Color Theory Fundamentals to Know When Picking a Roof Color

Choosing a roof color is deceivingly challenging. Even if you already know what you want, it’s easy to get lost in a dizzying number of choices. Owens Corning alone has a bevy of stunning color blends available for each of its shingles.

Instead of trying to visualize every option, master the fundamentals of color theory to facilitate your decision-making when selecting a roofing product:

Familiarizing the Basics

Before you explore the entire spectrum, know the basic colors first. Spoiler: they’re not the ones in the rainbow, but rather the dozen of shades in the color wheel.

Red, blue, and yellow are the primary colors because they’re born of the fusion of others. Orange, purple, and green are the secondary ones because you can make them by combining the primary colors. Tertiary colors are a family of the shades you get by blending primary and secondary colors together.

Understanding How the Color Wheel Works

The color wheel, in its simplest form, is the visual representation of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. Each color in the wheel is related to the ones next to it. This is why red, blue, and yellow are the farthest from one another. In theory, the color could show an infinite number of hues.

Tweaking Colors with Neutrals

Each color begets a brand new one every time it gets lighter or darker with the addition of a neutral. Tint is the result of adding white to a color; shade is the product of injecting black; and tone is the offspring of introducing gray. The reason the colors of roofing products look identical yet different because the neutrals make them slightly distinctive.

Distinguishing Color Temperature

Like texture, color temperature is the feel of the hue when you look at it. This is why some seem warm, while others appear cool. Considering the psychological effect of each hue, consider size. The benefit of a particular color temperature could even become a liability when the hue is used in large quantities.

Using Color Schemes

To choose the roof color that can harmonize with the rest of your exterior elements, study the color wheel to form the perfect palette. There are plenty of color schemes, but most experienced roofing contractors would recommend the complementary one. This scheme is all about using two colors located opposite to each other in the wheel. The result: a beautiful contrast between your roof and your home’s main body color.

Let Kroll Construction help you figure out the right color for your replacement roof in Detroit. Call us now at (888) 338-6340 to schedule your free consultation at your convenience to discuss your roofing needs.

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