In Pennsylvania, homeowners often find themselves facing a tough decision when it comes to choosing the right color for their roof shingles.  With our region's weather ranging from humid summers to snowy winters, it can be complicated to know which is better, light or dark roof shingles.  

In this complete guide, we'll discuss all about roof color theory and explore which shades are best suited to Pennsylvania's unique climate. If you are looking for custom guidance on your roofing needs, then feel free to call our experts at (412) 353-5660.

Understanding Roof Color Theory

When you are planning to install a new roof on your building, it becomes very important to understand roof color theory. This theory covers the idea that light colors can reflect heat, while darker colors tend to absorb it. This translates to a situation in which those living in a region that receives a lot of sunlight would benefit from light-colored roofs. Otherwise, if you live in an area that experiences frequent cold temperatures, it is best to go with dark roofs.

Comparing Dark vs. Light-Colored Roof Shingles For Your Pennsylvania Home

Below, you’ll find a comparison of light vs. dark-colored roof shingles based on a few factors: 

#1 Energy Efficiency

👉 Light-Colored Roof Shingles

While Pennsylvania doesn't experience extremely hot summers, light-colored roofing shingles still offer an efficient option.

These shingles reflect more sunlight, which can help keep your attic and living spaces cooler during humid summer days.

This might lead to some energy savings, as your air conditioning system won't have to work quite as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. 

👉 Dark-Colored Roof Shingles

Dark-colored roof shingles absorb more heat from the sun. In Pennsylvania's climate, this can be advantageous during the colder months, which make up a significant portion of the year. Having dark shingles during this time helps keep your home warm and comfortable. 

Dark-colored roofing shingles can help melt snow and ice faster in winter, potentially reducing the risk of ice dams forming on your roof. 

#2 Lifespan and Durability

👉 Light-Colored Roofing Shingles

In Pennsylvania's climate, with its moderate summers and cold winters, light-colored roofing shingles might experience slightly slower fading and deterioration over time due to less heat absorption. This could potentially contribute to a longer lifespan for your roof.

👉 Dark-Colored Roofing Shingles

 While dark shingles might absorb more heat during the summer months, Pennsylvania's relatively mild summers mean this is less of a concern than in hotter climates. Modern dark-colored roofing shingles are designed to withstand a range of temperatures well. With proper attic ventilation, potential heat-related wear is minimized. 

#3 Appearance

👉 Light-Colored Roof Shingles

Light shingles can give your Pennsylvania home a clean, bright look. They might even make your house appear larger. Popular light shingle colors in Pennsylvania include various shades of gray and tan. These colors tend to work well with Colonial or Cape Cod-style homes, which are common in many parts of the state.

👉 Dark-Colored Roof Shingles

If you want your home to stand out, dark shingles can create a bold, dramatic look. They're great for highlighting interesting architectural details on your house. 

Dark colors often beautifully complement Victorian or Craftsman-style homes, both of which you'll find throughout Pennsylvania.

Important Note: When deciding between light and dark shingles for your Pennsylvania home, consider your home's overall color scheme and the surrounding landscape.

You want your roof to harmonize with your siding, trim, and the natural environment around your property. Take a drive around your neighborhood and notice which roof colors appeal to you most on homes similar to yours.

Popular Roof Shingle Colors In Pennsylvania

Here are some popular roof color choices in the state of Pennsylvania that, as a homeowner, you can consider: 

#1 Tan

Tan roofs look nice on Pennsylvania homes. They go well with the greens and browns in our yards. Many people like tan because it works with different house styles, and this light color can help keep houses cooler when it's hot outside.

#2 Brown

Brown roofs are common in Pennsylvania since they never go out of style. People often choose brown roofs if they’re looking for a classic way to make a house feel warm and cozy, which is nice during periods of cold weather.

#3 Black

More and more people in Pennsylvania are picking black roofs as they make a bold statement against the backdrop of white snow. People with modern-looking houses often like black roofs, and the heat that the color is able to retain in winter should help you save money on your heating bills. 

#4 Blue

Blue roofs are a bit different, but look nice on Pennsylvania homes. Some people choose blue to make their house stand out and provide a serene atmosphere.

#5 Gray

Gray roofs work well on many kinds of Pennsylvania homes. They look good all year round, no matter the season. People like gray because it doesn't stand out too much, so other parts of the house can get noticed. This roof color is also known to reflect sunlight, which helps keep houses cooler in summer.

Also Read: Top 10 Roof Shingle Colors Of 2024

We Are Here To Provide Professional Roofing Services In Pittsburgh, PA

When you choose professional and reputable roofers like our team of contractors at McClellands Contracting and Roofing, you will gain assistance in choosing the right roofing materials and roofing colors. If you are looking for professional shingle installation services in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania, then we are here to help! 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we aim to provide high-quality roofing services. We understand that roofs are a very important investment and are supposed to protect your property for many coming years. 

Trust us as your reliable roofers and we will make sure to serve you with the highest-quality results. To learn more about our services, or to get a custom quote, feel free to call us at (412) 353-5660.

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