Roofers: They're Number One

If you can see that shingles are pulling away from your roof, then now is the time to start thinking about your roof replacement options. Roofing shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials, and they have been for decades. Due to their popularity, you have many different options to choose from, including whether you want a dark or light color. Dark and light shingles each have their own benefits, so read on to find out what they are.

Dark Shingles

Dark shingles are extremely common with homes featuring black, brown, and gray shingles. These shingles offer curb appeal and good contrast in tone when paired with lighter-colored homes. Shingles are also ideal in colder climate areas. The dark shingles absorb the sun's rays which help to keep your attic warm in the winter. This can keep your home warmer overall, especially across the upper levels of the house.

The sun can also keep the roof warmer which will reduce snow accumulation and ice dams. Since ice dams can cause leaks and general water damage to the roof, this also means a reduction in roof leaking problems.

While increased sun absorption is ideal for keeping your house warmer, the sun's UV rays can also lead to shingle damage. Shingles may also dry out more quickly and you may see some curling and ripping at the end of the roof's lifespan. 

Light Shingles

Light shingles are ideal for warmer climates where you want to keep your roof as cool as possible. They allow for more sun reflection, especially when paired with lighter granules in white or gray. This can in turn reduce air conditioning costs. For further cost reduction, ask your roofer about shingles made with cooling granules. These shingles are sometimes referred to as "cool" shingles and the installation may allow you to qualify for a roofing federal tax credit. 

Not only may you get a tax credit, but some warm weather states have energy code requirements that must be followed in relation to roofing. Lighter shingles are more likely to meet these requirements due to energy savings, so it's best to consider them in the first place. 

A cooler attic space will also protect you from the accumulation of mold within the home. This is ideal if your climate is more humid.

To learn more about shingle colors and what is best for your specific home, contact a residential roofing construction service in your area.