When it comes to choosing a roof, most homeowners focus on durability, cost, and style—but here’s a detail that often gets overlooked: color.
Yes, your roof’s color isn’t just about curb appeal—it can actually affect your home’s comfort and energy bills, especially in sunny, high-altitude states like Utah and Colorado. The right color can help keep your home cooler in the summer and even lower your air conditioning costs, while the wrong one could leave you cranking the thermostat and sweating through your utility bills.
At Bros Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference roof color can make, especially in our climate where summer heat is intense and sunlight is stronger due to elevation. Let’s break down why roof color matters, how it impacts energy efficiency, and what to consider when making your choice.
The Science Behind Roof Color and Heat
It all comes down to how different colors absorb or reflect sunlight.
- Light colors reflect more of the sun’s rays, reducing the amount of heat your roof absorbs.
- Dark colors absorb more heat, which can raise attic and indoor temperatures.
This concept is called solar reflectance—and it’s a major factor in how hard your air conditioning has to work. In sunny areas, especially at higher elevations, the difference in heat absorption between light and dark roofs can be dramatic.
How It Plays Out in Utah & Colorado
Our states have a unique combination of factors that make roof color even more important:
- High altitude – UV rays are stronger here, increasing heat absorption for darker roofs.
- Dry climate – While humidity isn’t usually a problem, intense sun exposure means roofs take more of a beating over time.
- Temperature swings – Some areas see hot days and cool nights, which can create expansion and contraction stresses on roofing materials.
A roof color that works in a milder, cloudier region might not be the best choice for homes in Salt Lake City, Grand Junction, or the surrounding areas.
The Benefits of Choosing the Right Roof Color
- Lower Cooling Costs
A light-colored roof can help reflect sunlight and keep your attic cooler, reducing how often your air conditioner needs to run. - Better Indoor Comfort
Less heat transfer from your roof means your home stays cooler, even on the hottest afternoons. - Longer Roof Lifespan
Heat can speed up wear on shingles and other materials. By keeping roof temperatures lower, you may extend its service life. - Environmental Impact
Using less energy for cooling means fewer greenhouse gas emissions—good for the planet and your wallet.
Choosing the Right Roof Color for Energy Efficiency
When we work with homeowners in Utah and Colorado, we recommend considering:
- Roofing material – Some materials, like metal roofing, can be coated with reflective finishes even in darker colors.
- Neighborhood guidelines – If you have an HOA, check for approved color ranges.
- Your home’s style – The right color balances energy efficiency and visual appeal.
- Climate zone – Homes in lower-elevation, hotter areas may benefit more from light colors than those in cooler mountain regions.
Light vs. Dark Roofs: A Quick Comparison
Light Roof Colors:
- Reflect more sunlight.
- Keep attic spaces cooler.
- Best for hot, sunny climates.
- May require more frequent cleaning to maintain appearance.
Dark Roof Colors:
- Absorb more heat (good for cold climates).
- Can speed snowmelt in winter.
- Offer bold, dramatic curb appeal.
- May increase summer cooling costs in hot areas.
Energy-Saving Tips Beyond Roof Color
While color is a big factor, there are other ways to improve energy efficiency:
- Proper insulation – Keeps heat from transferring into living spaces.
- Attic ventilation – Allows hot air to escape, reducing strain on cooling systems.
- Cool roof coatings – Special finishes can improve reflectivity even for darker roofs.
- Regular maintenance – Clean, damage-free roofs perform better in both heat and cold.
Why Work with Bros Roofing for Your Roof Upgrade
Choosing the right roof color is part science, part style, and part strategy for long-term savings. At Bros Roofing, we combine local experience with expert installation to help you pick a color and material that works for your home and your energy bills.
We understand the unique challenges of Utah and Colorado weather, from the sun’s intensity to the quick shifts in temperature. We’ll walk you through your options, show you real-world examples, and make sure your new roof is both beautiful and built for performance.
Make the Smart Choice for Your Roof and Your Energy Bills
Your roof does more than protect your home—it plays a big role in how comfortable (and affordable) your home is to live in. By choosing the right color and material, you can stay cooler in summer, spend less on energy, and enjoy a roof that stands up to the Utah and Colorado climate.
Bros Roofing in Grand Junction, Colorado is here to help you make the best decision for your home. Whether you’re replacing your roof, building new, or just exploring your options, we’ll give you expert advice and top-quality workmanship.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find the perfect roof color to beat the heat without sacrificing style.
