Choosing the best roof colour for a red brick house is one of the easiest ways to improve curb appeal. A roof covers a large part of your home, so its color can change the whole look of the exterior. The right choice can make your house feel classic, warm, modern, or bold.
| Roof Color | Best For / Style | Effect on Red Brick House |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal / Black | Traditional & modern homes | Creates strong contrast; classic, bold, timeless look |
| Dark Gray / Slate | Most architectural styles | Modern yet softer than black; complements most styles |
| Brown / Weathered Wood | Rustic or traditional homes | Warm tones that harmonize with rustic red brick |
| Dark Green (Forest/Emerald) | Homes with foliage or earth-tone trim | Bold complementary color; makes brick stand out |
| Dark Blue | Modern homes wanting uniqueness | Adds interest while still complementing red brick |
Red brick already has a strong personality. It brings a timeless style that many homeowners love. But not every roof color works well with it. The key is to match the roof with the undertones in the brick, along with your trim, shutters, and even the climate where you live.
Why Roof Color Matters for a Red Brick House
The Impact on Curb Appeal
Roof color affects first impressions more than many people realize. A good match makes the home feel balanced and polished. A poor match can make even a beautiful brick house look off.
If you ever plan to sell, this matters even more. Buyers often notice the roof before they notice the details. A roof that suits the brick can support home value and make the exterior feel well cared for.
Understanding Brick Undertones
Not all red brick looks the same. Some bricks lean warm with orange tones. Others look deeper, darker, or even slightly burgundy.
That is why matching roof and brick is so important. The roof should either blend with the brick or give it a clean contrast. When the undertones work together, the whole home looks more intentional.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Roof color also affects heat. Darker roofs absorb more sunlight, while lighter roofs reflect more of it. In hot climates, that can matter a lot. In cooler areas, a dark roof may feel like a natural fit.
So, the best roof colour for a brick house depends on both the style and the weather.
Best Color Roof for Red Brick House: Top Expert Picks
Black Roofs
A black roof with red brick house is a classic choice. It gives strong contrast and a clean, elegant look. This pairing works especially well for Colonial, modern farmhouse, and traditional homes.
Black roofs feel bold and timeless. They also help the brick stand out. The only drawback is that black absorbs more heat, so it may not be ideal in very warm places.
Charcoal Gray Roofs
Charcoal is one of the safest and most popular options. It is softer than black but still gives the home a strong, polished look. A charcoal roof red brick house pairing works with many brick shades.
This color also looks great with white trim, black shutters, and stone accents. If you want something flexible and easy to live with, charcoal is a smart pick.
Brown Roofs
Brown roofs create a warm and natural feel. They blend well with earthy red brick, making the exterior feel cozy and welcoming. This is a great option if you want the roof to support the brick instead of compete with it.
Brown roofing works well with asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, and composite materials. It is especially good for ranch homes and traditional designs.
Dark Gray Roofs
Dark grey is another strong roof colour choice for red brick homes. It feels modern but not too trendy. This color works for both new homes and older styles.
You can pair dark grey with beige trim, cream accents, or matte-black fixtures. It gives the home a balanced, clean look without being too dark.
Weathered Wood Roof Colors
Weathered wood shingles are popular because they mix brown, gray, and black tones. That mix gives depth and helps the roof work with different brick shades.
This is a useful option if your brick has multiple tones or if you want a roof that hides dirt well. Many designers like it because it feels natural and versatile.
Green Roofs
Green roofs are less common, but they can look beautiful on the right home. Deep forest green pairs nicely with red brick and gives a rich, historic feel.
This color works best on Tudor homes, cottage-style houses, and older homes with character. It is a bold choice, but when done well, it looks unique and tasteful.
Roof Colors to Avoid with Red Brick Houses
Some roof colours clash with red brick rather than complement it.
- Bright blue often clashes with warm brick tones.
- Pure white can look too harsh and dated.
- Bright red may feel overwhelming because it creates too much of the same color.
- Very light grey can wash out the brick’s richness.
Pro tip: Always view roof samples outside in natural daylight before making a final choice. Colours can look very different on a small sample than on a full roof.
How to Choose the Best Roof Color for Your Brick Shade
Light Red Brick Homes
If your brick is light red, try medium gray, brown, or weathered wood. These colors add balance without making the home feel too heavy.
Dark Red Brick Homes
Dark red brick usually looks best with black, charcoal, or dark brown roofs. These colours create a rich, strong finish.
Orange-Toned Brick Homes
If your brick has orange tones, warm colors work best. Try warm brown or other earth-tone shingles to keep the exterior soft and natural.
Burgundy Brick Homes
Burgundy brick pairs well with deep charcoal or slate gray. These cooler colours help tone down the brick’s richness.
Matching Roof Colors with Architectural Style
Traditional Colonial Homes
Black roofs and slate-inspired shingles are a great fit. They give the home a formal and classic look.
Modern Farmhouse Brick Homes
Matte-black roofing or dark-grey metal roofs work well here. These choices feel simple, clean, and current.
Ranch-Style Brick Houses
Brown or weathered wood shingles suit ranch homes nicely. They create a relaxed and grounded look.
Tudor and Cottage Homes
Forest green and textured roofs match these styles beautifully. They add charm and character.
Best Roofing Materials for Red Brick Houses
Roofing MaterialBest ColorsStyle Match
Asphalt Shingles Black, gray, brown Flexible and affordable
Metal Roofing Dark gray, black, charcoal Modern and energy-friendly
Slate Roofs Charcoal, slate gray High-end and timeless
Cedar Shake Roofs Brown, weathered wood Warm and rustic
Asphalt shingles are the most common because they are affordable and come in many colors. Metal roofing is a good choice if you want a modern look. Slate gives a premium finish, while cedar shake adds warmth and texture.
Exterior Design Tips to Complete the Look
Choose the Right Trim Color
White trim gives a clean contrast. Cream trim feels softer and warmer. Black trim can make the home look sharp and modern.
Match Gutters and Fascia Carefully
You can either match them to the roof or use a contrasting finish. Matching creates a smooth look, while contrast adds definition.
Think About Landscaping
Green shrubs, simple flower beds, and neat walkways all help red brick look its best. Driveway and walkway colors also matter because they frame the home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Lighting
Roof color changes in sunlight, shade, and cloudy weather. What looks good on a small sample may look very different on the house.
Picking Trends Over Style
A trendy colour may look exciting now, but your roof should also work with the home for years to come.
Forgetting HOA Rules
Some neighborhoods have rules about roof color. Always check before you buy.
Not Seeing Large Samples
Small samples can be misleading. Bigger samples give you a much better idea of the final result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular roof color for red brick houses?
Charcoal grey and black are among the most popular choices because they look clean and pair well with many brick shades.
Is a black roof too dark for red brick?
Not usually. A black roof can look beautiful with red brick, especially if the brick is medium- or dark-red.
Should gutters match the roof or trim?
Either can work. Matching the roof creates a seamless look, while matching the trim gives a brighter finish.
Does roof color affect home value?
Yes. A roof colour that complements the house can enhance curb appeal and make the home more appealing to buyers.
What roof color makes a brick house look modern?
Black, dark gray, and matte charcoal often give red brick a more modern look.
Can metal roofs work on red brick homes?
Yes. Metal roofs can look excellent with red brick, especially in dark gray or charcoal tones.
