When planning a roofing project, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is selecting the right shingle color. The roof covers a large portion of your house, and the shade you choose has a lasting impact on curb appeal, durability, and even your home’s energy efficiency. In New Jersey neighborhoods like Summit, Morristown, and Short Hills, homeowners often weigh traditional style against bold modern design when picking GAF shingle colors.
GAF offers some of the most trusted roof shingles in the roofing industry, with colors that enhance any architectural style. From sleek Charcoal that creates a striking contrast to warm Barkwood that blends beautifully with brick or cream siding, the right GAF shingle color helps protect your investment while elevating your home’s exterior.
American Home Contractors has guided over 8,000 NJ homeowners in choosing and installing the perfect GAF shingle color with expert installation and strong warranties. With so many choices available, selecting the right shingle color is about more than personal taste; it’s about creating a roof that complements your siding, trim, and neighborhood style.
What Are GAF Shingle Colors?
GAF shingle colors represent the wide palette of shades available across Timberline HDZ, UHDZ, Designer, and three-tab shingle lines. These include timeless neutrals like Weathered Wood and Pewter Gray, as well as bolder shades such as Slate, Oyster Gray, and Patriot Red. Each color is designed to enhance architectural depth, match popular siding colors, and withstand sunlight exposure.
Shingle colors influence more than beauty; they affect how your home performs. Lighter colors can reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs, while darker colors provide warmth and depth that pair beautifully with traditional trim. GAF’s options give homeowners flexibility to find a balance between appearance, durability, and energy efficiency.
Most Popular GAF Shingle Colors
Some colors in the GAF lineup consistently stand out for their beauty, adaptability, and resale value. In NJ, these shingles are especially popular for enhancing colonial, cape, and modern homes.
- Charcoal: A dark, sleek option that creates contrast and pairs beautifully with blue or cream siding.
- Weathered Wood: One of the most popular GAF colors nationwide, it blends warm and cool tones for timeless curb appeal.
- Pewter Gray: A versatile gray that looks clean and modern, perfect for homes with stone or darker siding.
- Barkwood: Rich and earthy, it enhances homes with brick and natural landscaping.
- Mission Brown: A traditional shade that adds warmth and complements cream trim and beige siding.
- Slate: A bold gray with depth that enhances stone exteriors and colonial architecture.
Popular Colors and Exterior Pairings
| Shingle Color | Best Pairings | Style Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal | Blue siding, white trim, stone | Modern, bold contrast |
| Weathered Wood | Red brick, cream siding | Versatile, classic warmth |
| Pewter Gray | Dark siding, black trim | Sleek, contemporary |
| Barkwood | Beige siding, warm trim | Natural, earthy |
| Mission Brown | Colonial homes, cream accents | Traditional, inviting |
| Slate | Stone, gray siding | Striking, upscale depth |
Timberline HDZ vs UHDZ Shingle Colors
When comparing Timberline HDZ and UHDZ shingles, both offer excellent durability and warranties, but the color presentation differs in depth.
- HDZ: Affordable and versatile, available in a wide variety of popular shingle colors.
- UHDZ: Premium upgrade with the Dual Shadow Line, which creates striking dimension and architectural style.
HDZ vs UHDZ Color Comparison
| Feature | Timberline HDZ | Timberline UHDZ |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Single shadow line | Dual Shadow Line for bold depth |
| Color Options | Full GAF palette | Same colors with enhanced contrast |
| Warranties | Excellent protection | Premium coverage |
| Best Fit | Traditional homes | Upscale curb appeal |
For NJ homeowners, HDZ shingles remain a trusted choice, while UHDZ is ideal for those who want a roof that enhances style and creates a lasting impression.
Shingle Colors and Energy Efficiency
Color matters not just for beauty but also for performance. Lighter colors like Oyster Gray and Birchwood reflect sunlight, reducing cooling costs in summer and improving a home’s energy efficiency. Darker colors like Charcoal and Slate absorb heat, which can be beneficial in colder months, but are less efficient for coastal areas with strong sun exposure.
GAF also offers CRRC-rated “cool roof” colors, including Birchwood, White, Copper Canyon, and Golden Amber. These are engineered to keep homes cooler while maintaining durability and style. In mixed climates like New Jersey, where seasons bring both heat and snow, homeowners often choose colors that balance efficiency with long-lasting curb appeal.
How to Choose the Best GAF Shingle Color for Your Home
Choosing the right GAF shingle color is about finding a balance between style, function, and personal preference. A structured approach makes the process easier:
- Match undertones: Warm siding works best with Barkwood or Mission Brown, while cool siding pairs beautifully with Pewter Gray or Charcoal.
- Consider climate: Lighter colors help reflect sunlight and lower heat, while darker colors create depth and warmth.
- Review HOA guidelines: Many NJ neighborhoods require approval for bold or striking shingle colors.
- Preview online: Use the GAF Virtual Remodeler to test different shades on your home.
- Examine samples in sunlight: Shingle samples should be viewed outdoors at different times of day.
- Consult roofing experts: A certified roofing contractor can recommend colors that protect and enhance your home’s exterior.
Why Choose American Home Contractors for GAF Shingle Installation
As a GAF-certified roofing contractor, American Home Contractors brings expertise and local knowledge to every project. NJ homeowners choose AHC for:
- Expert installation with factory-certified crews.
- Comprehensive warranties to protect your investment.
- Personalized guidance in selecting the right shingle color.
- Proven results with 8,000+ satisfied clients across North and Central NJ.
By working with AHC, you’re not just installing a roof; you’re creating long-term value, beauty, and protection for your house.
Conclusion
The right shingle color is more than an aesthetic choice; it’s an investment in curb appeal, energy efficiency, and durability. With GAF shingle colors ranging from timeless neutrals like Weathered Wood to bold, striking shades like Slate, NJ homeowners can find the perfect option to complement their home’s exterior and neighborhood style.
If you’re exploring GAF shingle colors or want to be sure your new roof is installed with expert precision and backed by a strong warranty, American Home Contractors can help. From Morristown to Summit and across North and Central NJ, we’ve been the trusted choice for roofing and exterior upgrades for decades. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how the right shingle color can enhance your home’s curb appeal, protect its value, and deliver lasting performance.
FAQs
What are the colors of GAF shingles?
GAF shingles come in a wide variety of colors, including Charcoal, Weathered Wood, Pewter Gray, Barkwood, Mission Brown, Slate, and Oyster Gray, and shingle samples are available for homeowners to see. These colors are designed to complement siding, trim, and architectural styles while enhancing curb appeal.
What is the most popular GAF color?
Weathered Wood and Charcoal are among the most popular GAF colors nationwide. They’re versatile, timeless, and enhance both traditional and modern NJ homes.
What is the most popular shingle color overall?
Across the roofing industry, neutral shades like gray and brown remain the top choices. These colors are practical, boost resale value, and blend well with a wide range of siding and trim.
Is GAF a good shingle?
Yes. GAF is a leader in asphalt shingles, offering durability, strong warranties, and expert installation support. When installed by certified contractors like American Home Contractors, GAF shingles provide excellent protection, style, and long-term performance.