Red brick homes exude timeless charm and classic appeal, but choosing the right roof color to complement that distinctive façade can be surprisingly challenging. The roof typically accounts for 25-40% of your home’s visible exterior, making it a crucial design element that can either elevate your home’s appearance or create an awkward visual disconnect. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best roof color options for red brick houses, examining how different colors interact with various brick tones, and providing practical advice to help you make an informed decision that balances aesthetics, energy efficiency, and resale value.
Understanding Your Red Brick’s Undertones
Before selecting a roof color, it’s essential to identify the specific undertones in your red brick. Not all “red” brick is the same, and understanding your particular shade is the foundation of making an appropriate roof color choice.
Common Red Brick Variations and Their Undertones
- Traditional Red Brick: Classic red bricks typically have warm orange or rust undertones
- Cherry Red Brick: Contains deeper reddish-purple undertones
- Rose Brick: Features pink or salmon undertones
- Burgundy Brick: Has deeper red with purple or brown undertones
- Orange-Red Brick: Contains prominent orange or terracotta undertones
Pro Tip: Take multiple photos of your brick in different lighting conditions (morning, midday, and evening) to accurately identify its true undertones. These photos will be invaluable when considering roof color samples.
Best Roof Colors for Red Brick Houses
Let’s explore the most complementary roof color options for red brick homes, analyzing how each choice affects your home’s overall appearance.
1. Black or Charcoal Gray Roofing
Black and dark charcoal gray roofs create a striking contrast against red brick, resulting in a sophisticated, timeless appearance that works with virtually any brick undertone.
Benefits of Black/Charcoal Roofs with Red Brick:
- Creates classic, high-contrast look
- Complements traditional architectural styles
- Hides dirt and debris better than lighter colors
- Anchors the house visually, especially for larger homes
Considerations:
- Can absorb more heat in sunny climates (potentially increasing cooling costs)
- May make small homes appear top-heavy without adequate architectural details
According to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors, homes with black or charcoal roofs paired with red brick typically saw a 3-5% higher perceived value compared to homes with less complementary color combinations.
2. Medium to Dark Gray Roofing
Medium to dark gray roofs offer versatility and sophisticated charm when paired with red brick. This combination creates a balanced, harmonious look that’s become increasingly popular in recent years.
Benefits of Gray Roofs with Red Brick:
- Provides subtle contrast without being too stark
- Works particularly well with brick that has gray or blue undertones
- Complements modern and transitional architectural styles
- Offers excellent versatility with trim and accent colors
Considerations:
- Light gray may appear washed out against vibrant red brick
- May require more frequent cleaning to maintain appearance in areas with high pollen or tree coverage
Designer Amanda Wilson of Metropolitan Home Design notes, “Medium gray roofing offers the perfect balance with red brick—it’s neither too dramatic nor too subtle, creating a refined palette that works across architectural styles.”
3. Dark Brown or Bronze Roofing
Dark brown or bronze roofing creates a warm, harmonious palette when paired with red brick, especially bricks with orange or rust undertones.
Benefits of Brown/Bronze Roofs with Red Brick:
- Creates a cohesive, earthy aesthetic
- Particularly flattering for brick with orange or terracotta undertones
- Excellent for traditional, craftsman, or rustic architectural styles
- Provides visual warmth in cooler climates or heavily wooded settings
Considerations:
- May create too much warmth for very orange-toned brick
- Can appear dated if not paired with contemporary trim colors and landscaping
“Brown roofing materials in deeper bronze or chocolate tones create a cohesive palette with red brick that feels organic and timeless,” says architectural color consultant James Martinez.
4. Dark Green Roofing
Dark green roofing creates a distinctive, nature-inspired contrast with red brick that’s particularly striking on traditional homes.
Benefits of Dark Green Roofs with Red Brick:
- Creates a complementary color relationship (red and green are opposite on the color wheel)
- Excellent for homes in wooded settings or with significant landscaping
- Works particularly well with brick that has purple or burgundy undertones
- Provides distinctive character without appearing trendy
Considerations:
- Requires careful consideration of trim colors to avoid a “Christmas” effect
- Limited availability in some roofing material types
- May be less appealing to some buyers at resale time
Dark green has been gaining popularity, with home design platform Houzz reporting a 38% increase in searches for “green roof” paired with “brick home” between 2020 and 2023.
5. Dark Blue or Slate Blue Roofing
Blue roofing in darker slate or navy tones creates a sophisticated, unexpected pairing with red brick that works especially well for homes with a coastal or traditional aesthetic.
Benefits of Dark Blue Roofs with Red Brick:
- Creates distinctive visual interest
- Particularly flattering for brick with purple or burgundy undertones
- Makes a subtle architectural statement
- Works well in coastal or waterfront settings
Considerations:
- Less common, which may limit availability in some roofing materials
- Requires careful selection of complementary trim colors
- May be perceived as trendy rather than timeless by some buyers
“A slate blue roof with red brick is the equivalent of pairing denim with a burgundy sweater—unexpected but remarkably harmonious,” notes architectural historian Emily Richardson.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Roof Color
Beyond pure aesthetics, several practical factors should influence your roof color decision:
Climate and Energy Efficiency
Your local climate plays a significant role in determining the optimal roof color for energy efficiency:
- Warmer Climates: Lighter roof colors reflect more sunlight and can reduce cooling costs by 20-30% according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Consider lighter gray or tan options if energy efficiency is a priority.
- Cooler Climates: Darker roof colors absorb heat and can help reduce heating costs during winter months. Black, dark brown, or dark gray may be more energy-efficient choices.
- Mixed Climates: Consider middle-range colors like medium gray or weathered wood tones that balance heat absorption and reflection throughout changing seasons.
Architectural Style of Your Home
Your home’s architectural style should influence your roof color selection:
- Colonial or Federal: Traditional black, dark gray, or slate blue
- Craftsman or Bungalow: Dark brown, bronze, or forest green
- Tudor: Black, dark brown, or dark green
- Modern/Contemporary: Charcoal gray, black, or dark bronze
- Mediterranean: Terra cotta or warm brown tones
Neighborhood Context and HOA Regulations
Before making a final decision, consider:
- Existing neighborhood aesthetic: While contrast is good, a roof that dramatically differs from others in your neighborhood may look out of place
- HOA requirements: Many homeowners’ associations have specific guidelines regarding roof colors and materials
- Historic district regulations: Homes in designated historic areas may have additional restrictions to maintain period authenticity
Best Roofing Materials for Red Brick Homes
The material of your roof affects not only its appearance but also its longevity, maintenance requirements, and cost:
Asphalt Shingles
Pros: Affordable, wide color selection, easy installation Cons: Shorter lifespan (15-30 years), less dimensional appearance Best colors with red brick: Black, charcoal gray, weathered wood, dark brown
Metal Roofing
Pros: Longevity (40-70 years), energy efficiency, distinctive appearance Cons: Higher initial cost, can be noisy during rain Best colors with red brick: Charcoal gray, dark bronze, slate blue, matte black
Clay or Concrete Tiles
Pros: Extremely durable (50+ years), distinctive appearance, excellent for certain architectural styles Cons: Heavy (may require structural reinforcement), expensive Best colors with red brick: Terra cotta, dark brown, slate gray
Slate
Pros: Natural elegance, extremely long-lasting (75+ years), historical authenticity Cons: Very expensive, heavy, limited color variation Best colors with red brick: Natural slate blue-gray, black, mixed blends
Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Colors for Red Brick Houses
What roof color goes best with red brick?
Dark gray or black roofs typically offer the most versatile and timeless pairing with red brick. These neutral colors create a pleasing contrast that highlights the warmth of the brick while providing a sophisticated anchor for the home’s appearance.
What color roof is best for a red house?
For homes with red siding (rather than brick), consider complementary colors like deep charcoal gray, black, or dark brown to create visual balance. Avoid reddish tones that might clash or create a monochromatic appearance.
What colors go best with red brick overall?
When considering trim and accent colors to accompany your red brick and roof, neutral whites, creams, and taupes work well, as do deeper accents like navy blue, forest green, or black for shutters and doors.
Is a black roof too hot for red brick in warm climates?
While black roofs do absorb more heat, modern roofing materials often incorporate reflective technology that mitigates this effect. If energy efficiency is a primary concern in hot climates, consider “cool roof” options in darker colors that reflect more infrared radiation while maintaining the desired appearance.
Making Your Final Decision: Practical Steps
Follow these steps to make your final roof color selection:
- Gather physical samples of your top 3-4 color choices from roofing manufacturers
- View samples outdoors next to your brick in different lighting conditions
- Create a digital mock-up using home visualization software or apps
- Drive around your neighborhood to see similar brick homes with different roof colors
- Consider the long-term commitment – most roofs last 20+ years
- Consult a professional designer or architect for personalized recommendations
Conclusion: Harmony Between Brick and Roof Creates Lasting Beauty
Selecting the perfect roof color for your red brick home involves balancing aesthetics, architectural style, climate considerations, and personal preference. While dark neutral colors like black, charcoal gray, and dark brown offer the most timeless appeal, don’t be afraid to consider distinctive options like deep green or slate blue if they better complement your specific brick color and home style.
Remember that your roof is a long-term investment that significantly impacts your home’s curb appeal and potential resale value. By carefully analyzing your brick’s undertones and considering all the factors discussed in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make a choice that enhances your home’s beauty for decades to come.
Whether you opt for the classic contrast of black, the sophisticated balance of gray, or the warm harmony of brown, the right roof color will transform your red brick house into a standout home that perfectly balances tradition and style.
