Why Roof Design and Color Matter More Than You Might Think

If you’re going to do a total tear-off and replacement of your roof, you may do so with the home’s overall value in mind. After all, if you’re going to move on from your residence at some point and you want to get maximum value for it, you will want it to be as aesthetically appealing as possible. You also want to make some practical upgrades that potential buyers will like.
A new roof can raise your home’s value quite a bit, but it can also do some additional things you might not immediately consider. For instance, there’s value in using certain kinds of roofing materials, even in the color you choose.
Let’s explore that in a little more detail right now so you’ll understand why your roofing decisions may make a long-term impact.
The Roof’s Color and Why It Matters
If you install a new roof, you might choose to get one that comes with a membrane. A roof membrane resembles a flexible or semi-flexible material sheet that you’ll use for waterproofing. It will protect the home’s structure if potential water damage comes into play.
Switching to a white membrane causes 14% in energy savings, and that’s a key reason why you might want to go with that color if you’re talking to a company about installing a new roof anytime soon. You can also get a roof membrane in a different color, but it’s seldom worth it.
You might only want a darker roof membrane because you feel it matches the home’s aesthetic more. However, you’ll probably want those savings more than a roof that perfectly matches your home’s paint color.
How Does the Roof’s Membrane Color Save You Money?
If you talk to someone in the roofing industry and say you want a membrane as part of the installation, they might bring up something called the “cool roof” phenomenon. Basically, they mean that if you install a white roof membrane, you’re reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it.
That might not matter so much in the winter, but in the height of summer, it’s going to make a huge difference. If you live somewhere like the American Southwest, for example, you might encounter sweltering temperatures in July and August.
You will need to pay to keep your house cool if you don’t want to feel like you’re melting. On cloudless days the sun will have unrestricted access. A white roof membrane repels the sun and can drop your interior temperature by several degrees.
In some instances, you might see a temperature swing of as much as 50 degrees Celsius. Think about how much money you’ll save on energy bills with that kind of change.
What About Roof Design?
Roof design matters as much as the membrane color. For instance, if you have a more energy-efficient roof, that can help preserve your HVAC system and extend its life. Your HVAC system controls the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in your home. Incorporating structural steel trusses in architecture can provide additional support and stability to the roof, allowing for more complex or expansive designs. These trusses not only enhance the architectural aesthetic but also contribute to the roof’s overall durability, which can further aid in regulating indoor temperatures and reducing strain on the HVAC system.
Imagine again a scenario where you live somewhere that gets very hot at certain times of the year. If you have a more energy-efficient roof, your system will not have to work as hard to keep your house’s interior reasonably comfortable.
You can also point to the home’s new energy-efficient roof as a key selling point if you decide to move on. Most people don’t stay in a house forever, and this kind of upgrade can mean a difference in the offer price of tens of thousands of dollars.

Your Overall Comfort Level
Even without getting into all of these details, you should a lot more comfortable waking up in a home with a well-designed roof in many instances. A roof that reflects the sunlight will give you a living space that’s more able to regulate the punishing rays of the fiery orb that both gives life and can also make it very unpleasant. With the right roof design, you’re in better shape to enjoy your time in a home for as long as you choose to stay there.
If you’re putting on a new roof, you can use something like OSB or plywood instead of hardwood. If you can get those materials in light colors, that would be so much better.
Talk to any roofer you are thinking about hiring about these factors. They should have some suggestions before you start the project. Mention color and roof design elements specifically and see what they say.