By Katelyn Bilicich, RoofSnap.
After using RoofSnap’s new metal solution to accurately measure and estimate your customer’s roof, and securing the job, you’ll want to assist them in choosing the perfect color for their metal roof. With increased durability and improved energy efficiency, the color they choose can further enhance their home’s curb appeal and energy savings. Here's how to help your customers choose the right color and finishes for their metal roof.
Choosing the right metal roofing color can make or break the appearance of a building. There are multiple factors to consider when exploring metal roofing colors.
The first consideration for a customer is usually how it looks on their property, but that’s not the only important point to consider.
The color of the roof can affect how hot or cool the building gets. This can be a very important consideration if you serve an area that sees extreme seasonal temperatures. The color can cost the customer more or save them money, depending on their choice.
Durability is also a factor. If you’re located somewhere with more intense weather, you’ll want to ensure that your roof color coatings are up to the task. Different paint systems have different lifespans. You don’t want a customer’s roof to immediately fade, chalk or chip.
Luckily, you will find a huge range of metal roofing colors and finish selections today. This is particularly true for residential products.
Light colors include basic white as well as shades like tan, stone and pale gray. Darker hues let you choose from black, charcoal, slate and bronze.
Want something brighter? Check out metal roofing in red or blue. There are also vivid green tones similar to the verdigris that develops when copper roofing oxidizes.
If you’re struggling to find just the right shade, don’t worry. There are custom metal roofing colors available, too. Paint scanners can match a color sample to get a precise hue.
For another layer of interest, consider offering different roofing finishes. Your client might like textured or metallic finishes. There are also patterns made to look like antique rusted metal roofs without the actual rust.
An unpainted galvanized look is also popular. It works equally well with modern architecture and vintage homes.
Just as with color, there is a large menu of metal roofing types to explore. The type of roofing may affect what color choices and finishes are available.
Related article: How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost
There are six prime factors to consider when selecting metal roofing and choosing a shade:
The first consideration is usually aesthetics. You want a roofing color that matches or complements the color of the structure. Choosing a neutral tone, one in the same palette, or one opposite on the color wheel, will usually work best.
A similar hue will blend in for a seamless look. Alternately, a contrasting color makes a bold statement. Ask the customer what look they want to achieve.
You should also consider the style of the building or home and its time period when choosing a metal roof color.
For example, a contemporary public building might look great with the color punch of a contrasting roof shade. On the other hand, a historic home will probably look better with something more subtle.
Related to aesthetics are the visuals you can create with different roofing colors.
A light roof will make the top of the structure appear higher. This is ideal if you have a short building and want to make it look more spacious.
Conversely, a looming building can look more approachable with a darker roof. The dark hue will visually shorten the perceived height of the building.
There’s no law that says a metal roof has to be only one color. For customers after a unique look, suggest combining metal roofing shades. It may add to the interest that makes a property stand out.
Last but not least, you should think about how roofing colors interact with the local climate.
Light roofing colors reflect the sun and, therefore, keep the interior of the building cooler. They’re a good choice in hot climates.
If you are in a cold locale, you might want to suggest a darker roofing color. It will absorb sunlight and keep the occupants warmer during chilly months.
While metal roofing is very durable, some color coatings last longer than others. You will find that some dark or bright tones, especially in matte finishes, often fade faster.
When giving a client a metal roofing estimate, be sure to let them know how long they can expect the color to last. Some paints are mixed with solar reflecting particles that help prevent sun damage and heat transfer. However, they may not be as durable under adverse weather conditions. The customer should be aware of what they’re choosing.
The good news is that metal roofing can often be recoated as an additional service.
Climate effects go hand in hand with durability. In addition to considering reflectivity and heat absorption, what else should you keep in mind?
More than 128 million Americans live in coastal communities. Severe weather and harsh conditions are definitely worth your concern if your client base is close to the ocean.
Check the base roofing material itself, as well as the paint finish, to make sure it’s suited to the weather where it is being installed.
Related article: Severe Weather Roofing: Best Practices for Roofing Companies
Finally, what maintenance may be required of the owner? Will they need to clean the roof periodically to preserve the color?
Light shades show dirt, mold and plant debris. Will this affect the general appearance of the roof?
They should understand what they’re getting into before choosing a roofing color.
If you’re a roofing professional, knowing about the latest roofing trends is essential. That includes metal roofing colors.
Your clients will surely want to know what’s new right now. You can be a design resource for them by understanding trends and making recommendations.
Particularly with new construction, clients will want the latest in metal roofing options. So, if you work with a home builder or general contractor, be prepared to give them choices that look current or even design-forward.
Some of the most popular metal roofing colors today include:
Of course, not everyone wants a trendy roof. Some clients will want classic hues that give their property a timeless look. Or they may have a home built 100 or 200 years ago that requires an authentic appearance.
As mentioned above, you can always create a custom color or color combination. Colonial and Victorian homes, in particular, have traditional color palettes. These properties tend to use more muted hues in roofing.
Victorian and Edwardian homes sometimes even combine many paint colors for trim. Therefore, using a variety of roofing colors can complement this.
You will also find conventional palettes and finishes with certain architectural styles like:
Sometimes, the structure is not painted and may be made of brick, stone or stucco. In that case, you may be custom matching the roof to the natural material.
Brick is on the rise in the U.S. after a long period of dormancy. One builder study showed that 42% of large-scale builders are constructing more brick homes than just three years ago.
With stone homes, you will likely want to pick up tones in the stone when selecting a metal roof color. Is the stone on the warmer or cooler end of the tone spectrum? You will want to match the warmth level to not clash.
Another place where custom colors shine is with commercial properties. The owner may want to make their building’s roof match the business’s logo. This lets customers instantly recognize the company. You may be asked to add a unique brilliant blue or fire engine red roof in this situation.
When working with clients to select metal roofing colors, how can you help them hone in on the best one? Follow these tips to land on the ideal shade:
Related article: Strategic Insights for the Roofing Industry
Original article and photo source: RoofSnap
Learn more about RoofSnap in their Coffee Shop Directory or visit www.roofsnap.com.
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