We all know the roof is more than just a top to your house, right? It’s like the crown of your home, taking up nearly half of the overall look. Not only does it play a huge role in protecting everything inside, but it’s also a big part of how your home is seen from the outside. The right roof color can completely transform the vibe of your house. So, if you have a red-brick home, choosing the perfect roof color isn’t just about matching; it’s about making your house stand out and shine.
Why the Roof Color Really Matters
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Your roof is more than just a cover overhead. It plays a massive role in your home’s “first impression.” When you’ve got a red brick house, your roof is like the hat on a stylish outfit. Pick it right and your home will look like never before. Pick it wrong … well, let’s just say you might regret it when guests roll up.
Also, the roof color for a red brick house affects how your brick looks. That deep warmth in the brick can either pop or fade, depending on what’s above. So yeah, this decision is worth taking a little extra time on.
Start With Your Home’s Style & Surroundings
Before talking about colors, let’s talk about context:
- Architectural style: Is your home more traditional (symmetrical lines, classic shutters, maybe a portico) or more modern (clean lines, minimal detailing, bold accents)? Different styles call for different roof moods.
- Accent colors & trim: Are your window frames, fascia, and gutters dark? Light? Neutral? That matters. These accents will help guide what roof color for a red brick house will feel right beside your red brick.
- Neighborhood & surroundings: You may want to take a walk. Look at nearby red brick houses, roofs that you like (or don’t). That gives you real‑world inspiration rather than just swatches on a screen.
Roof Colors for Red Brick Houses That Consistently Work
Here are some rock‑solid roof colors for a red brick house. With each, I’ll explain why they work and how to decide if they’re right for you.
Dark Charcoal / Slate Grey
Credit: kellybernierdesigns.com
If you love dark paints, this one’s for you. Dark roofs like charcoal or slate grey bring instant contrast and sophistication when paired with red brick. They anchor the house visually.
Why it works
- The darkness pulls in the eye, letting the rich red of your brick shine, while the roof recedes. Especially strong if your trim or accents are dark.
When it’s right
- If you have darker trim, rocker exterior colors, or a modern vibe.
Tip
Make sure the tone of gray doesn’t lean too cool (blue‑grey) unless you want a sharp contrast. A warm gray might marry better with red brick, which often has warm undertones.
Mossy Greens / Deep Forest Tones
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Yes, green! Believe it or not, deep moss or forest green roofs can pair beautifully with red brick. It gives a natural, earthy feel.
Why it works
- Green sits opposite red on the color wheel, but when it’s a muted, dark version of green, it doesn’t scream “look at me,” it complements.
When it’s right
- If your home has green shutters, natural wood accents, a lush yard, or if you want a cozy “nest” feel instead of bold.
Tip
Avoid bright Kelly greens. Go for the richer, subdued version so it still feels elegant.
Warm Brown / Chestnut / Weathered Wood Tones
Credit: fivestarpainting.com
If your brick has warm undertones (terracotta, copper, orange reds) – this is a sweet match. A roof in a warm brown or chestnut shingle works like butter on toast.
Why it works
- It picks up the warmth of the brick and gives a cohesive, pulled‑together look.
When it’s right
- Traditional homes, lots of wood trim, shutters, and that old‑timely charm.
Tip
Because everything is warm, you won’t get a strong contrast. That’s okay if you prefer “quiet elegance.” But if you love bold, go for darker instead.
Neutral Tan / Driftwood / Light Grey
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Maybe you’re not after big contrast or deep tones. Maybe you want the roof to gently fade into the background and let the brick dominate. In this case, lighter neutrals work.
Why it works
- It lends a breezy, approachable look. Especially good for lighter‑toned red brick or lots of white trim.
When it’s right
- If your home style is more cottage, coastal, or you’ve got lighter accents and want an airy vibe.
Tip
With a lighter roof, you’ll want to check how it handles weathering and stains; lighter roofs show more wear.
The “Wrong” Colors You’ll Probably Want to Avoid
Just so you’re aware of the pitfalls:
- Bright or pastel roofs (like sky blue, bright red, vivid green) often fight the red brick instead of complementing it.
- Super high‑contrast colors (like a pure black next to a bright, warm red brick house) can look harsh unless your home is ultra‑modern.
- Roofs that pick up only one tiny accent color (e.g., your front door is purple and you try to match). If that door changes, your roof suddenly feels off. By the way, while you’re reworking exterior details, check out our guide on how to pick the right paint for your front door. It’s a handy read.
How To Pick Your Roof Color for Red Brick House
Let’s walk through a simple process so you feel clear and confident.
- Take photos of your home from several angles in daylight (early morning and late afternoon if you can). Brick color shifts in different light.
- Look at your brick’s undertone: Is it warm (orange/copper), or cooler (almost brown/mahogany)?
- Check existing accent colors: Trim, shutters, doors, gutters, what’s their tone?
- Choose 2‑3 shingle color swatches or sample shingles: One darker neutral (charcoal), one warm brown, one moss/forest green (optional).
- Hold the samples up on site: Physically hold or tape them near the roof edge, view from the ground. See how it “reads” in the real world.
- Think about long‑term maintenance: Are you okay with a lighter roof showing more dirt? If you go dark, will it make your home too “heavy”?
- Get final approval in different lighting: Morning, midday, and evening. Red brick looks different at each.
- Commit and get a pro opinion: If you’re re‑roofing anyway, a professional roofer or designer can weigh in on underlayment, warranty, and material choice.
Material Matters Too
Material really makes a difference, right? It’s not just about the color; it’s how that color behaves over time.
For example, while dark asphalt might look almost black from one angle, a steel roof could reflect more light, making the same shade appear lighter.
This is why considering the material finish is just as important as the color choice. And speaking of materials, if you’re also thinking about roof colors for different house styles, check out our guide on roof colors for brown houses. It could give you some inspiration!.
Visual Combinations You’ll Love
Credit: todayshomeowner.com
Here are a few visuals in your mind engine:
- Red brick + charcoal roof + white trim = crisp classic.
- Red brick + moss green roof + wooden accent door = warm cottage vibes.
- Red brick + warm brown roof + black window frames = rich traditional.
- Red brick + light tan roof + grey shutters = coastal/relaxed feel.
You can mix and match. Don’t be afraid to play. The key is that your roof color for a red brick house should feel in harmony with the brick, not fight it.
Quick Checklist Before You Finalize
- Brick undertone identified
- Accent colors noted
- 2‑3 shingle color samples, real‑world tested
- Viewed in morning + evening light
- Material finish compared
- Thought about maintenance and long‑term look
- Installation and warranty lined up
Wrapping It Up
I think we have discussed which roof color for a red brick house is ideal for your space. Weigh the pros and cons, pull out some samples, and there you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here, have a look at some of the most common questions.
Can I match my front door color to the roof?
Sure, you can, but think twice. Roof color that picks up the exact door shade might feel too gimmicky. Better to let the door be a little accent.
Will a lighter roof make my house look bigger?
Yes, lighter colors tend to make a home feel more expansive. Dark roofs can feel intimate and grounded. Choose based on mood.
What happens if my red brick has multiple tones?
Then pick a roof color that complements the dominant tone. If the brick has warm + cool flashes, lean toward a neutral roof that bridges both.
How will the roof color look in different lights?
Great question, very different. Sun, overcast, dusk: colors shift. That’s why sampling in real light matters.
Is dark always better than light for roofs on red brick homes?
Not always. Dark gives contrast, but light gives airiness. It depends on your home’s style, trim, and what feel you’re going for.
