Choosing a new roof color isn’t just about style—it’s about long-term satisfaction, energy efficiency, resale value, and even neighborhood harmony. At All State Roofing & Chimney, we’ve helped thousands of New Jersey homeowners choose the perfect shingle color to match their house, climate, and local aesthetic.
If you’re planning a roof replacement or new home build, this guide will help you confidently choose the best shingle color for your NJ home—whether you’re in Bergen County, Morris County, or down the Jersey Shore.
Have questions? Call us at (862) 295-7864
Or request your free roof estimate: https://allstateroofingandchimneynj.com/free-estimate/
1. Match Your Home’s Exterior Colors
Your roof accounts for up to 40% of your home’s visible exterior. That’s why color coordination is so important.
Here’s how to match your roof color with your home’s siding, trim, and brick:
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Beige or Cream Homes: Brown, black, or grey shingles provide contrast and warmth.
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White Homes: Just about any color works—consider bold choices like black, dark blue, or green.
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Brick or Stone Exteriors: Choose a shingle that picks up a tone in the masonry (brown, slate, or weathered wood).
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Gray or Blue Homes: Charcoal, black, or light gray shingles offer a sleek, modern look.
Avoid clashing tones. For example, pairing red brick with red-toned shingles may look overpowering.
Tip: Always ask your roofing contractor for real shingle samples and view them in natural daylight against your home.
2. Consider NJ’s Climate and Energy Efficiency
New Jersey experiences all four seasons—from hot summers to snowy winters. Shingle color affects more than appearance—it impacts your home’s internal temperature.
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Dark-colored shingles absorb heat, making them ideal for cold winters but warmer in summer.
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Light-colored shingles reflect sunlight, helping reduce cooling costs during hot months.
If your attic is well-ventilated and insulated, darker shingles are not a problem. But if you want to maximize summer energy savings, opt for lighter shades like light gray, sand, or weathered wood.
Pro Tip: Some shingle brands offer “cool roof” technology that reflects UV rays even in darker tones.
3. Think About Resale Value
If you plan to sell your home within the next 10–15 years, you’ll want to choose a shingle color with broad appeal. Neutral colors tend to be more attractive to potential buyers.
Top resale-friendly shingle colors in NJ include:
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Weathered wood
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Charcoal gray
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Driftwood
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Slate
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Black
Bold or trendy colors may age quickly or limit your pool of buyers. Neutral tones provide timeless style that blends well with most neighborhoods.
4. Check HOA Guidelines or Local Rules
Some New Jersey communities and homeowner associations have strict rules about roofing materials and colors. Before committing to a shingle color, review:
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HOA roofing regulations
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Historic district color requirements (especially in towns like Princeton or Montclair)
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Municipal building codes if applicable
Installing an unapproved shingle color may lead to costly rework or fines.
5. Evaluate Lighting and Sun Exposure
The same shingle color can look very different depending on light and shade. A home in direct sunlight may appear lighter than one shaded by trees.
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View your sample at different times of day
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Check how it looks in both direct sunlight and overcast conditions
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Ask your roofer if they have photos of nearby homes using the same shingle
This simple step helps avoid disappointment once the full roof is installed.
6. Coordinate with Roofing Material Type
The color you choose should also match the style of shingle you’re installing.
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Architectural shingles: Best for multi-tonal or textured colors
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3-tab shingles: Simpler colors, flatter appearance
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Metal or slate roofs: Typically come in specific color finishes (e.g., charcoal, copper, zinc)
Work with your roofer to find color swatches that complement the shape and depth of your shingles.
7. Use Online Shingle Color Tools
Many major roofing manufacturers offer shingle color visualizers, where you can upload a photo of your home and try different colors virtually. Here are a few:
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GAF Virtual Home Remodeler
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Owens Corning Design EyeQ
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CertainTeed ColorView
Ask All State Roofing & Chimney which brands we install—we’ll help you use these tools effectively.
8. Choose a Color That Hides Dirt and Aging
NJ weather brings rain, snow, pollen, and wind-blown debris. Some shingle colors hide dirt and streaking better than others.
Colors that camouflage dirt and weathering include:
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Brown and taupe blends
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Slate gray
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Weathered wood
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Charcoal black
Avoid bright white or pale tones if you don’t want to see every leaf or stain.
9. Consult with a Local NJ Roofing Expert
The best way to choose your shingle color is to work with a trusted local roofing company that knows NJ architecture, climate, and neighborhood styles.
At All State Roofing & Chimney, we bring sample boards directly to your home, walk you through your color choices, and offer real photos from past projects so you can visualize the final result.
Serving Bergen, Essex, Union, Passaic, Morris, and surrounding NJ counties.
Final Thoughts: Make a Confident Color Choice
Your new roof should protect your home and enhance its beauty. By considering home style, climate, energy efficiency, and neighborhood harmony, you’ll be well on your way to choosing a shingle color that lasts decades.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re replacing an old roof or building new, we’re here to guide you through every decision—from shingle selection to professional installation.
Call All State Roofing & Chimney today at (862) 295-7864
Or get your free estimate here: https://allstateroofingandchimneynj.com/free-estimate/
