What Roofing and Siding Colors Go Together
Matching your siding and roofing materials is a big deal in making your home look great and boosting its value. You can create a look that stands out in your neighborhood by picking colors and materials that work well together. Keep reading for tips on how to get started:
Choosing the Right Colors
Think About Your Home’s Style. The style you’re aiming for should steer your color choices. For instance, traditional homes often look best with classic color combinations like white siding paired with a black or gray roof. On the other hand, modern homes can pull off bolder colors and contrasting materials. Craftsman-style homes usually go for earth tones that blend with nature, while older Victorian homes can rock a palette of vibrant colors. Of course, whichever style speaks to you is the one you should stick to!
Use a Color Wheel. A color wheel comes in handy when choosing complementary colors. Colors opposite each other, like blue and orange, create a vibrant look. Colors situated next to each other, like blue and green, offer a more harmonious feel. These s are called analogous colors, and they’re popular among homeowners to maintain a balanced, elevated look.
Remember to Test Your Favorite Colors in Natural Light. Colors can look different in natural light compared to how they look in a store. Always test samples on your home and check them out at different times of the day to make sure you’re happy with the final look. This step is necessary to ensure your color choices look good under various lighting conditions.
Choosing the Right Materials
Roofing Options
Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common roofing material and come in a wide range of colors and styles. They’re affordable, durable, and can mimic the look of pricier materials.
Metal Roofing: Known for being durable and energy-efficient, metal roofs come in panels or shingles. They last a long time and can reflect solar heat, making them great for energy savings.
Wood Shakes: Wood shakes provide a natural look and blend well with rustic siding. They offer a timeless appearance but require regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage.
Siding Options
Vinyl Siding: Affordable and low-maintenance, vinyl siding is available in many colors. It’s popular due to its versatility and ease of installation.
Wood Siding: Wood siding offers a classic look but needs regular maintenance. It can be painted or stained in various colors and gives a warm, natural appearance.
Fiber Cement: This material is durable and can mimic the look of wood or stone. It’s resistant to pests and weather, making it a long-lasting option.
Stone Veneer: Stone veneer adds texture and interest but can be pricey. It provides an elegant, upscale look, perfect for accent areas.
Tips on Creating a Harmonious Look
Match the Undertones. Pay attention to the undertones in your roofing and siding materials. Cool tones, like blue and gray, work well together, while warm tones, like red and brown, also complement each other. Mixing undertones can lead to a disjointed look, so keep it consistent.
Balance Bold Choices. If you go for a bold color for your siding, consider a neutral roof to balance it out. Conversely, a bold roof can be paired with neutral siding for a striking look. For example, navy blue siding with a light gray roof creates a balanced, modern look.
Use Accent Colors Wisely. Accent colors on doors, shutters, and trim can tie your overall design together. Pick accent colors that complement both your siding and roofing materials. A splash of color on the front door can add character without overwhelming the main color scheme.
Practical Considerations to Keep in Mind When Choosing Roofing & Siding
Climate and Weather
Your local climate plays a big role in picking the right materials. Considering Minnesota’s heavy snowfalls, metal roofs are a great choice because they shed snow and ice easily. Clay tiles, however, aren’t the best fit due to our freeze-thaw cycles—they can crack. Instead, think about installing materials that can handle cold winters and hot, humid summers. This way, your roof and siding will last for years.
Maintenance and Durability
Consider the maintenance needs and durability of your materials. Metal and asphalt roofs are low-maintenance, while wood siding requires regular upkeep. Choose materials that fit your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
Energy Efficiency
Some roofing materials can boost your home’s energy efficiency. Reflective materials like metal can reduce cooling costs in hot climates, while insulated siding can help maintain indoor temperatures. These choices can lead to long-term savings on energy bills.
Need Inspiration? Here Are Some Popular Combinations
Classic Combinations For Exteriors
White Siding and Black Roof: Timeless and elegant, this combo works well with colonial and farmhouse-style homes.
Gray Siding and Dark Gray Roof: Sophisticated and modern, ideal for contemporary and minimalist designs.
Beige Siding and Brown Roof: Warm and inviting, perfect for traditional and ranch-style homes.
Bold and Modern Roofing & Siding
Blue Siding and Gray Roof: Crisp and contemporary, this combination suits coastal and modern homes.
Green Siding and Black Roof: Earthy and bold, great for homes surrounded by nature.
Red Siding and Charcoal Roof: Striking and unique, ideal for making a statement while keeping a classic feel.
Feel Free to Contact the Experts for Advice!
At All Craftsmen Exteriors, our Twin Cities roofing experts can help you choose the best materials and approach for your needs and budget. Contact us today to chat about your home’s exteriors and how we can help! Serving the southern Twin Cities metro for almost 20 years.