The color of a new roof, like the color of a new car, is important. However, an attractive roof color won’t protect you from the elements. Ultimately, a functional roof is the key to your well being and that of your home.
Fortunately, it’s simple to combine the roof color and texture you want with a highly functional roof system.
Function is Most Important
While roof color is important to the look and curb appeal of your home’s exterior, there is no substitute for a roof system that works like it’s supposed to. To achieve this, it’s always important to match the right roofing materials with the demands of the environment. It’s also vital to ensure that all roof components are installed in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
Here are some key qualities to look for in high-quality roof systems protecting New Jersey residential roofs.
Durability and longevity
Today’s homeowners increasingly choose the thicker architectural shingles over thinner three-tab designs. Traditional three-tab shingles include a fiberglass layer embedded in the asphalt. Architectural shingles feature a fiberglass layer laminated between two asphalt layers, making them thicker. The multi-layer design allows for special cuts that can mimic the look of wood shakes or slate.
Top roofing manufacturers will typically offer the best warranties on premium roofing materials that they have the utmost confidence in. Look for warranties that cover both materials and installation for lengthy periods of time. Also, look for extended non-prorated coverage. You’ll find that GAF’s Silver Pledge and Golden Pledge warranties are two of the best in the business.
Wind rating
Given the potential for hurricanes and other tropical systems, Tri-state homeowners should pay attention to the wind rating of their shingles. It is highly recommended that homeowners choose shingles rated at 130 mph or higher. Such designs feature premium adhesives that maintain their grip in the face of the extreme uplift caused by high winds. The best shingle adhesives perform well in both blistering heat and bitter cold.
Note that proper nailing is also critical to the proper performance of shingles with high wind ratings.
Given the importance of proper installation, it’s important to rely on a local, reputable roofing contractor specially certified by one or more of the major roofing manufacturers.
Ice dam protection
In the northern United States, leak barriers are commonly referred to as ice/water barriers. GAF, the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, says that leaks barriers “Provide an extra layer of protection between your roofing shingles and the roof deck.” GAF manufactures two popular products: Stormguard and Weatherwatch. Both are included in the GAF Lifetime Roofing System that offers the most generous warranties.
Many NJ roofs benefit from the addition of an ice/water barrier in vulnerable places – in valleys, around chimneys and at the eaves. For ultimate protection, some northern NJ homeowners elect to use an ice/water barrier across the entire roof. Increasingly, updated building codes require the use of a leak barrier in spots vulnerable to ice dams.
Roof Color Selection
Coordinating your asphalt shingles with the color of your home’s exterior is like matching colors inside your home. First, decide whether you want to go with a complementary or a contrasting color. You can choose to harmonize exterior elements, or you can make a bold statement with a contrasting color.
Integrate your roof color into the overall color scheme that you prefer.
There are pleasing greens and browns that blend beautifully with nature’s tones. There are also bold reds, blues and golds consistent with the bright color schemes of some modern New Jersey homes. You’ll also find subtle hues and monochromatic looks that work with almost any architectural style.
Available Colors
Fortunately, major roofing manufacturers like GAF are in tune with today’s color trends. They offer popular colors, textures and designs that synchronize with the architecture of homes throughout the Tri-state area.
For example, let’s take a closer look at the color options available in GAF’s Timberline Series, the top-selling architectural shingle in America. GAF makes it easy to match the color you want with the style you prefer.
Timberline HD
*Photo courtesy of GAF*
There are 12 Timberline HD shingle colors, ranging from lighter tones like Fox Hollow Gray and Shakewood to darker tones like Charcoal and Barkwood.
Timberline Ultra HD
Timberline Ultra HD shingles deliver a high-definition wood shake look along with seven popular colors: Patriot Red, Charcoal, Shakewood, Weathered Wood, Hickory and Pewter Gray.
Armorshield II
Rubberized Timberline Armorshield II shingles deliver added impact resistance that may reduce insurance premiums. Choose from seven colors: Charcoal, Barkwood, Pewter Gray, Hickory, Shakewood, Slate and Weathered Wood.
American Harvest
The Timberline American Harvest series features bold colors like Golden Harvest, Nantucket Morning, Appalachian Sky, Cedar Falls, Saddlewood Ranch and Midnight Blush.
Natural Shadow
Timberline Natural Shadow shingles combine subtle shadowing with popular colors like Barkwood, Charcoal, Pewter Gray, Slate, Hickory, Shakewood and Weathered Wood.
Timberline Cool Series
*Photo courtesy of GAF*
Specialty Timberline Cool Series shingles use special reflective granules to reflect more UV rays away from the roof, potentially reducing cooling costs. Choose from medium to dark tones like Antique Slate, Barkwood and Weathered Wood.
Prompt, Professional Assistance
CRS has served the roofing needs of NJ homeowners for more than 45 years. We are a true full-service roofing contractor providing certified roof inspections, routine maintenance, emergency work, minor and major repairs, re-roofing and full roof replacements.
Allow us the opportunity to put our experience and knowledge to work for you. When it comes to color, we’ll show you some great options from traditional tones to trending hues.
To ask your roofing questions, or to schedule a visit from our certified roof inspector, please contact us today!
