Selecting the roof color for shingles is a tricky decision because opting for the best roof shingle color amongst innumerable options is a tough choice as there are several things to consider when making the decision. The architectural details of the exterior house, the location of the house, the roof color of neighbors, the desired curb appeal, and many more factors make a difference in the exterior look of the house. How about black color?
Black is a timeless and the most popular color choice for shingles. Black looks classy and stylish, which enhances the visual appeal. Let's discuss black roof shingles to help you make the right decision to stand out.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Black Roof Shingles?
Once you know everything about black roof shingles, it will be easier to decide whether to opt for the black color. Let's have a look.
Pros of Black Shingles
Flexible Color: Black roof color goes well with most roof designs' home style and even blends with the neighbor's choice. For all these reasons, it is considered one of the most flexible colors.
Reduces Energy Costs: Black shingles lower energy bills during the winter season by trapping heat and keeping the indoor home slightly warm and comfortable. A light-colored roof absorbs less heat, so you can opt for a black roof if you live in cold weather conditions.
Enhances Visual Appeal: Black is a classy and elegant color that effortlessly elevates curb appeal. It has a great impact on the home's exterior, reflecting your elegant choice.
Melt Snow Faster: Black, being the dark color, can help melting snow accumulated on the roof faster because it absorbs heat. However, you need to bear in mind that snow won't melt easily if the entire roof is covered with snow because the roof won't be able to absorb the heat due to the snow layering. Make sure you make an arrangement to remove the snow off the roof.
Cons of Black Shingles
Low Life Expectancy: A black roof absorbs more heat than a lighter tone affecting its durability, but there's no established fact so far to prove the correlation between longevity and roof color. All that a roof requires is proper ventilation because the heat trapped on the roof needs a way to escape. Don't rule out the option of black roof shingles merely because they are known for low life expectancy. With proper ventilation, you can install a black roof.
Not Suitable for Summers: A black roof absorbs more heat, making the building hotter from the inside and increasing the energy bills.
Frequent Cleaning: Dust and dirt are more prominent on black roofs than on light colors, requiring frequent cleaning for a shiny look.
Early Replacement: The black roof's heat build-up is high, causing shingles to curl and resulting in replacement.
How Do You Keep Black Roof Shingles Cool?
After learning about the pros and cons of the black roof, let's learn about ways to keep the shingle cool to reduce energy bills even during the summer.
Synthetic Underlayment
These days, synthetic underlayment is used beneath the shingles for multiple reasons, such as keeping the roof cool and withstand strong wind and rain. If your roof is old and has an underlayment of tar paper, it's time to change it and replace it with a synthetic one for durability and to keep it cool.
Proper Ventilation
Black roofs need proper ventilation to balance the inflow and outflow of air to ensure proper circulation of air, keeping the temperature cool and avoiding problems such as high moisture and humidity, mold growth, damage to the wood structure, ice accumulation, and high energy bills. Consider using pod or ridge vents, soffit ventilation, and solar or baffle fans.
Ten Black Roof Shingles You Can Consider for Your Home
GAF Charcoal Shingles
GAF is the best-selling asphalt shingle in the US, offering varied color options that elevate the look of the roofing system. It acts as a showstopper with its sleek profile and dual lines.
Onyx Black From Owens Corning
Another popular brand of shingle is available in various ranges and is the darkest shade of black. Its versatility makes it unique. It matches with any architectural style, extending a modern look to the roof.
Black Sable From Owens Corning
This is also a popular choice for homeowners. It's not entirely black, but it has a mesmerizing impact that perfectly blends with the light tones of gray and brown.
Moire Black From Certain Teed's
This is a sophisticated and elegant choice with its rich black tone. It is resistant to algae growth.
Certain Teed's Black Walnut Shingles
This is a clean and sleek roof option with a smooth black appearance and is durable.
Charcoal Black From Certain Teed
Charcoal black is one of Certain Teed's darkest tones. The color adds a bold and classic look to the roof.
Dual Black From IKO
Its band shadow look adds drama to the roof. This color is available in the 3-tab Marathon AR and IKO Cambridge line.
Rustic Black From TAMKO
Rustic black has the look of cast iron cookware, which adds evergreen curb appeal that can't go unnoticed by your friends and neighbors.
Black Walnut From TAMKO
Black walnut is a blend of various colors creating a remarkable visual impact. Your house will stand out from the crowd with the black walnut color.
Black Roof Shingle From Malarkey
This color looks sophisticated with striking beauty and is best suited for Wisconsin weather.
Conclusion
Black roof shingles are best suited for cold weather; however, with some simple tricks, you can use them even in hot weather areas. Before installing the roof, consider all the pros and cons and make the decision.
