MRA Expects Bold Colors To Be In With Homeowners This Year

Photo courtesy of American Metal Roofs of Michigan.

Portland, OR – Call it provocative, vivacious or bold: For homeowners, 2018 color trends are all about standing out from the crowd.

With more color options available than any other roofing type, metal roofing color trends set the tone for the latest in homeowner style preferences. And this year, it’s no time to be subtle.

According to the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), predictions for the most popular shades this year include bright reds, brilliant whites and moody deep blues. Multi-tones and raw organic hues such as copper, titanium and bright stainless steel also are attracting homeowners for their one-of-a-kind appeal.

With Ultra Violet being Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2018, dramatic color influences are all the rage for homeowners. Although MRA does not predict many homeowners will choose to install purple roofs, intriguing tones and bold color options including Cardinal Red, Deep Sea Blue and Copper Penny are captivating imaginations.

“In years past, the tendency has been towards earth tones and subtle colors that blend in. This year, homeowners are seeking out bolder shades that draw attention and make their home distinctive,” said Renee Ramey, executive director of the MRA. “People are getting creative and they are finding that the latest shades of metal roofing options allow them to do just that.”

Whatever the latest trends, experts remind homeowners to take extra care when it comes to selecting a roofing color that may be beautifully unique, but that they could tire of after a few years. As the longest-lasting roofing material on the market, the fact is that homeowners will be living with their metal roofing color choice for 50-plus years.

“While there’s plenty of beautiful, new colors out there, many homeowners find that traditional colors that stand the test of time are more prudent, especially if they plan to stay in their house for the long run,” said Ramey. “It’s also very important to pay attention to performance factors and what might work best with a home’s overall style and design.”

To help homeowners make the right choice from the dizzying array of colors available, MRA offers 5 key tips:

1) View it in all lights

Recognize that colors will look different on cloudy days versus bright sunshine, in the morning and as the evening turns dark.

2) Make sure pretty is practical

A white metal roof is considered a “cool roof” and can be 50 to 60 degrees cooler than a dark color asphalt shingle roof. Choose a lighter shade if you live in a sunny, hot climate region for maximum energy efficiency.

3) Consider your surroundings

Paint colors tend to change, but metal roofs will last for more than a half century. The best bet is to ensure the color you choose fits with the style of your home and neighborhood.

4) Stand up to the test of time

Homeowners who want to ensure their roof’s color stays the same tomorrow as it is today should select material with high quality paint finishes, such as PVDF coatings. For those who prefer natural variances, some bare metals like copper will patina and naturally change color over time. 

5) Try it on

The MRA offers a free  online visualizer on its website where homeowners can upload a photo and see how their home might look with different types of roofing color and style options—a good way to try before buying.

About The Metal Roofing Alliance

Representing metal roofing manufacturers in the United States and Canada, the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) was formed in 1998 as a nonprofit organization to help educate consumers about the many benefits of metal roofs. The main objective of MRA is to increase awareness of the beauty, durability and money-saving advantages of quality metal roofs among homeowners, as well as to provide support for metal roofing businesses and contractors. For more information, visit metalroofing.com.