An image of six shingles in different colors, placed side-by-side

Understanding the Impact of Color on Roof Shingle Performance

Choosing the right color for your roof shingles is one of the most important decisions you can make when building or remodeling a home in Florida.

Not only does it affect the overall look and feel of your home, but it also has an impact on other factors such as durability and energy efficiency. Additionally, there’s always the matter of home value.

With so many options available, finding the perfect shade for your roof shingles can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’re here to help guide you through the process!

Enhancing Your Energy Efficiency

One of the major benefits of selecting a color for your roof shingles is its potential impact on energy efficiency. Lighter colors, such as white or beige, are better at reflecting heat and sunlight, which can help reduce cooling costs in hot climates such as Florida’s.

“Conventional roofs can reach temperatures of 150°F or more on a sunny summer afternoon, sun. Under the same conditions a reflective roof could stay more than 50°F cooler,” the U.S. Department of Energy explains. “This can save energy and money in buildings with air conditioning, or improve comfort and safety in buildings without air conditioning, by reducing heat flow from the roof into the occupied space.”

In addition to lighter colors, there are also special “cool roof” products available that can help deflect light and reduce your home’s temperature. Cool roofs are becoming increasingly popular in warmer climates and are a great option if you want to maximize your energy efficiency.

Discussing Overall Durability

Light-colored shingles offer superior longevity and are likely to last longer than dark-colored shingles. This is because they reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, which helps protect the material from damage caused by the strong, direct UV rays present in Florida.

Additionally, lighter colors also reduce heat absorption, meaning the material isn’t subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the day. This can help prevent cracking and other forms of material breakdown.

Even though lighter colors of roof shingles reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, maintenance is still required to keep them in good condition. Regular inspection and cleaning can help prevent the accumulation of dirt, leaves, and other debris which could cause damage to the material over time.

Taking Taste Into Consideration

Of course, aesthetics is also a major consideration when selecting roof shingles.

For example, dark colors tend to make your home stand out from the surrounding area, while lighter colors such as tan or beige can help create a more natural look and blend in with the environment. Depending on your personal preference and desired outcome, you can choose a color that best suits the style of your home.

Overall, selecting the right color for your roof shingles can be tricky, but it’s an important factor in creating a beautiful and energy-efficient home. Taking all factors into consideration, including energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics, will ensure you end up with the perfect shade for your roof.

But if you’re still not sure what shade or material you want — or if you’re still deliberating on whether or not you need a new roof at all — Universal Roof & Contracting is on your side!

Not only do we offer FREE roof inspections to get you started with the answers you need, but we’ve served both Jacksonville and Central Florida for over 25 years. Thus, we know how to help Florida homeowners find their forever roofs!

Are you ready to learn more and get on top of your roofing? If so, it’s time to contact the Universal Roof & Contracting team today by dialing 1-855-ROOF-HELP! When you work with us, you’ll see how the difference is universal.