Things To Consider When Choosing A Color For Your Roof
How do you go about choosing a color for your new roof? Some people simply examine a variety of color options, choose one that matches their siding, and call it a day. There's nothing inherently wrong with this approach, but if you are someone who likes to make more careful, planned-out decisions, this approach is incomplete. Here are some additional things you should consider when choosing a roofing color for your home.
Sun Reflection
Do you know how you get warmer when you wear a dark-colored shirt versus a light-colored one? This is because the dark color absorbs more sunlight, while the light color reflects more sunlight. The same is true of a roof. Darker roofs absorb more sunlight, so your home will get hotter (and your energy bills will be higher) in the summer. Light roofs reflect more sun, leading to a cooler home and lower AC bills. In a less-sunny area, the difference may not be huge, but in a really sunny area, you can save a bundle with a lighter-colored roof.
Algae Appearance
If you live in a moist climate, you are likely to get algae growth on your roof. Algae, unlike moss, is not overly destructive to roofs. However, it can leave black or very dark green streaks down them. If you have a dark-colored roof, these streaks will not be that obvious. If you have a lighter roof, they will be quite obvious. You can have a roof treated for algae, but that will be an extra expense – so keep that in mind if you choose a light-colored roof for a home in the shade.
Contrast With Neighboring Homes
What color roofs do the homes next to yours and across the street from yours have? If you want your home to blend in, then you want to choose a roof that is a similar color. If you want to stand out, then you want to choose a roof that's a different color. This is really a matter of preference and also a matter of how your neighborhood tends to operate. In some neighborhoods, the community members generally opt for a uniform look, and in others, everyone likes to be original.
Take your time when choosing a roof color for your home. If you consider the factors above, you stand a greater chance of deciding on a color that you enjoy not just now, but also years down the road.
Contact a roofing company to learn more.