Best Metal Roof Colors to Pair With Red Brick

Choosing a metal roof color to complement red brick involves balancing hue, contrast, and architectural style. This article outlines practical color choices, trim options, finishes, and decision-making tips to help homeowners and contractors select a roof that enhances curb appeal and long-term value. Key factors include brick tone, roof finish, home style, and climate.

Brick Tone	Recommended Roof Colors	Design Effect
Bright Red/Orange	Charcoal, Dark Brown, Black	High Contrast, Classic
Deep Burgundy	Dark Gray, Bronze, Green	Warm, Rich
Muted/Weathered	Earth Tones, Olive, Copper	Harmonious, Natural
Mixed/Multicolor Brick	Neutral Grays, Black, Dark Brown	Unifying, Modern

Factors To Consider When Matching Roof Color To Red Brick

Before selecting a color, evaluate the brick’s dominant undertone—warm (orange/red), cool (burgundy/puce), or neutral—and the mortar shade. Also consider the home’s architectural style, surrounding landscape, and local climate. Matching undertones creates visual cohesion, while contrast emphasizes architectural features.

Top Metal Roof Colors For Red Brick

This section highlights widely recommended metal roof colors that reliably complement various red brick tones. Each option balances aesthetics, practicality, and resale appeal.

Charcoal Or Dark Gray

Charcoal is one of the most versatile choices for red brick, offering a modern yet timeless contrast. It pairs well with both bright and deep red bricks and minimizes visual busyness. Charcoal creates a sophisticated, low-maintenance look.

Black

Black offers the strongest contrast and can anchor a home visually, making brick colors appear richer. It’s particularly effective on Georgian, Colonial, and contemporary designs. Consider heat absorption in warm climates. Black emphasizes crisp lines and modern silhouettes.

Dark Brown Or Espresso

Dark brown blends naturally with warm red bricks, producing a softer contrast than black. It suits traditional and rustic homes and hides dirt well. This choice complements wooden trim and natural stone accents. Dark brown maintains warmth while grounding the façade.

Bronze And Copper Tones

Bronze and copper finishes add warmth and a subtle metallic sheen that harmonizes with red brick’s warmth. Over time, copper develops a patina that can enrich the overall palette. These metals perform well on craftsman and historic homes. Bronze and copper create a rich, upscale appearance.

Green (Olive Or Dark Green)

Deep green roofs offer an unexpected but pleasing complement to red brick, especially in wooded or rural settings. Olive tones blend with landscaping, while darker greens provide stately contrast for traditional architecture. Green connects the home visually to its natural surroundings.

Greys With Warm Undertones

Warm grays—those with brown or taupe undertones—pair well with red brick without the starkness of pure cool gray. They provide a modern, neutral backdrop that allows brick texture and color to stand out. Warm grays offer a balanced, contemporary option.

Accent And Trim Color Strategies

Trim and accent colors greatly influence how a roof color reads with red brick. White trim produces crisp contrast; cream or beige softens the overall palette. Metal gutters, fascia, and flashing should be coordinated with the roof to create a cohesive look. Consistent trim and accents unify the roof and brick visually.

Finish And Material Considerations

Metal roofs come in matte, satin, and glossy finishes. Matte and satin finishes reduce glare and look more traditional; high-gloss finishes are modern and reflect light, which can affect perceived color. Additionally, textured or stone-coated metal panels add depth. Finish influences both aesthetics and thermal performance.

Climate, Energy, And Practical Factors

Dark roofs absorb more heat, raising attic temperatures and cooling costs in hot climates; reflective coatings and cool-roof pigments mitigate this. Snow-shedding needs and wind exposure also influence panel profiles and attachment methods. Choose color and coatings that balance appearance with climate performance.

Visual Examples And Design Scenarios

Visualizing combinations helps decision-making. For a colonial brick home, pair black or charcoal with white trim for classic curb appeal. For craftsman or ranch homes, consider bronze or dark brown with natural wood accents. For modern homes, warm gray or charcoal with metal trim creates a sleek silhouette. Design scenarios guide practical choices aligned with architectural style.

Practical Selection Tips And Sample Workflow

Start by taking large, well-lit photos of the home and surrounding environment. Obtain full-size metal color samples and view them at multiple times of day. Test trim and flashing mockups, and consider using virtual design tools or consulting a color specialist. Sample testing in real light is essential to avoid surprises.

Budget, Lifespan, And Maintenance Considerations

Painted metal panels vary by finish and warranty; premium Kynar or PVDF coatings last longer and resist fading. Certain colors may show dirt or fading more quickly—darker hues often require higher-quality coatings. Factor in labor and potential reroofing costs when choosing. Investing in quality coatings extends color life and reduces long-term costs.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Common errors include relying solely on small color chips, ignoring mortar color, and neglecting the home’s landscaping when choosing a roof color. Also avoid matching the roof to a transient feature like a painted front door without considering longevity. Avoid decisions based only on small samples or single viewpoints.

Working With Professionals And Tools

Architects, roofers, and color consultants can provide scaled renderings and physical mockups. Manufacturers often offer fan decks and sample panels. Online visualization tools can show roof colors on photos of the actual house but should be confirmed with samples. Professional input and manufacturer samples minimize risk.

Resources And Further Reading

Consult product pages from major metal roof manufacturers for color palettes and warranty details. Local building codes and HOA rules may restrict colors or finishes. Energy-efficiency programs sometimes offer incentives for reflective coatings. Check manufacturer specifications, local regulations, and energy incentives.

Actionable Checklist For Choosing A Metal Roof Color

• Identify the brick’s dominant undertone and mortar color.
• Gather full-size metal samples in desired colors and finishes.
• View samples on the house at different times of day.
• Coordinate trim, gutters, and accents with the chosen roof color.
• Confirm warranties, reflective coatings, and local code requirements.

Following these steps helps ensure the selected metal roof color complements the red brick and performs well over time. Prioritizing undertones, finishes, and real-world testing leads to the most successful outcome.