How to Choose the Best Shingle Colour for Your Home

Introduction

Your roof isn’t just there to keep the rain (and snow) out; it’s basically your home’s hat. And just like a good hat, the colour you choose says a lot about your style. The problem? Unlike hats, roofs aren’t something you can swap out every season. Once you’ve picked your shingle colour, you’re living with it for 20–30 years. No pressure, right? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered (literally).

How to Match Shingle Colour With Exterior Design

Think of your roof as the “fifth wall” of your home. Its colour should complement everything else; the siding, the trim, the shutters, even your landscaping. Your roof doesn’t need to steal the spotlight, but it shouldn’t look like it showed up to the party in the wrong outfit either.

How to Create a Roof Colour Palette

A good trick is to limit your home’s palette to three colours:

1. Main colour: siding, brick, or stucco.
2. Accent colour: trim, doors, or shutters.
3. Roof colour: the anchor that ties it all together.

Pick too many colours, and suddenly your house looks like it’s auditioning for a circus tent.

Things to Consider When Choosing Shingle Colours

• Neighbourhood vibe: Want to stand out or blend in? A bright blue roof will definitely get you noticed…but maybe not in the way you want.
• HOA, bylaws or strata: Sometimes the choice is made for you (sorry).
• Longevity: Shingles are a long-term relationship. Choose something you’ll still love in 2035.
• Lighting: That “perfect grey” might look blue in morning sun and green on a cloudy day. Always check samples outside.

Does Roof Colour Affect Curb Appeal?

Since the roof makes up as much as 40% of your home’s exterior, the right colour can take your curb appeal from “meh” to “wow.” Even if you’re not planning to sell, pulling into a driveway that makes you smile is worth it.

Does Roof Colour Affect Resale Value?

If resale is in your future, neutrals are your best friend. Greys, browns, and charcoals tend to appeal to the widest audience. Think of it as the “little black dress” of roofing; timeless, flattering, and unlikely to go out of style.

What Are the Most Popular Shingle Colours?

Homeowners often gravitate toward:

• Charcoal (GAF, BP) – Modern and versatile.
• Weathered Wood (GAF, IKO) – Blended browns and greys for flexibility.
• Dual Black (IKO) – A crisp, classic black.
• Cobblestone Grey (CertainTeed) – Subtle grey with depth.
• Harvard Slate (IKO) – Dark brown tones with contrast.

What Are the Classic Shingle Colours?

Timeless shades that never go out of style include:

• Charcoal (GAF, BP) – Deep black-grey, sharp and modern.
• Weathered Wood (GAF, IKO) – A blend of browns and greys, very versatile.
• Dual Black (IKO) – A true, crisp black for a bold look.
• Georgetown Grey (CertainTeed) – Deep grey with a touch of warmth.

Should I Choose Neutral Shingle Colours?

If you want a safe bet, stick with neutrals. They’ll play nicely with whatever exterior updates you make down the road; new siding, a bold door colour, or even a landscaping overhaul.

Popular neutral shingle shades include:

• Pewter Grey (GAF, BP) – Soft, versatile grey.
• Driftwood (GAF, IKO) – Grey-brown blend for flexibility.
• Shakewood (GAF) or Earthtone Cedar (IKO) – Warm browns that pair well with brick or stucco.
• Cobblestone Grey (CertainTeed) – Classic grey with subtle depth.
• Georgetown Grey (CertainTeed) – Deeper grey with warmth.

Neutrals might not be flashy, but they’re like the jeans of roofing; classic, reliable, and they match with everything.

Are Brown Roof Shingles a Good Choice?

Warm, earthy tones that create an inviting look:

• Barkwood (GAF) – Rich, rustic brown.
• Harvard Slate (IKO) – Dark brown with depth and contrast.
• Autumn Brown (BP) – Medium brown, cozy and classic.

Brown shingles pair beautifully with stone, wood siding, or log homes.

Should My Roof Be Lighter or Darker Than the House?

One of the easiest ways to pick a shingle colour is to decide whether your roof should be lighter or darker than your siding. Contrast is your friend:

• Light homes (white, cream, pale grey, beige) → A darker roof adds depth and helps the home feel grounded.
• Dark homes (navy, forest green, charcoal, deep brown) → A lighter roof prevents the house from looking too heavy and adds balance.
• Mid-tone homes → You’ve got options! Go a shade lighter for a softer, lifted look, or a shade darker for bold contrast.
• Monochromatic look → Matching your roof and siding creates a sleek, modern style, almost like your home was styled by an architect.

Think of it like pairing clothes: if you’re in a light outfit, darker shoes complete the look; if you’re in a dark outfit, lighter shoes keep things fresh. Your house deserves the same kind of balance.

Conclusion

Your roof colour isn’t just a practical decision; it’s a chance to boost curb appeal and put your personal stamp on your home. Think long-term, grab samples to test in natural light, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

We’re proud to be a GAF-certified installer, but we can also work with IKO, BP, and CertainTeed. Whatever your style; classic, neutral, bold, or blended, there’s a shade for you. We’ll help you find a colour that matches your home’s personality and your budget.

Just like picking a paint colour for your walls, the material of your home can influence which shingle colours will look best:

• Brick – Pull a colour from the undertones (red, brown, or grey).
• Wood siding – Natural browns or weathered greys usually look best.
• Stucco – Softer neutrals create a harmonious look.
• Stone – Choose a shingle colour that ties into one of the stone shades.

Because if your house has to wear a hat for the next 30 years, it might as well be a good-looking one.