Color might seem like a small decision, but in Raleigh’s sun, heat, and HOA zones, it can make a big difference.
Your roof plays a huge role in your home’s curb appeal. It’s one of the first things people see and one of the most expensive things to change. Whether you're building a new home or replacing an older roof after a storm, picking the right color is about more than just looks. It’s about energy efficiency, longevity, neighborhood rules, and resale value.
At Pickard Roofing, we’ve helped Raleigh homeowners navigate this decision for over 95 years. Here’s what you should consider before choosing your next roof color.
Raleigh sees it all—hot, humid summers, occasional snow and ice, heavy rainstorms, and lots of sun. Your roof color plays a big part in how your home handles these elements.
Lighter colors reflect sunlight, helping to keep your attic (and energy bills) cooler in the summer. They also fade more slowly in strong UV conditions. Darker colors, on the other hand, can retain heat, sometimes helpful in winter, but may cause your home to run warmer overall.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, roof color can significantly impact energy use by altering how much solar heat your roof absorbs. Choosing a reflective “cool” roof shingle may reduce roof surface temperatures by up to 50°F.
While energy efficiency is important, so is style. Your roof should complement your home, not compete with it. Some general guidelines:
Our team helps you choose a roof color that enhances your home’s unique look. Explore roofing with Pickard to match your home’s aesthetic and see how a well-chosen roof color can elevate your entire exterior.
If you live in a Raleigh neighborhood with a homeowner’s association (HOA), you may be required to submit roof colors for approval. Some HOAs limit your choices to certain color families or finishes. Even in non-HOA neighborhoods, keeping visual harmony with surrounding homes helps protect resale value.
A wildly different roof can make your home stand out—but not always in a good way. Pickard Roofing helps homeowners navigate these restrictions and find approved colors that still look great.
Certain roofing materials limit your color options. Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of tones and patterns, but synthetic slate, metal roofing, or cedar shakes may have fewer available shades.
That’s why it’s important to consider material and color together, not separately. Learn how we’ve helped Raleigh homeowners choose the right roof for both performance and style, or learn more about roofing and top roofing materials on our blog.
Don’t rely on brochures or screens alone. Shingle color can look completely different depending on the time of day, your siding, and the surrounding landscape.
We recommend:
Choosing a roof color shouldn’t feel overwhelming. At Pickard Roofing, we bring samples to your home, walk through how they’ll age in the sun, and consider your home’s features, HOA requirements, and design preferences.
Because we install roofs all across the Triangle, we know what performs well—and what fades fast. Schedule a consultation with our Raleigh roofing experts, and we’ll help you make a confident decision.
Yes, darker colors absorb more heat. But with good attic ventilation and insulation, the difference may be minimal.
Absolutely. A roof that clashes with your siding or neighborhood can turn off potential buyers. Neutral tones tend to have broader appeal.
Not necessarily. Aim to complement rather than match exactly, your roof should tie together all exterior elements.
Your roof isn’t just a practical feature, it’s a design choice you’ll live with for decades. Whether you’re going bold or staying timeless, the right color can boost your curb appeal, support energy efficiency, and stay within HOA guidelines.
At Pickard Roofing, we’ve been helping Raleigh homeowners find the perfect fit since 1928. Let us help you make a smart, stylish choice that will look good for years to come.
Ready to refresh your curb appeal? Contact Pickard Roofing to explore samples, see past projects, and choose a roof color that suits your Raleigh home for the long haul.