Has a recent hailstorm wreaked havoc on your roof? If the shingles are more than a couple of decades old, it’s probably worthwhile to have your roof replaced. The material is the first choice you have to make.

In Colorado, asphalt shingles and tile roofing are popular because they’re both economical and durable. If you decide to take this route, the next step is to select a color.

With more color variety than ever before, your choices seem nearly endless. Don’t make your choice lightly, for it could impact everything from your home’s appearance to energy bills to HOA compliance. If you feel overwhelmed, follow this ultimate cheat sheet to help narrow down your selection.

Consider Your Climate

Have you ever considered that shingle color affects your energy bills? Light colors reflect the sun so less heat enters the attic. Dark colors absorb heat and help keep your home warmer on sunny winter days.

Colorado has cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. When a roof is covered with snow, dark shingles can’t absorb heat from the sun, making them worthless. If you have little to no rooftop shading in the summer, light shingles could be very beneficial for lowering your cooling load.

Of course, attic insulation levels and ventilation rates are the most important factors in determining how much heat trapped in your attic affects your energy bills. This means, as long as you insulate and ventilate properly, you can choose either light or dark shingle installation without a tremendous effect on your energy bills.

Think About Your Home’s Appearance

You want the roof to match the rest of your home’s aesthetics. What colors and materials are used elsewhere on your home’s exterior? If the siding is painted a cool color, a roof with a blue tint might be the most complimentary. If the siding is brown or another earth tone, warm-tinted shingles could be a better choice.

Color isn’t the only consideration. Your home’s style also comes into play. For instance, Tudor-style homes tend to have dark, almost black roofs. Homes built in the Cape Cod style may have lighter roofs. And if you have a Spanish-style home, you should rethink your asphalt shingle choice, since this style traditionally has clay tile shingles.

Check with Your HOA

If you’re part of a homeowner’s association, you may have to abide by certain rules. You also need to consider how your shingle choice will look alongside your neighbors’ homes. Before you commit to one roofing material or color, contact your HOA to uncover the rules that govern your roofing choices.

In the end, a professional contractor can help you make the right roofing recommendations based on all these needs. To get the process started, please contact 5280 Exteriors in Denver today for a free service quote.