Metal roofs have become a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. However, one of the biggest decisions when it comes to metal roofing is choosing the right color.
In this guide, we will go over the factors to consider when picking the right metal roof color, and how to choose a color that will complement your home’s architecture and surrounding environment.
1. Consider Your Home’s Architecture and Style
The first factor to consider when choosing a roof color is your home’s architecture and style. Your roof color should complement the style of your home and its architectural elements. For example, a traditional colonial-style home may look best with a classic dark gray or black roof, while a contemporary-style home may look better with a lighter color such as light gray or beige.
Roof steepness or pitch is another important factor to consider. A roof with a shallow slope will look somewhat more prominent with a darker color, while a steeper roof on single-story home ranch house may look overpowering with a darker-color.
Tip: Make sure you look beyond the color, and consider the style or profile of metal roof itself. For example, metal roofs for homes come in different profiles and styles including standing seam, metal shingles, tiles, and more. For a more traditional look, you will want to go with either metal shingles or tiles, while standing seam will be more suitable for highlighting modern architectural lines of your home and/or for that rugged cabin look.
2. Take into Account Your Home’s Surroundings
Another important factor to consider is your home’s surrounding environment. You want to choose a roof color that will blend in well with the natural surroundings and not clash with the surrounding trees, flowers, and other landscaping elements. For example, if your home is surrounded by a forest, a dark green metal roof color may blend in well, while a bright blue roof may stand out and look out of place.
3. Think About Energy Efficiency
When choosing a metal roof color, it is important to think about energy efficiency as well. Lighter colored roofs reflect more sunlight, which can help to reduce your home’s cooling costs during the summer months. On the other hand, darker colored roofs absorb more heat, which can make your home’s interior feel warmer during the winter months.
Tip: Look for CoolRoof SRI (CRRC solar reflectance index) rating. The higher the score for your group/category of metal roofing products, the more energy-efficient a given color will be, helping keep your home cooler and more energy-efficient.
4. Look at Your Home’s Existing Colors
Another factor to consider when choosing a metal roof color is your home’s existing colors. You want to choose a color that complements your home’s siding, trim, and other exterior features. For example, if your home has a brick exterior, a red metal roof color may complement the brick well, while a yellow metal roof may not look as good.
5. Check Your Homeowner’s Association Guidelines
If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, it is important to check their guidelines before choosing a metal roof color. Some homeowner’s associations have strict rules about roof colors, so you want to make sure that your chosen color is allowed before making a final decision.
6. Use a Roof Color Visualizer
One of the best ways to choose the right metal roof color is to use a roof color visualizer. A roof color visualizer allows you to see what your home would look like with different roof colors, so you can choose the one that looks best. You can find roof color visualizers online or through a roofing contractor.
7. Consider a Color and Paint Finish Warranty
When choosing a color for your metal roof, it is important to consider whether the color has a warranty. Some manufacturers offer warranties on their paint, which can give you peace of mind knowing that your roof color will not fade or change over time. Kynar 500 and Hylar 5000 are considered the industry standard for high-end residential and commercial applications.
Tip: Look for a Kynar 500 or equivalent paint finish, if you want to have an energy-efficient and long-lasting roof and paint finish that won’t fade, chip, or peel. Avoid acrylic/polyester paint finishes for residential applicaitons.
8. Get Samples and Look at Them in Natural Light
Finally, it is a good idea to get samples of the roof colors you are considering and look at them in natural light. This will give you a better idea of what the color will look like on your home, and you can make a more informed decision.
9. Consider Your Home’s Location
Some local building codes like California’s Title 24, require residential roofing materials and colors to be rated by CRRC for all new construction and re-roofing projects. Make sure a given metal roof color has an SRI rating.
10. Consult with a Professional Metal Roofing Contractor
If you are still unsure about which metal roof color to choose, it may be helpful to consult with a professional roofing contractor. They will be able to give you better sense of what color may work best for your home, as well as show you real-world examples of metal roofs installed on other homes that are similar to yours.
FAQ
What is the most popular metal roof color?
The most popular metal roof color is a shade of gray and metallic, followed by black, brown. However, the popularity of metal roof colors can vary depending on regional and cultural preferences, as well as the architectural style of the building. Many homeowners will opt for more unique colors such as green, blue, and red to add a pop of color to their homes. Ultimately, the choice of metal roof color is a matter of personal preference and should complement the overall design of the building.
What is the best metal roof color for a red brick house?
A red brick house pairs well with a range of metal roof colors. A popular and timeless option is a dark gray or black roof, which provides a bold contrast and highlights the red brick. Another popular choice is a brown roof, which complements the warm tones of the brick. Some homeowners also opt for a lighter shade of gray or even a green roof, which can add a touch of nature and complement the surrounding landscape. Ultimately, the best metal roof color for a red brick house will depend on personal preference and the desired aesthetic.
How does the surrounding landscape affect the choice of a metal roof color?
The surrounding landscape can affect the choice of a metal roof color by creating visual contrasts or blending in with the environment. For example, a metal roof color that blends in with the color of the surrounding trees or foliage can help the roof to visually blend into the landscape. On the other hand, a metal roof color that provides a strong contrast to the surrounding landscape can help the roof to stand out and make a bold architectural statement. It is important to consider the overall look and feel of the property and surrounding area when choosing a metal roof color.
What are some tips for choosing a metal roof color that will last?
- Durability: Look for colors that have high resistance to fading, chalking, and peeling.
- Climate: Choose a color that is suitable for your local climate, as some colors may fade faster in hot and sunny climates.
- Roof slope: Consider the slope of your roof, as lighter colors may show more dirt and grime on steeper slopes.
- Energy efficiency: Light-colored roofs can reflect more heat, reducing your energy costs, especially in hot climates.
- Maintenance: Some colors may require more maintenance than others, so consider how much upkeep you are willing to do.
- Manufacturer’s warranty: Check the manufacturer’s warranty for the color you choose, as some may have a shorter lifespan than others.
How does the climate impact the longevity of metal roof color?
The climate can have a significant impact on the longevity of metal roof color. The intensity and frequency of sunlight, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and rain can all cause metal roof paint to fade, peel, or chalk. Extreme temperatures, high winds, and hail can also cause physical damage to the roof, which can further affect the color’s durability. Coastal areas with high salt content in the air may also accelerate the corrosion and degradation of the roof’s finish. To minimize the impact of climate on metal roof color, it’s important to choose high-quality paint finishes like Kynar 500 or equivalent that are specifically designed for durability and longevity.
What is the best roof color for a blue house?
It depends on personal preference, but a popular choice for a blue house is a light stone-coated metal roof in a color that matches the blue or a complementary color such as a light gray. Another option could be a darker shade of blue to match the house color or a metal roof in a dark bronze or brown to create a contrasting look.
What is the most durable metal roof color for a coastal home?
The most durable metal roof color for a coastal home is typically a light color, such as white or light gray. Light colors reflect more of the sun’s rays and keep the roof cooler, which reduces the likelihood of damage from UV rays and heat. Additionally, light colors can help reduce energy costs by lowering the amount of heat absorbed into the home.
What metal roof color goes well with a green landscape?
For a green landscape, a metal roof color that complements the surroundings well is a earth tone, such as forest green, brown, or even a shade of green that matches the foliage. Light stone or beige colors can also provide a neutral contrast to the landscape and complement the green. The final choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific shades of green in the landscape.
Can a metal roof color impact energy efficiency?
Yes, the color of a metal roof can impact energy efficiency. Lighter colors reflect more of the sun’s rays, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof and increasing energy efficiency. Darker colors absorb more heat, increasing the amount of heat transfer into the building and reducing energy efficiency. However, it is important to note that the energy efficiency impact of roof color can be mitigated by proper insulation, ventilation, and HVAC design.
What are some unconventional metal roof color options?
Some unconventional metal roof color options include:
- Patina green: A naturally occurring green color that forms on copper over time.
- Rust: A reddish-brown color that forms on metal surfaces exposed to moisture and air.
- Charcoal gray: A dark gray color that provides a sleek and modern look.
- Blue-gray: A cool and calming color that blends well with many architectural styles.
- Bronze: A warm, reddish-brown color that complements brick or stone exteriors.
These unconventional metal roof color options can add unique character to a building and differentiate it from more traditional roof color choices such as black, brown, and gray.