There’s something timeless about a red brick house warm, sturdy, and full of character. Whether it’s a charming Craftsman bungalow in East Troy or a classic colonial in Lake Geneva, the right roof color can elevate your home’s curb appeal, boost its value, and make it blend seamlessly with Wisconsin’s picturesque landscapes. But with so many shingle shades available, how do you pick the one that complements your red brick without overwhelming it? Get it wrong, and your dream home might look dated; get it right, and it’ll turn heads for years.
At Shingle Tech LLC, we’ve installed thousands of roofs on brick homes across southeastern Wisconsin, from Burlington to Waterford. As a family-owned business with over a decade of experience, we know the local nuances—like how our harsh winters demand durable, weather-resistant choices. Today, we’re breaking down our top tips for selecting the ideal roof color for your red brick beauty. Let’s make your home shine!
1. Assess Your Home’s Architectural Style
Your roof color should harmonize with your house’s design era and vibe. Traditional red brick homes, like Tudors or Victorians, often pair beautifully with earthy tones that echo the brick’s warmth. For modern or ranch-style homes, cooler neutrals can add a sleek contrast.
- Classic or Colonial Styles: Opt for deep, rich shades like charcoal gray or hunter green to ground the bold red brick.
- Contemporary Twists: Lighter grays or even a subtle blue-gray can modernize the look without clashing.
Pro tip: Snap photos of nearby homes with similar architecture and note what works—it’s a free style guide!
2. Check Your Neighborhood and HOA Rules
You don’t want your roof sticking out like a sore thumb (or worse, facing fines). Drive around Eagle or your local community to see dominant color palettes red brick houses in Wisconsin suburbs often lean toward cohesive neutrals.
If you’re in an HOA, review their guidelines early. Many restrict bold hues, favoring timeless options like black or dark brown. This step ensures your choice enhances the block’s charm, not disrupts it.
3. Factor in Wisconsin’s Climate and Energy Efficiency
Our state’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow, and summer humidity mean your roof isn’t just aesthetic it’s functional. Darker colors absorb heat, helping melt snow faster and reducing ice dams, a common issue here. Lighter shades reflect sunlight for cooler interiors in summer, potentially lowering energy bills.
- Snowy Winters: Go dark (black or slate) for better performance.
- Energy Savings: Look for Energy Star-rated shingles in cool tones to qualify for rebates.
At Shingle Tech, we always recommend materials built for Wisconsin weather, like impact-resistant architectural shingles.
4. Coordinate with Siding, Trim, and Landscaping
Red brick is versatile, but harmony is key. If your siding is beige or white, a medium brown roof adds warmth. Black trim? Pair it with a crisp charcoal roof for high contrast.
Consider your yard too that has evergreens and stone paths pop against greens and grays. Test how the color plays with natural light; mornings and evenings can shift tones dramatically.
5. Explore Top Roof Color Options for Red Brick
Based on what we’ve seen (and installed) thrive on local brick homes, here are foolproof picks:
| Color Shade | Why It Works | Best For |
| Charcoal Gray | Provides subtle contrast, making red brick pop without overpowering. Versatile and modern. | All styles; pairs with most trims. |
| Black | Bold and timeless—creates a striking frame that highlights brick texture. Excellent for snow melt. | Traditional homes with white or black accents. |
| Dark Brown | Warms up the red tones for a cozy, earthy feel. Blends with wooded lots. | Ranch or Craftsman styles in rural areas. |
| Slate Gray | Cooler and sophisticated; tones down vibrant brick for a calmer aesthetic. | Contemporary updates or urban settings. |
| Hunter Green | Adds a touch of nature-inspired elegance, especially with green landscaping. | Colonial or Tudor homes. |
These neutrals are safe bets, but if you’re adventurous, a weathered copper could add rustic flair though it’s pricier.
6. Test, Visualize, and Consult Pros
Don’t guess grab shingle samples and hold them up against your brick at different times of day. Many manufacturers, like Owens Corning and GAF, offer online visualizers to “try on” colors digitally.
For the best results, bring in experts. A quick consultation can save you from regrets and ensure proper installation.
Elevate Your Red Brick Home with Shingle Tech LLC
Choosing the right roof color is about more than looks it’s an investment in beauty, durability, and comfort. At Shingle Tech LLC, we specialize in custom roof solutions for Wisconsin’s red brick gems, using premium, certified materials that stand up to our climate. Our 5-star Google-rated team handles everything from color consultations to full installs, all with transparent pricing and ironclad warranties.
Ready to transform your home? Schedule a free color consultation today and let’s find the perfect match for your red brick masterpiece.
Shingle Tech LLC – Crafting Curb Appeal, One Shingle at a Time. Proudly serving Eagle, East Troy, Waterford, Burlington, Lake Geneva, and beyond.
