As humans, it’s in our DNA to migrate to new places. We rarely ever stay put for too long. The only issue that comes with following our instincts is, well, what do we do with our homes when we’re ready for a new adventure? Whether you’re leaving on a whim and are curious about your home’s resale value, or you’re a new homeowner planning for the future, it’s essential to take a look at your roof. Believe it or not, the color of your roof (among other things, of course) will play a big part in its potential value.
RoofCrafters has been installing and replacing different types and color combinations of roofing for the past 3 decades, so if there’s anything we know, it’s that this color stuff matters! We keep up with the latest trends, colors, and technologies, so all you have to worry about is what beach you’ll be choosing to reside on next.
To make things a little easier on you, we’ve written this guide that breaks down what color roof is best for resale, and how you’ll get the most value for your money. Here, you’ll learn about color schemes, combinations, location, and of course, personal preference! It’s your roof, after all. So, let’s dive right in.
Optimal Roof Colors for Enhancing Resale Value
Yes, it's true that certain color schemes on our homes appeal more to buyers. Neutral color palettes have proven to be safe choice. But you may be asking, what is the best color roof for resale?
Whew, you sure know how to ask a loaded question. Before we can answer this big one, there are a few important things to ask yourself:
- What is the style of your home?
- What are the other elements that will compliment the roof? (Siding, bricks, stucco, doors, etc.)
- What type of material would you use for your roof?
- What is the pitch or steepness of your roof?
You wouldn’t go out to your favorite restaurant wearing a red flannel shirt, purple polka-dot pants, and a yellow sombrero, would you?
As important as it is to make sure your outfits match, it’s equally important to do the same for your roof and your home. Always ensure the style of your home matches the style of the new roof. Even more so when you are considering selling the house.
Are you the modern type? Or do you find pleasure in a more rustic, woodsy style? Believe it or not, these are the important questions you need to be asking yourself. The type of material you choose depends on what look you want to achieve.
Just as you want your color schemes to match, the pitch and style of your roof will clash with certain materials. The steepness of your roof, as well as your roof’s style, will help you determine the right colors and materials that should ultimately be used.
The Aesthetic of Your Home Matters
Here are some more things you should consider when choosing the color of your home roofing system to amp up its resale value:
Strategic Color Choices: Light vs. Dark Roofing
When choosing a color scheme, we always like to ask you first. After all, it is a personal preference. So, what do you like better? A contrast or a blend?
A contrast would be a light-colored home paired with a dark roof, such as asphalt shingles. Think of a white home, with a black roof. Chic, huh?
Now, how about a dark-colored home and a light roof? Perhaps a blue home paired with a white roof. That sounds pretty cool, huh?
You can also choose to do a blend. A blend is where we match the roof as close as we can to the color of the exterior of the home. An example of this would be a grey stucco home and a grey shingle or metal roof.
Another popular option of color schemes is the combo. A combo is a mixture of light and dark, so that it creates a contract, and it also blends with the exterior of the home.
One more option, before we move to the next section. This is a combo of colors and a mixture of roofing materials with shingle and metal roofing. Better known as metal accents. As you can see, these metal accents provide curb appeal with roof color, which will help adds value to your home.
Thmetal accents
Evaluating Your Home's Aesthetic for Roof Color Selection
You must evaluate the structure and color of your home before choosing the roof’s color. It can be beneficial if you are planning to repaint your home when replacing or constructing the roof. This will help you create eye-catching combinations and earn your money’s worth upon reselling.
The color of the roof will either shift the potential buyer’s focus or grab it. Therefore, whatever roof color you pick, it is a great idea to have a plan of what you are doing with the rest of the exterior siding and color before selecting your new roof color. No pressure, just something to think about.
Roof and Exterior Home Color Combinations
If you don’t know which colors look good together or what colors clash, we’ve created a list of common color combinations that you can try. Let’s take a look at what they are:
- White. White is, without a doubt, one of the most versatile colors. For this reason, if your home is white, you can choose any roof color that you’d like. Nothing clashes with white.
- Cream. If your home is along the lines of cream and taupe, hues of blue, black, green, or gray will look great.
- Wooden. Wood comes in many different shades and colors. Typically, wooden homes look great with black, green, gray, blue, or even brown roofs.
*Pro-tip: when picking a roof color for a wooden home, remember to keep it simple and pick a color that diverts everyone’s attention to other property elements*
- Red. Red is a bright color, so it’s better to pair it with lighter, more subtle shades. Usually, red looks great with white or light gray hues.
- Gray. If your home is gray, the safest bet would be to install a black or gray roof. Other colors, such as white or pewter would also look great.
- Easter Egg Colors. If your house is a vibrant color, (yes, think easter egg colors like green, yellow, purple, blue, pink,) your go-to color is black! If you want a metal roof, a mill finish, or silver metal will also compliment the exterior color.
The Influence of Location on Roof Color Decision
The location of your home will help determine the colors that would look best for your roofing system. In addition to the weather, you must also look at the type of sunlight and vegetation in your area.
A lighter color roof will help reflect the heat in warmer zones, whereas, in colder regions, a dark roof will help absorb heat and keep your home warm. Additionally, the type of landscape you have around you will also play a factor in choosing the right color for your roof.
What is Your Personal Color Palette Preference?
Cruise around your neighborhood and take a mental note of the style and design preferences that you like. It could also be helpful to create a board of ideas and discuss roof color impact on home value with a professional roofer. Bright vibrant colors are personal. Which means a buyer may not love the color.
If there’s anything you’ll take from this article, simply remember to match the style of your home with that of the roof. You can always re-paint your home later on, however, it’s much more difficult to get an entirely new roof installed.
If your home is chic and modern, don’t go for outdated and ancient color themes. In contrast, if your home is made with bricks and has dated architecture, it’s better to match the roofing with something that will complement that particular style. Your potential buyers will thank you.
Considering Future Trends in Roof Color Selection
When selecting a roof color, it's crucial to think beyond the present. Roofing is a long-term investment, and what's trendy today might not be in a decade. Choosing timeless colors ensures that your home appeals to future buyers, regardless of passing fads. Consider neutral tones like charcoal, grays, beiges, and slate. Their versatility and enduring appeal are always favored.
Also, stay informed about new home exterior trends and sustainable materials. Energy-efficient roofing is gaining popularity. By aligning your roof color with future-proof trends, you're not only enhancing curb appeal. You're also investing in the long-term marketability of your home.
The Psychological Impact of Roof Colors on Buyers
The color of your roof protects your home from the elements. It also evokes an emotional response from potential buyers. Amazingly, colors have the power to influence mood and perception.
Dark tones like black or deep blue can impart a sense of stability and authority. This makes your home appear sturdy and reliable. Lighter shades, such as beige or soft green, can make a home feel welcoming and harmonious. They resonate with buyers looking for a peaceful retreat!
Consider the psychological impact of your roof color. Also, consider how it complements the aesthetic of your home. Thoughtfully choose your roof color! It can subtly sway the buyer's emotions. This makes your property more appealing and could speed up the sale process.
What Color Roof Should I Choose If I Plan to Sell My Home?
Whichever color your heart desires! In the end, we buy homes to enjoy living in them, not constantly thinking about reselling them and moving on. Even if it is always in the back of our paleolithic minds. There’s no right or wrong color to choose, we promise.
If you’re someone who needs a more technical answer, this article explains that roofs with good resale value tend to be neutral-colored. This includes tan, brown, black, and gray. These colors tend to stay in style over time, along with roofs including shingles that are mixed with different color combinations of browns, blacks, and grays.
This guide is meant to point you in the right direction. You know, if you are a flannel, purple polka-dot pant, yellow sombrero-wearing type of person. Some color schemes simply look better together than others, as well as material types and roof pitch.
Now that you know which colors are best for you. Are you’re ready to get the best bang for your buck and put your home up on the market? To keep learning about your roof, check out our Homeowners Guide to Roof Replacement. This free guide will surely help you better understand the roof replacement process.
