Best Roofing Shingle Colors for Michigan Homes?

Here's What You Should Know

When it comes to choosing roofing shingles for your Michigan home, most people focus on durability, cost, and brand. But there's one factor that can significantly impact your home's curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term satisfaction that often gets overlooked: color.

If you're wondering whether some shingle colors are better suited to Michigan than others, the answer is a firm yes. And the reasons go far beyond just aesthetics. The color you choose affects how your roof ages, how well it handles Michigan's wildly shifting weather, and how it blends with the surrounding environment.

Let’s explore why color matters and which roofing shingle colors are the best choices for homes in Michigan.

Why Shingle Color Matters in Michigan

1. Climate Considerations

Michigan experiences all four seasons—sometimes in one week. From heavy snow and ice in winter to heat and humidity in summer, your roof takes a beating.

• Darker shingles (like charcoal, black, or dark gray) absorb more heat. That can be a good thing in Michigan winters—they help snow and ice melt faster.

• Lighter shingles reflect sunlight and can help reduce cooling costs in the summer, but this effect is minimal unless your attic is poorly ventilated.

The takeaway: In Michigan, slightly darker tones are often ideal for helping shed snow and blending well year-round.

2. Moss and Algae Resistance

In the humid, shaded environments of northern Michigan or lakefront areas, algae and moss growth are common roofing headaches. Certain colors, like very light grays or greens, can show these streaks and stains more clearly.

Choose shingles with algae-resistant technology (like GAF’s StainGuard Plus or CertainTeed’s algae-blocking copper granules) and avoid colors that show streaking easily.

3. Curb Appeal and Neighborhood Aesthetics

Michigan is home to a wide variety of architectural styles: traditional colonials, rustic cabins, mid-century ranches, and modern farmhouses. The right shingle color can tie your exterior together or make it clash.

• Want your home to blend with natural surroundings? Go with earth tones like driftwood, barkwood, or weathered wood.

• Have white, gray, or blue siding? Opt for contrast with dark gray or black shingles for a crisp, modern look.

• Brick homes look best with neutral, slightly warm tones like slate or charcoal blends.

Choosing a color that suits your home’s style and your neighborhood makes a huge difference in perceived value.

Key Benefits of SBS Shingles:

• Improved Energy Efficiency: Reflects UV rays and reduces attic temperatures.

• Extended Roof Lifespan: Less heat means less expansion, contraction, and wear on roofing materials. (The changes from Summer to Winter cause expansion and contraction which will in turn lead to hair line cracks and separation. These cracks and separations are some of the biggest enemies when it comes to the length of the shingle. The polyurethane foam has an elastomeric component to mitigate the damage that occurs with a standard asphalt shingle.)

• Comfortable Living Spaces: Keeps indoor temperatures more stable without overloading your HVAC system.

• Environmentally Friendly: Reducing energy use lowers your carbon footprint.

Many top manufacturers now offer SBS technology integrated into their most popular lines. It’s a smart investment if you're planning a new roof, especially if your home gets a lot of sun exposure or has poor attic ventilation.

Some insurance companies in select states are actually requiring these SBS shingles rather than the standard asphalt shingles. Though it's not required in Michigan. It may be an indication of where the industry is headed to due hail damage across the US.

If you're interested in this type of shingle, please contact Allied Siding and Roofing

Shingle Colors to Be Cautious With in Michigan

🛑 Bright or Light Greens - While green shingles can look great on the right house, they often clash with surrounding foliage or look dated. They also show algae stains more clearly.

🛑 Red or Terra Cotta - These colors are more common in the Southwest or Mediterranean-style homes—not typically found in Michigan. They often clash with local architecture and seasonal color changes.

🛑 Super Light Grays or Whites - These can show dirt, algae, and streaks quickly in Michigan’s variable weather. They also don’t offer much warmth or contrast.

These colors can be sourced at ABC Supply in New Hudson MI

Tips for Choosing the Right Color

1. Match Your Fixed Elements: Pick colors that pair well with things that won’t change: your siding, stone, brick, or windows.

2. Use Manufacturer Tools: Brands like GAF, and CertainTeed, offer online visualizers to preview your home.

3. Request Samples: Shingles look different in real life than online or in brochures. Always view actual samples in natural light.

4. Consider Resale Value: Neutral and classic colors tend to appeal to more buyers if you ever sell your home.

5. Look Around Your Neighborhood: Aim to stand out just enough without clashing.

Conclusion: The Best Roofing Shingle Color is the One That Works With Michigan

In Michigan, where the seasons change fast and your roof works hard all year long, your shingle color matters more than you might think. It’s not just about style—it’s about performance, longevity, and how your home fits into its environment.

Whether you go with a classic charcoal, a warm driftwood, or a natural slate gray, the key is choosing a color that complements your home, handles the weather, and holds up over time.

Need help making the call? At Allied Siding and Roofing, we’ve helped many Michigan homeowners pick the perfect roofing color, and we’re happy to do the same for you.

Call us today or visit BuildWithAllied.com to schedule your consultation.