Decisions, decisions, decisions! When you are considering any major renovation such as a new roof, there are a myriad of choices facing you. There are also likely as many diverse opinions as there are people giving them to you!  So how do you really know what is the best choice for your new roof?

You’ll probably need to check with your HOA, and then ask the experts.

Before you start searching the internet for your favorite roof shingle color, keep a few things in mind:

1. Do you live in an HOA neighborhood?
   Here in the Sarasota area, a great number of homes are built under the ruling covenants of a Homeowner’s Association, or HOA. Should you purchase a home with HOA rules (or “Deed Restrictions”) it is highly likely that your choice of color will be restricted by their guidelines. You may have no choice whatsoever, with the association determining which color roof goes with each home.More commonly in an HOA, however, you will be given a palette of acceptable colors or styles – and you can choose from within a certain range. In these cases, you may not have full creative license, but you will have some flexibility to be able to make a style choice for your home. Remember, your HOA may also have rules about the type of material which is acceptable for the community, so be sure to review your documents, and communicate your plans to the association if required. If you are buying a new home which will need a new roof, be sure to read over all documents prior to purchase to make sure that you understand your rights and options fully.
2. What is the style of your home – and your personal style?
   If you do not have to worry about an HOA, you will still need to determine your own personal style. Perhaps a rustic terra cotta roof fits your farmhouse, while a white and gray mottled shingle design will look perfect on your modern contemporary.Browse online photo galleries such as Pinterest for inspiration, or simply drive through neighborhoods you love.  Find a roof that will really speak to your sense of design, as well as one which will to blend well with your home’s siding and architecture. Your personality  will eventually come into play.

   For instance,  you may prefer a neat and ordered look – and therefore opt for a monochromatic shingle roof color. But maybe your adventurous side is up for a multi-colored roof pattern. It really does come down to your preferences.

3. Do you need to keep your cool?
   Experts seem to differ in their opinions as to how much your roof shingle color affects the energy efficiency of your home. Still, keeping your home cool under the unrelenting, harsh Florida sun is a continual battle, and every little bit helps!Science tells us that lighter colors reflect heat and sunlight, while darker colors absorb it. Therefore it stands to reason that a darker colored roof takes in more heat, making your attic – and eventually, the rest of your home – tend towards being warmer and causing your air conditioner to work harder.
   Expert Tip: Ask us about a cool roof system, which can help lower your electricity bills and improve the longevity of your roof overall.

Once you have established the roof shingle color which makes the most sense for you, come speak with one of the experts at Avery Roof Services. We can help you to understand the product choices you have, the time frames involved, and what the cost differentials may be. Overall, we can assist you in making sure that this investment in your roof is well thought our and professionally executed.