Choosing the Right Roof Shingle Color: A Complete Guide

If you’re about to replace your roof, chances are you’ve already noticed one big challenge: the color. It’s no longer just “black or gray shingles.” Today, homeowners in New Jersey have dozens of stylish, durable, and eye-catching colors to choose from — from warm Driftwood to bold Hunter Green and even Mediterranean-inspired Terra Cotta.

But here’s the truth: choosing the right roof shingle color isn’t just about looks. The right color can improve curb appeal, increase your home’s value, and even impact how much you spend on energy bills. The wrong choice? It could leave your house looking mismatched, dated, or hotter than it needs to be in summer.

At Burrini & Sons Contracting, We already helped countless New Jersey homeowners navigate this decision, and we’re here to walk you through the process step by step.

Why Does Roof Shingle Color Matters?

Your roof makes up nearly 40% of your home’s visible exterior. That means the color you choose has an outsized impact on first impressions. Here’s why this decision is so important:

• Curb Appeal & Resale Value: Buyers are drawn to homes that “feel” right, and color harmony plays a big role.

• Energy Efficiency: Dark shingles absorb heat, while lighter shingles reflect it. In New Jersey’s climate — hot summers, cold winters — this matters.

• Longevity & Style: Unlike paint, roofing isn’t something you change every five years. You’re choosing a look that could last decades.

Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Your Shingle Color

1. Your Home’s Exterior Material

Your siding, brick, or stucco sets the stage. Shingles should complement, not compete. For example:

• Red Brick Homes: Tan or Driftwood shingles create a balanced, timeless look.

• Blonde Brick Homes: Dark Gray or Weathered Wood brings contrast and depth.

• Painted Exteriors: White-painted homes pair beautifully with Moire Black for a crisp, modern finish.

2. Architectural Style

Colonial homes look classic with neutral tones like Georgetown Gray or Weathered Wood, while Craftsman or cottage-style homes shine with natural, earthy blends like Resawn Shake or Driftwood. Modern homes? They often demand bold contrast — think Moire Black or Thunderstorm Gray.

3. Climate & Location

New Jersey homeowners deal with snow, humidity, and heatwaves. Darker shingles can make a home warmer in summer, while lighter shingles like Weathered Wood reflect more heat. Always consider your home’s exposure to sun and shade.

4. Personal Style & Neighborhood Fit

Want to stand out? Colors like Hunter Green or Terra Cotta bring personality. Want to blend in? Stick with Heather Blend or Georgetown Gray. And remember — your HOA or town may have rules, so check before finalizing.

Popular Roof Shingle Colors for New Jersey Homes

Here’s a breakdown of some of today’s most in-demand colors and how they fit with different exteriors:

• Driftwood – Warm, rustic tones that complement stone or natural siding.

• Sunrise Cedar – Golden wood-inspired hues that pair well with earthy homes.

• Painted Desert – A dynamic, multi-tonal blend that adds depth to neutral exteriors.

• Weathered Wood – A versatile, classic favorite that works with almost any style.

• Georgetown Gray – Clean and modern, perfect for contemporary homes.

• Resawn Shake – A textured look that matches traditional or historic homes.

• Heather Blend – A subtle mix of browns and grays, versatile for brick and siding.

• Thunderstorm Gray – Bold and dramatic, ideal for white or light-colored homes.

• Hunter Green – Unique and eye-catching, pairs beautifully with beige or stone.

• Burnt Sienna – Rich, warm tones that highlight rustic or stone exteriors.

• Terra Cotta – Mediterranean charm, excellent for stucco and light siding.

• Moire Black – Timeless, bold, and works with virtually everything.

💡 Pro Tip: Always look at a sample on your home before committing. Colors change depending on light, shadows, and surrounding landscape.

Matching Shingle Colors to Different Exteriors

• Brick Homes: Pair red brick with light tans or Weathered Wood. Blonde brick? Dark grays or browns. Painted brick? Contrast with Moire Black or Heather Blend.

• Siding Homes: Light-colored siding works best with mid-to-dark shingles like Georgetown Gray or Burnt Sienna. Dark siding? Brighten it with Weathered Wood or Sunrise Cedar.

• Stucco & Stone: Stucco pairs beautifully with Terra Cotta or Driftwood. Stone homes look strong with Heather Blend or Resawn Shake.

Design Principles for Roof Color Harmony

• Warm vs. Cool Tones: Stick to one family. Warm siding = warm shingles. Cool siding = cool shingles.

• Blend vs. Contrast: If you want subtlety, blend tones (tan siding with Weathered Wood). For drama, go bold (white siding with Moire Black).

• Multi-Tonal Shingles: Blends like Painted Desert or Heather Blend add depth and hide dirt better.

  
  

Practical Tips Before Making Your Final Choice

• Test in Natural Light: Look at samples morning, noon, and evening.

• Compare Against Trim: Gutters, shutters, and even driveways affect overall harmony.

• Think Long-Term: Trendy colors might not age well. Classics like Weathered Wood and Driftwood always hold up.

• Consult the Pros: A roofing contractor can show you what works best in your area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing from a brochure without testing at home.

• Ignoring undertones (some “grays” have blue or green hints).

• Forgetting resale value — your taste may not match buyers’.

• Skimping on quality for the sake of color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do darker shingles make my house hotter?

Yes, darker shingles absorb more heat. In NJ’s climate, balance looks with efficiency.

What’s the most popular roof color in New Jersey?

Weathered Wood and Driftwood are consistent best-sellers.

Do shingles fade over time?

Yes, but modern shingles use UV-resistant granules to minimize fading.

Can bold colors hurt resale value?

Sometimes. Stick to classics if resale is in your near future.

Your Roof, Your Investment

Your roof is more than protection — it’s your home’s crown. Choosing the right shingle color means balancing style, climate, and quality for a decision you’ll love for decades.

At Burrini & Sons Contracting, we’ve helped New Jersey homeowners to install roof shingles and make the right call for over 40 years. From selecting the perfect shingle color to professional installation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

👉 Ready to upgrade your roof? Contact us today for a free remodeling consultation and let’s find the color that makes your home stand out.