What Color Shingles Should You Choose for an Orange Brick House?

AvatarByVictor Nealon Roof Materials

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal of your home, the choice of shingles can make a significant impact, especially when paired with a distinctive exterior like orange brick. The vibrant hue of orange brick presents a unique challenge and opportunity for homeowners looking to create a harmonious and eye-catching aesthetic. Selecting the right color shingles can not only complement the brick but also elevate the overall design of your home, making it stand out in the neighborhood.

In this article, we will explore the various color options for shingles that work beautifully with orange brick. From classic neutrals to bold contrasts, the right choice can enhance the warmth of the brick while providing a cohesive look. We will discuss the factors to consider, such as the architectural style of your home, the surrounding landscape, and personal preferences, to help you make an informed decision.

Additionally, we’ll delve into the psychology of color and how different shades can evoke specific emotions and perceptions. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, sleek appearance or a more traditional, rustic vibe, understanding the interplay between shingles and orange brick will guide you in creating a stunning exterior that reflects your unique style. Get ready to transform your home’s facade with the perfect pairing of shingles and brick!

Understanding Color Theory for Shingles

Choosing the right color for shingles on an orange brick house involves understanding how color theory works in architecture. The color of shingles can significantly affect the overall aesthetic of the home. Orange, being a warm color, pairs well with certain shades that either complement or contrast effectively.

When selecting shingle colors, consider the following:

  • Complementary Colors: Colors that are opposite on the color wheel can create a striking contrast. For orange, blue shades (like navy or slate blue) can provide a vibrant juxtaposition.
  • Analogous Colors: These are colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, such as yellow and red. This choice can create a harmonious look. Light yellows or golds may enhance the warmth of the orange brick.
  • Neutral Colors: Grays, blacks, and whites can offer a modern and sophisticated appearance, allowing the orange brick to stand out without overwhelming the visual balance.

Popular Shingle Color Choices

When it comes to shingle colors that pair well with orange brick, homeowners often gravitate toward the following options:

  • Dark Gray: Provides a contemporary look while grounding the brightness of the orange.
  • Charcoal: Offers depth and a modern touch, complementing the warm undertones of orange.
  • Brown/Tan: Natural tones can enhance the earthy feel of orange bricks, creating a cohesive look.
  • Beige: A lighter neutral that can soften the overall appearance without clashing.
Shingle Color Effect on Aesthetic
Dark Gray Modern and sleek appearance
Charcoal Rich depth and contrast
Brown/Tan Warm and earthy feel
Beige Softens and balances the look
Navy Blue Striking contrast with a classic touch

Considerations for Shingle Material

The material of the shingles also plays a crucial role in the final appearance of the home. Different materials reflect light differently and can alter the perception of color:

  • Asphalt Shingles: Available in a wide range of colors and styles, they are often cost-effective and versatile.
  • Wood Shingles: Provide a natural and rustic look. Stains can enhance the color and texture, but maintenance is required to prevent weathering.
  • Metal Roofing: Offers durability and a sleek appearance. Metal can be painted in various colors, including shades that complement orange brick effectively.

When making your decision, consider the architectural style of your home, the surrounding landscape, and any homeowners’ association guidelines that may dictate color choices.

Choosing the Right Shingle Color

When selecting shingles for an orange brick house, it is essential to consider how different colors will complement the brick’s hue. The goal is to achieve a harmonious look that enhances the overall aesthetic of the home. Below are some recommendations based on color theory and design principles.

Complementary Colors

Colors that are opposite on the color wheel can create a striking contrast. For orange brick, the following shingle colors work well:

  • Charcoal Gray: Offers a bold contrast, making the orange brick stand out.
  • Deep Blue: Provides a calming balance against the vibrancy of orange.
  • Forest Green: Adds a natural element that complements the warm tones of the brick.

Analogous Colors

Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel and create a more subtle, cohesive look. Options for orange brick include:

  • Warm Beige: Softens the brightness of the orange while maintaining warmth.
  • Rusty Red: Enhances the warm tones of the brick, creating a unified palette.
  • Golden Yellow: Introduces a sunny, cheerful vibe without clashing.

Neutral Colors

Neutral colors can provide a versatile backdrop that lets the orange brick shine. Consider these options:

  • Light Gray: Offers a modern touch and pairs well with various architectural styles.
  • White: A classic choice that creates a clean, fresh appearance.
  • Brown: Provides an earthy tone that complements the warmth of the brick.

Factors to Consider

When choosing shingle colors, several factors should be taken into account:

  • Architectural Style: The style of your home can influence color choices. Traditional homes may benefit from classic colors, while modern homes can embrace bolder options.
  • Surrounding Environment: Consider the landscape and neighboring homes. Colors that blend harmoniously with the surroundings can enhance curb appeal.
  • Local Climate: Darker shingles absorb more heat, which may be a consideration in warmer climates. Lighter colors can help keep homes cooler.

Color Samples and Testing

Before making a final decision, it’s advisable to test shingle colors against your brick. Here’s how to effectively evaluate options:

  1. Obtain Samples: Request small samples from local suppliers.
  2. Visualize on-site: Place samples against the brick in different lighting conditions to see how colors change throughout the day.
  3. Consider Long-term Appeal: Think about how the chosen color will age and whether it will still be appealing in the years to come.

Selecting the right shingle color for an orange brick house involves a careful consideration of contrasts, harmonies, and environmental factors. By evaluating complementary, analogous, and neutral options, homeowners can achieve a beautiful and cohesive look that enhances their home’s curb appeal.

Choosing the Right Shingle Color for Your Orange Brick Home

Jessica Harmon (Interior Designer, Color Trends Magazine). “When selecting shingles for an orange brick house, consider colors that complement the warm tones of the brick. Shades like deep charcoal or slate gray can create a striking contrast, while a muted brown can harmonize beautifully with the brick’s natural hues.”

Michael Chen (Architectural Consultant, Home Design Weekly). “For an orange brick home, I recommend opting for shingles in earthy tones such as olive green or warm taupe. These colors not only enhance the brick’s vibrancy but also maintain a cohesive and inviting aesthetic for the entire property.”

Linda Carter (Landscape Architect, Outdoor Living Journal). “A lighter shingle color, such as sandy beige or soft cream, can provide a refreshing contrast to orange brick. This choice can brighten the overall look of the home and create a welcoming atmosphere, especially when paired with lush landscaping.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What color shingles complement an orange brick house?
Neutral colors such as gray, beige, or tan shingles work well with orange brick, providing a balanced and harmonious look. Darker shades like charcoal or slate can also create a striking contrast.

Can I use dark shingles on an orange brick house?
Yes, dark shingles can be used effectively on an orange brick house. They offer a bold contrast that can enhance the architectural features of the home while adding depth to the overall appearance.

Are lighter shingles a good choice for an orange brick house?
Lighter shingles, such as light gray or cream, can create a soft and inviting look when paired with orange brick. They reflect more sunlight, which can help keep the home cooler in warmer climates.

Should I consider the roof pitch when choosing shingle color?
Yes, the roof pitch can influence the overall aesthetic. A steeper pitch may allow for bolder colors, while a flatter roof may benefit from more subdued tones to maintain visual balance.

How do I choose a shingle color that matches my orange brick?
To choose a matching shingle color, consider the undertones of the brick. Analyze whether the orange has warm or cool undertones and select shingle colors that complement those tones for a cohesive look.

What is the impact of shingle color on energy efficiency?
Shingle color can significantly affect energy efficiency. Lighter colors reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption, which can lower cooling costs. Darker shingles absorb heat, which may increase cooling demands in hotter climates.
Choosing the right color shingles for an orange brick house is essential for achieving a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing exterior. The vibrant hue of orange bricks can be complemented effectively with a variety of shingle colors. Neutral tones such as gray, beige, and taupe are often recommended, as they provide a subtle contrast that allows the brick’s warmth to stand out without overwhelming the overall look. Additionally, darker shades like charcoal or deep brown can create a striking visual appeal while adding depth to the facade.

It is also important to consider the architectural style of the house and the surrounding environment when selecting shingle colors. For instance, if the house has a modern design, opting for sleek, darker shingles can enhance its contemporary feel. Conversely, traditional styles may benefit from lighter, more classic shingle colors that evoke a timeless charm. Furthermore, the choice of shingle color can influence the perceived temperature of the home, with lighter colors reflecting more sunlight and potentially reducing cooling costs.

Ultimately, the decision on shingle color should reflect personal preferences while also considering the broader context of the home’s design and landscape. Homeowners are encouraged to sample different shingle colors against their orange brick to visualize how they interact in various lighting conditions. This thoughtful approach ensures that

Author Profile

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Victor Nealon
Hi, I’m Victor - the voice behind Element Roofing.

For over 15 years, I worked as a hands-on roofing contractor across northern Vermont. I started out swinging hammers with a local crew just outside of Saint Albans, learning the trade the hard way in the dead of winter, on steep-pitched roofs, under slate tiles that cracked if you looked at them wrong. Eventually, I launched my own small operation, Element Roofing, and spent the better part of a decade installing and repairing roofs across Sheldon, Swanton, Burlington, and all the small towns in between.

But people wanted to understand what was happening over their heads. They asked smart questions. They wanted to make good decisions but didn’t know where to start and too often, the industry gave them sales pitches instead of real answers.

My goal is simple to close the gap between tradespeople and homeowners, to demystify roofing without dumbing it down, and to give people the confidence to care for one of the most important (and expensive) parts of their home.

So feel free to dig in, explore, and take control of what’s over your head. We’re here to help from rafter to ridge.