Choosing the colors and styles of the new shingles can be a tough decision.  This roof will be around for 20 to 50 years.  Take time to compare the options to make a decision you can enjoy for years.

Consider the climate and energy saving possibilities.  One study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Research Paper FPL–RP–543) found that the plywood decking of black roofs were 10°-15° warmer on sunny days than white roofs.  In darkness, the roof temperature was the same.  Typically, other colors show little to no difference in temperature.  A more significant factor, however, in roof temperature is proper ventilation.

Coordinate with the existing color of the home’s exterior.  While other exteriors and features can be changes, brick is permanent.  Roof color should work with the brick color first then consider the other features.  Don’t try to match the roof to the exterior exactly.  This will result in a boring, monotone look.  It is nearly impossible to match the colors exactly and one or the other may fade with time.  Go with colors that complement each other.  Gray or black shingle colors work well with gray and blue homes.  Homes that are shades of brown look best with brown, tan or a mix of the two.  If the home is white a gray or black roof gives it a traditional look.  Other colors can be more flexible and leave more options for personal taste.  If the existing or new exterior is varied in colors and shades, a less varied roof will prevent the overall look of the home from being too “busy”.  If the home exterior is plain, a multi-dimensional color adds interest.  Dark colors also tend to make the house look small where light colors make the house look larger or taller.

Get real life shingle samples and compare them at the actual home.  Look at them in different lighting, time of day, shade, and weather as these can change the tone of the shingle color.

Don’t just consider colors.  Complement the architecture of the home.  Be sure to match the shingle style with the architectural style of the house.  There are many different shingle styles available, simple 3-tab traditional, architectural or dimensional styles and luxury styles.  Some of these premium shingles mimic the look of other roofing materials such as slate or clay.

Shingles are the most common type of residential roofing material.  

Asphalt shingles are the less expensive than the other options like wood, slate or metal materials.  Shingle roofing need very little maintenance and therefore a low maintenance cost.  They are easy and inexpensive to repair.  Asphalt shingles are durable and long-lasting with many warrantied for 30-50 years.

Shingles are treated to be waterproof and keep moisture away from your roof structure.  This material is sturdy and flexible enabling it to fit many roof designs.  They are lightweight and suitable for almost any home structure.  Fire-resistant shingles help to protect your home.

Shingle roofs are easy to install.  A professional roofing contractor can install a new roof in just a couple of days.

Shingles come in a variety of colors, textures and designs.  The most common is the 3-tab design.  New architectural designer styles have a two-layer dimensional appeal and can mimic the look of other roofing materials.  There is a shingle look to match any home.  Click here to try some out with the Owens Corning® Design tool.

Roof designs vary greatly from low-slope to steep-pitch and any number of sides.  Each has their own challenges.  It is good to know what style roof you have.

Flat Roof - Just as the name suggests, a flat roof is just that.  Uncommon on residential buildings, flat roofs are the most commonly found on commercial structures.  They are prone to leaking since water does not quickly flow off the roof.  Heavy snow will sit on the roof and cause collapse.

Lean-to/Shed Roof - Simply one side with a slope, with varying pitch, this type of roof removes water quickly.

Gable Roof - This is the most common roof in residential construction. Most gables are between 4/12 and 8/12 pitch with the ridge across the center.

Hipped Roof -  A Hip roof has 4 sides and one ridge.  This style carries water quickly to the edges and provides good wind protection.

Gambrel Roof - This is similar to a traditional barn roof.  It has sides with different pitches which allows for more interior space.

Mansard Roof - This roof has steep side slopes and is flat on top. Often this roof has a second floor under the roof with dormers. Dormers are interruptions in the roof used to get windows into roofs. Normally this is done on a sloping attic area to increase standing room for bedrooms and to permit light or views

Cross Gabled Roof - This style roof has two or more gables that intersect creating a more interesting look.

Cross Hipped - For a cross hipped roof, the two hip roofs are laid out perpendicular to each other.


Craig Gouker Roofing has been installing quality residential roofing in South East Pittsburgh since 1991 and is the expert in shingle roof replacement.
www.craiggoukerroofing.com     (412)664-7679