Choosing a new roof is a major investment, and if you’re asking What Color Roof Goes With A Red Brick House, you’re not alone. Red brick is timeless—but pairing it with the wrong roof color can clash with your home’s natural warmth and lower curb appeal.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore the best roof colors for red brick homes, design principles to consider, and practical steps to help you make a confident choice.
Read too: How To Replace Roof Shingles That Blew Off: A Comprehensive Guide
What Color Roof Goes With A Red Brick House?
The best roof colors for a red brick house typically include:
- Charcoal gray
- Dark gray
- Black
- Weathered wood
- Brown
- Certain muted green tones
The right choice depends on your brick undertones, architectural style, and regional climate.
Let’s break it down in detail.
Why Roof Color Matters More Than You Think
Your roof can account for up to 40% of your home’s visible exterior. That means color choice has a significant impact on:
- Curb appeal
- Resale value
- Energy efficiency
- Architectural harmony
According to real estate professionals, homes with coordinated exterior color palettes can increase perceived value by up to 5–10%.
Roofing materials and styles vary widely. For background on roof systems, see:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roof
Understanding Red Brick Undertones
Before choosing a roof color, identify your brick’s undertone.
Red brick may lean toward:
- Deep crimson
- Orange-red
- Brownish-red
- Burgundy
Some bricks contain hints of:
- Gray
- Cream
- Black speckles
Matching undertones ensures a cohesive look.
Best Roof Colors for Red Brick Houses
1. Charcoal Gray (Most Popular Choice)
Charcoal gray is a top recommendation.
Why it works:
✔ Neutral contrast
✔ Modern appearance
✔ Works with most red tones
✔ Hides dirt well
Charcoal pairs especially well with darker red brick.
2. Black Roof
Black creates strong contrast and clean lines.
Best for:
- Colonial homes
- Traditional architecture
- Homes with white trim
However, black may absorb more heat in warmer climates.
3. Weathered Wood
Weathered wood shingles combine brown and gray tones.
Advantages:
✔ Natural appearance
✔ Softens bold red brick
✔ Blends with landscaping
This is a versatile and resale-friendly choice.
4. Brown or Dark Brown
Brown tones complement the warm undertones in brick.
Best for:
- Rustic homes
- Traditional styles
- Brick with brown flecks
Avoid overly light brown, which may look washed out.
5. Dark Green (Selective Use)
Deep forest green can work if:
- Brick has brown undertones
- Landscaping includes heavy greenery
Green must be muted—not bright.
Roof Colors to Avoid With Red Brick
Some colors clash with red brick.
Avoid:
✘ Bright blue
✘ Bright red (too much red overwhelms)
✘ Light pastel shades
✘ Yellowish tones
These combinations can appear unbalanced.
How to Choose the Right Shade: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Identify Brick Undertones
Hold paint swatches against the brick.
Notice if tones lean warm or cool.
Step 2: Evaluate Trim and Siding
Consider:
- White trim
- Cream accents
- Black shutters
- Stone additions
Roof color must coordinate with all elements.
Step 3: Consider Climate
Dark roofs absorb heat.
In hot regions, lighter gray options may improve energy efficiency.
Step 4: View Samples in Natural Light
Request physical shingle samples.
Place them on the roofline and view at different times of day.
Lighting changes perception dramatically.
Step 5: Check HOA Guidelines
Some neighborhoods restrict roof color choices.
Always verify before purchasing.
Comparison Table: Popular Roof Colors
| Roof Color | Style Match | Contrast Level | Heat Absorption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Gray | Modern & Traditional | Medium | Moderate |
| Black | Colonial | High | High |
| Weathered Wood | Versatile | Medium | Moderate |
| Dark Brown | Rustic | Low-Medium | Moderate |
| Dark Green | Select Styles | Low | Moderate |
Does Roof Color Affect Home Value?
Yes.
According to housing market studies, cohesive exterior color schemes:
- Improve buyer appeal
- Increase perceived maintenance quality
- Shorten time on market
Neutral roof colors tend to perform best in resale scenarios.
Architectural Style Considerations
Colonial Homes
Best choices:
- Black
- Charcoal
Clean contrast enhances symmetry.
Ranch-Style Homes
Best choices:
- Weathered wood
- Brown
Adds warmth and softness.
Modern Homes
Best choices:
- Dark gray
- Matte black
Creates bold, clean lines.
Real-World Example
A homeowner with orange-toned red brick selected a cool gray roof.
Result:
- Clashing undertones
- Exterior appeared disjointed
After switching to weathered wood:
- Brick warmth enhanced
- Overall curb appeal improved
Undertone harmony matters.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Dark roofs absorb more sunlight.
Benefits in colder climates:
✔ Reduced heating costs
Drawbacks in hot climates:
✘ Increased cooling demand
Consider climate zone when choosing.
Expert Design Tip
When in doubt:
Choose the darkest color present naturally in your brick.
This creates subtle coordination without overpowering the facade.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: What Color Roof Goes With A Red Brick House
1. Is black too harsh for red brick?
Not necessarily. It works well with traditional or colonial homes, especially with white trim.
2. Should the roof match the brick?
No. It should complement—not match exactly.
3. Is gray better than brown?
It depends on undertones. Gray suits cooler reds; brown suits warmer reds.
4. Can I use a red roof with red brick?
Usually not recommended. It can overwhelm the exterior.
5. Does roof color impact resale value?
Yes. Neutral and coordinated roofs generally improve buyer appeal.
6. What’s the safest roof color choice?
Charcoal gray or weathered wood are typically the safest and most versatile options.
Conclusion
If you’re asking What Color Roof Goes With A Red Brick House, the safest and most attractive choices are charcoal gray, black, weathered wood, or deep brown. The key is understanding your brick’s undertones and choosing a roof color that complements—not competes with—them.
Take time to view real samples in natural light, consider your architectural style, and think long-term about resale value.
If this guide helped you narrow down your roof color decision, share it with friends or neighbors who may also be updating their brick home’s exterior.
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