As a Minnesota roofing contractor who specializes in the installation of steel and other metal roofing, we often hear this question. Choosing a color for your new roof is and we understand the desire homeowners have to make sure they get the best color.  But in terms of 'best,' it depends on what your qualifications are.  Are you looking for the best color for your home in particular?  A color that is most popular?  One that will fit in well in your neighborhood, or perhaps one that makes your home stand out?  Or maybe you're thinking about what metal roof color is best in terms of energy  efficiency.  And THAT is a very good question, because some colors perform better than others.

What Color Metal Roof Is Most Energy Efficient?

Metal roofs themselves are considered eco-friendly, and they are classified as a green roofing option.  Metal roofing by its very nature is more energy efficient than other traditional roofing because the surface coating tends to reflect the sun's rays away from the home rather than absorbing it.  Colors that perform exceptionally well are white and other very light colors like pale green, peach, or light tan.  A home with a white or other light colored metal roof might be as much as 60° cooler than one with a dark roof.  This is particularly important in the warmer months in our area, but the difference is not as significant when it's cold outside.

This is just a small sample of the colors available in metal roofing

How Do I Choose a Metal Roof Color?

Here in the Minneapolis area, where our average annual temperatures are far lower than a hotter region like the South, dark metal roofs perform very well in terms of energy efficiency when a home has a well-insulated and well-ventilated attic space.  So our recommendation when we talk to prospective metal roofing customers is to base your color choice on other factors:
  • Choose a color that goes well with your existing exterior color scheme (siding, trim, window and door frames, etc.  Contrasts work well.  For example, if your home has light colored siding, a dark roof looks great.
  • If you want your home to blend in with the houses around you, select a color that's popular in your neighborhood.
  • Many people opt for the most popular roofing colors.  These include charcoal, dark brown, and black.  Red roofs are also typical. 
Ultimately you'll want to select a metal roof color that you are happy with, because that roof is going to be on your home for a very long time.  Check out our previous blog post for some more tips on selecting the right color.  The metal roofing we install comes in so many different shades that we're confident we can help you find just the perfect one for you and your home. Quarve Contracting, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota roofing contractor serving the greater Minneapolis St. Paul metro area.  If it's time for a new roof on your home, we'd love the opportunity to discuss the benefits of metal roofing with you.  Call or text us at 763-785-1472 to schedule a free consultation.