a roof that achieves a bold visual contrast
Rural homes – Avoid clashing black or grey roofs, and look for earthy brown colours

Surroundings and location

Urban areas – Typically best suit neutral colours and modern roof styles
Countryside areas – Natural, muted and earthy colours avoid jarring clashes, and create a harmonious feel
Coastal or exposed areas – Lighter roof shades are a great way to harmonise with the bright sea and sun
Local or regional regulations – In some instances, you might find that the options for roof colours are restricted by local regulation (e.g. prohibiting the use of extremely dark or bold colours).

If you don’t want to choose a roof that blends into the landscape, make sure your roof stands out in an artful way, with the overall effect carefully controlled and considered.

Performance

It’s important to note that different colours can have a direct impact on the roof’s performance.

Energy efficiency and heat absorption – While dark colours absorb more heat (making them a great choice for colder areas), light colours reflect sunlight (so are ideal for keeping houses cool in warmer conditions).
Maintenance requirements – While dark roofs can fade over time, light roofs don’t show dust or dirt as starkly. But, light roofs can make moss or algae growth more visible. So, you should weigh up these considerations based on what issues properties in your area are most at risk of (and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit).

At B&S Roofing, we are professional roofing contractors with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We’re trusted by property owners across Nottingham, Derby and the surrounding areas, to help them find the perfect roof for their property.

So, to explore the roof colours available in our extensive range, or to get tailored guidance for your property, don’t hesitate to get in touch.