When choosing shingles for your roof of your Baltimore-area home, one of the decisions you are going to make is whether you want white (or light-colored) shingles or black (or dark-colored) shingles. Generally speaking, white shingles are the way to go.
Are there white roof shingles?
This is a requirement in some energy codes. In most of the U.S., “COOL” asphalt shingles are available in lighter colors (white, light gray, light tan, etc.). In California, darker color tones are available.
Why are roof shingles not white?
In general, lighter-colored roofs reflect away heat rays from the sun, but dark-colored roofs absorb much of that heat and transfer it into the rooms below. … For example, asphalt shingles are less reflective than metal or rubber roofing materials.
What is the best color for roof shingles?
17 Facts and Tips on How to Pick Shingle Colors to Complement Your Home
| HOUSE COLOR | BEST MATCHING ROOF SHINGLE COLOR |
|---|---|
| Beige/Cream | Brown, Black, Grey, Green, Blue |
| Brown | Grey, Brown, Green, Blue |
| White | Almost any color including Brown, Grey, Black, Green, Blue, White |
| Weathered Wood or Log Houses | Brown, Green, Black, Grey |
What colors do asphalt shingles come in?
White: White and white shingles are perhaps the most versatile shade to work with when you’re deciding what color roofing shingles or materials you want. You could really do practically any color roof from black to gray to brown, blue, green, or go for a monochromatic look with a white roof.
Is a white roof a bad idea?
Conversion to white roofs is a bad idea globally, Jacobson says. Instead, if you want to make a difference, install a photovoltaic system or solar panels on your roof, which reflects light and also generates clean electricity.
Which is better light or dark roof shingles?
The Temperature
Light shingles fair better in warmer weather, as light colors tend to deflect sunlight and keep your house cooler. Dark shingles are the opposite; they absorb heat, which makes them excellent for colder climates. They also tend to make snow melt much more quickly.
Do white roofs look dirty?
Re: Does a white roof look dirty? They look clean when they are put up! I know a house with a really light roof; don’t ask me what colour it is, as it’s covered in mould, dirt and whatever! If you’re not prepared to get onto your roof and gurney it off every few years, then don’t do it.
Are white shingles more energy efficient?
By decreasing the solar gain and heat retention of your home, a white roof also increases its comfort and reduces the heat island effect to which your home’s dark roof contributes. … If you’re already re-roofing, or building a new residence, consider replacing shingles or asphalt with lighter-colored versions.
Are black roof shingles a bad idea?
With a darker roof, you may be welcoming in more heat, causing your air conditioning to run longer and harder. This all can be mitigated with proper ventilation and insulation in your attic, so please don’t write off dark roofs completely – they can be made energy efficient as well!
What color roof is the coolest?
Since dark surfaces are better heat absorbers, traditional cool roofs are white. Berkeley Lab research has demonstrated that raising the solar reflectance of a roof from about 20 percent (dark gray) to about 55 percent (weathered white) can reduce cooling energy use by 20 percent.
Do dark shingles make house hotter?
Black and dark-colored roofs.
In general, dark-colored roofing materials will absorb the heat and cause your attic and/or the top of your house to be warmer than a lighter colored material.
What is the lifespan of architectural shingles?
Lifespan. Because of their durability and high-quality composition, architectural shingles generally have a longer lifespan than the 3-tab variety. They stand up better to weather conditions such as heat, snow, ice, rain, and strong winds. Their average lifespan is about 18 to 20 years.
What color roof makes a house look bigger?
Black roofs provide an anchor for tall homes by helping visually lower the roof and making the home look wider in contrast to the siding color and trim. A black roof has a strong link to homes painted in gray, blue, green or white … and can also be used with a brick exterior.
What color roof looks best with White House?
Roof Shingle Colors For White Houses
White houses should opt for shingles that are gray (don’t forget about silver!) or black. If the white siding is on the warmer side, as in almost a cream, consider brown shingles.
How many bundles of shingles make a square?
Here are a couple more examples: A package of shingles is called a bundle. 3 bundles = 1 roofing square (98.4 sq. ft.)