Your home’s roof does more than protect you — it defines your house’s personality. If you own a red brick home, choosing the right shingle color can make or break your exterior’s appearance. With Shingle How to Choose Roof Color for Red Brick House, you’ll discover how to complement your brick’s warmth with the perfect tone, texture, and style.
Let’s explore the art and science of matching shingles to red brick, so your house looks classic, cohesive, and striking from every angle.
Read too: How Long Do Standing Seam Metal Roofs Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Durability and Longevity
Why Roof Color Matters for a Red Brick House
Choosing roof color isn’t just about aesthetics — it affects curb appeal, energy efficiency, and resale value.
A study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that homes with visually balanced exterior color palettes can boost property value by up to 7%.
Since red brick has bold undertones, your shingle color should create harmony rather than competition.
The Role of Undertones
Red bricks aren’t just “red.” They come with warm, cool, or neutral undertones:
- Warm: Orange, rust, or brownish-red hues
- Cool: Deep maroon or burgundy shades
- Neutral: Classic red with balanced tones
Matching your shingles to these undertones helps achieve a natural, timeless look.
Best Shingle Colors for Red Brick Homes
Let’s look at the top shingle color options that work beautifully with red brick exteriors — plus the pros and cons of each.
| Shingle Color | Works Best With | Style Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Gray | Cool-toned red brick | Modern & bold |
| Weathered Wood | Warm red or orange brick | Natural & rustic |
| Black | Any tone | Sharp, timeless contrast |
| Brown/Tan | Traditional red brick | Warm & inviting |
| Slate Blue-Gray | Burgundy brick | Elegant & refined |
1. Charcoal Gray Shingles
A favorite among designers for modern red brick homes. The dark gray provides contrast while maintaining sophistication.
Bonus: Hides dirt and wear better than lighter shingles.
2. Weathered Wood Shingles
Offers a natural, earthy balance to red brick’s warmth. These shingles mix browns, tans, and muted grays — ideal for colonial or craftsman-style homes.
3. Black Shingles
If you want drama and bold contrast, go black. This timeless pairing adds depth and symmetry, especially when paired with white or black trim.
4. Brown or Tan Shingles
For a cozy, traditional aesthetic, brown shingles complement warm red bricks perfectly. Try lighter tan shingles if you live in sunnier states like Texas or Florida to reflect heat.
5. Slate Blue-Gray Shingles
For those craving something unique, blue-gray shingles offer understated contrast without clashing. They suit homes with burgundy bricks or dark trim.
How to Match Roof Color with Brick Undertones
Choosing shingle color is like coordinating an outfit — undertones must align.
Here’s a simple step-by-step process to get it right:
Step 1: Identify Your Brick’s Undertone
Go outside on a sunny day and observe your brick. Does it lean more orange, deep red, or purplish?
Use this quick guide:
- Orange/red = warm
- Blue/purple/red = cool
- Balanced red = neutral
Step 2: Test Shingle Samples
Most roofing companies offer color sample boards. Place these against your brick in natural daylight. Artificial lighting can distort hues.
Step 3: Match or Complement
- Match undertone for subtle harmony
- Complement undertone for bold contrast
Step 4: Consider Roof Pitch and Sun Exposure
Light changes color perception. A steep roof reflects more sunlight, making colors appear lighter. In contrast, low slopes deepen the tone.
Step 5: Factor in Trim and Siding
Your gutters, window frames, and shutters affect visual balance. For example:
- Red brick + black shingles + white trim = classic
- Red brick + brown shingles + beige trim = warm and cozy
The Science Behind Color Perception in Roofing
According to the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC), roof color impacts:
- Heat absorption (darker colors absorb more heat)
- Energy costs (lighter colors may reduce cooling bills by 10–15%)
- Material longevity (temperature fluctuations affect shingle lifespan)
For homes in northern climates, dark shingles can help retain heat.
In southern or desert climates, lighter shingles may improve energy efficiency and comfort.
Popular Roofing Materials for Red Brick Houses
Different shingle materials offer varying aesthetics and durability.
| Material | Durability (Years) | Ideal Style | Cost (per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 20–30 | Traditional/Modern | $1.50–$3.50 |
| Architectural Shingles | 30–50 | Modern/Elegant | $3.50–$5.00 |
| Metal Roofing | 40–70 | Contemporary | $6.00–$12.00 |
| Slate Roofing | 75–100 | Luxury/Classic | $10–$20 |
| Composite Shingles | 30–50 | Versatile | $5.00–$8.00 |
Pro Tip: Architectural shingles offer dimensional texture that complements the uneven surface of brick beautifully.
Regional Climate Considerations
Your location can influence which shingle color is most practical:
- Warm climates: Choose light or medium tones like tan, gray, or weathered wood.
- Cold climates: Darker colors like black or charcoal gray help with heat retention.
- Coastal areas: Opt for fade-resistant shingles with UV protection.
- Storm-prone zones: Choose impact-rated shingles with Class 4 durability ratings.
According to FEMA data (2023), Class 4-rated shingles can withstand wind speeds up to 130 mph, ideal for hurricane-prone regions.
Curb Appeal and Style Matching
Traditional Look
- Brick Tone: Warm red
- Roof: Brown or weathered wood shingles
- Trim: Cream or white
- Result: Timeless, classic appeal
Modern Look
- Brick Tone: Deep red or burgundy
- Roof: Charcoal gray or black shingles
- Trim: Matte black or metal accents
- Result: Clean and contemporary
Rustic Look
- Brick Tone: Orange or clay
- Roof: Tan or medium brown shingles
- Trim: Natural wood tones
- Result: Cozy and inviting
Colonial Style
- Brick Tone: Muted red
- Roof: Slate gray shingles
- Trim: White with black shutters
- Result: Elegant and balanced
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Roof Color
- Ignoring Undertones: Red bricks vary — always test samples in daylight.
- Choosing Overly Bright Shingles: Avoid bright greens or reds; they clash with brick.
- Neglecting Trim Coordination: Mismatched gutters and shutters can disrupt flow.
- Skipping Climate Considerations: Dark shingles in hot climates can overheat interiors.
- Not Checking HOA Guidelines: Some neighborhoods restrict roof color options.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Roof Color
- Clean shingles twice a year to remove debris and moss.
- Inspect flashing and gutters regularly to prevent water damage.
- Trim overhanging branches to avoid staining from leaves and sap.
- Avoid pressure washing asphalt shingles, which can strip granules.
- Apply a UV-protective roof coating every 5–7 years for color retention.
Learn more about roof structures on Wikipedia.
Expert Advice: What Designers Recommend
“When pairing roof shingles with red brick, look for subtle contrasts rather than perfect matches,” says Lisa Monroe, a certified home color consultant in Chicago.
“Warm tones need warmth in return — like brown, taupe, or weathered gray — while cool red bricks pop beautifully under dark gray or black roofs.”
“Texture matters,” adds Jim Reynolds, roofing contractor at the National Roofing Association.
“Architectural shingles mimic depth and shadow, making red brick homes look more upscale.”
Visual Guide: Roof Color vs. Brick Tone
| Brick Type | Recommended Shingle Color | Avoid These Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Bright Red | Black, dark gray, brown | Green, orange |
| Dark Red/Burgundy | Slate gray, charcoal, blue-gray | Red or copper |
| Orange-Red | Weathered wood, tan | Cool gray |
| Rustic Clay | Brown, medium gray | Blue or black |
Energy Efficiency: Cool Roof Technology
Modern shingles now come with cool roof coatings, reflecting sunlight and reducing roof temperature by up to 50°F.
If your brick home gets lots of sun exposure, choose ENERGY STAR-rated shingles in medium tones like ash gray or driftwood brown.
They not only reduce cooling costs but also prolong roof lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best shingle color for a red brick house?
Charcoal gray, black, and weathered wood are universally flattering choices that enhance red brick’s warmth and depth.
2. Should roof color be lighter or darker than brick?
Generally darker — a darker roof provides contrast and anchors the home visually.
3. How do I match shingles if my brick has multiple colors?
Pick a neutral tone found in the brick’s flecks (like gray or brown) to unify the palette.
4. Do shingle colors fade over time?
Yes, but high-quality algae-resistant and UV-protected shingles maintain color for 20+ years.
5. Can I mix shingle colors for dimension?
Yes — blended shingles with subtle gradients (gray-brown mixes) work beautifully on red brick homes.
6. What color shingles increase resale value the most?
Neutrals like black, gray, and brown tend to attract buyers and boost resale appeal.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shingle color for your red brick house is about harmony, contrast, and long-term beauty. With the right tone, your roof can elevate your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall value.
Whether you prefer modern charcoal gray, warm weathered wood, or timeless black, your roof should feel like a natural extension of your brick — not a competing statement.
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