Landmark Moire Black Vs Charcoal Black: A Detailed Comparison
Choosing the right roofing shingle color is a decision that can affect the look, value, and even energy efficiency of your home. For homeowners considering the popular Landmark series by CertainTeed, two shades often stand out: Moire Black and Charcoal Black. These colors are favorites because they offer a timeless, sophisticated appearance that suits many architectural styles. But while both are “black” shingles, they are not the same. Their differences can be subtle in some light and dramatic in others. This article explores every aspect you need to know to confidently choose between Landmark Moire Black and Charcoal Black.
What Sets Moire Black And Charcoal Black Apart?
At first glance, both shingle colors appear similar—deep, classic, and refined. But a closer look reveals important contrasts.
- Moire Black is a softer black, with fine gray undertones. It gives a smooth, slightly muted look. This shade is often described as “graphite-like,” with a clean, uniform appearance.
- Charcoal Black is a deeper, richer black with bolder contrasts. It includes flecks of dark gray, giving it a dimensional, shadowed effect. Charcoal Black tends to look more dramatic, especially in bright sunlight.
Both colors are available in the CertainTeed Landmark series, known for quality and durability.
Visual Impact: How Do They Look On A Home?
The way your roof looks depends on several factors, including home style, siding color, and even the angle of sunlight.
Moire Black
- Subtle and soft: Moire Black is ideal if you want a black roof that doesn’t overpower the rest of your home.
- Works well with lighter exteriors: Cream, tan, pale gray, or light brick pair beautifully.
- Less stark contrast: The gray undertones soften the transition between roof and walls.
Charcoal Black
- Bolder appearance: Charcoal Black is for those who want their roof to stand out.
- Enhanced depth: The variation in granule colors adds shadow effects, giving the roof more dimension.
- Pairs with strong colors: Darker siding, stone accents, or modern designs look stunning with Charcoal Black.
Real-life Example
A colonial house with white siding and black shutters often looks more traditional with Moire Black, while a modern home with dark blue or deep green siding can look striking with Charcoal Black.
Credit: www.restorationroofingco.com
Color Comparison: Side-by-side
To highlight the visual differences, here’s a direct comparison:
| Feature | Moire Black | Charcoal Black |
|---|---|---|
| Base Tone | Soft black, gray undertones | Rich black, deep gray flecks |
| Visual Texture | Uniform, smooth | Dimensional, variegated |
| Best For | Classic, subtle styles | Modern, high-contrast looks |
| Sunlight Reflection | Less intense, blends in | Can appear brighter, more pronounced |
Durability And Performance
Both Moire Black and Charcoal Black are part of the CertainTeed Landmark series, which means they share the same build quality. You can expect:
- Fiberglass construction: Strong against wind and weather.
- Algae resistance: Protects color and roof integrity.
- Class A fire rating: The highest available for residential roofing.
In short, you are not choosing between different levels of protection—just the color.
Heat Absorption And Energy Concerns
Many homeowners worry that a black roof will make their home hotter. It’s true that dark colors absorb more heat, but the difference between Moire Black and Charcoal Black is minimal in terms of actual temperature.
- Both absorb heat: Expect a slightly warmer attic compared to lighter shingles.
- Ventilation matters more: Good attic ventilation and insulation can offset heat build-up.
- Reflectivity is similar: Neither is considered a “cool roof” color.
A non-obvious insight: The visual difference in shade rarely translates to a significant change in energy bills. Focus on attic insulation and ventilation for better energy efficiency.
Compatibility With Home Styles
Choosing the right shingle color is not just about personal taste—it’s also about architectural harmony.
| Home Style | Moire Black | Charcoal Black |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Colonial | Excellent | Good |
| Modern/Contemporary | Good | Excellent |
| Craftsman | Very Good | Very Good |
| Brick Ranch | Excellent | Good |
| Cape Cod | Excellent | Good |
| Stucco | Good | Excellent |
Resale Value And Market Perception
Home buyers often prefer neutral roof colors because they are less likely to clash with siding or trim. Black is a safe choice, but subtle differences can influence curb appeal.
- Moire Black is seen as more “classic” and versatile.
- Charcoal Black can make a home look newer, especially in neighborhoods with many tan or brown roofs.
A real estate study found that homes with black or dark gray roofs sold for about 2% higher than homes with green or red roofs, all else equal. This suggests that either color will help your home’s resale value, but it’s important to match the overall style.
Maintenance And Longevity
The maintenance needs are essentially identical for both colors:
- Algae resistance: Both resist staining, but black shingles can still show streaks over time, especially in humid areas.
- Granule loss: Wear is similar, but darker shingles hide granule loss better.
- Cleaning: Occasional cleaning with a gentle roof cleaner extends lifespan.
A non-obvious tip: If your home is surrounded by trees, Charcoal Black can hide fallen debris and stains better due to its more varied pattern.
Warranty And Cost
Landmark shingles come with strong warranties, usually limited lifetime for residential use.
- Warranty coverage: Equal for both Moire Black and Charcoal Black.
- Cost: Prices are nearly identical, though local supply can affect availability.
In most markets, expect to pay between $110 and $135 per roofing square (100 sq. Ft. ), installed.
Popular Alternatives
If neither color feels perfect, CertainTeed offers other shades worth considering:
- Weathered Wood: A brown-gray mix for more warmth
- Pewter: A lighter gray for less heat absorption
- Georgetown Gray: For a modern, clean look
But for those set on black, Moire Black and Charcoal Black remain the top choices.
Credit: www.youtube.com
How To Choose: Practical Steps
- Request real samples: Shingle boards look different than online photos.
- View at different times: Sunlight changes the appearance throughout the day.
- Consider neighborhood roofs: Too much contrast can affect curb appeal.
- Ask your installer: Pros often know which color looks best on your home style.
- Check with HOA: Some Homeowners Associations restrict color choices.
A common mistake is relying only on digital images. In reality, granule patterns and sunlight can make a big difference.
Homeowner Experiences
Many homeowners share their experiences on forums and social media. Here are two typical stories:
- Mary (Ohio): “We chose Moire Black because our brick is a light brown and we wanted something classic. It blends in perfectly—no regrets!”
- James (Texas): “Charcoal Black gave our modern ranch a real upgrade. The roof pops, especially against the dark siding. We get compliments all the time.”
These stories show how personal preference and house style play a big role.
Summary Table: Moire Black Vs Charcoal Black
To help with quick decision-making, here’s a summary:
| Aspect | Moire Black | Charcoal Black |
|---|---|---|
| Shade | Softer, gray undertones | Richer, deeper black |
| Texture | Smoother, less variation | More granule contrast |
| Best Paired With | Lighter siding, classic homes | Darker siding, modern homes |
| Resale Value | Excellent | Excellent |
| Heat Absorption | High | High |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There A Big Difference Between Moire Black And Charcoal Black?
The difference is noticeable, especially in direct sunlight. Moire Black looks softer with gray tones, while Charcoal Black is deeper and more dramatic. Choosing between them comes down to whether you want a classic look or something bolder.
Do Both Colors Cost The Same?
Yes, the price for Landmark Moire Black and Charcoal Black is almost always the same. Sometimes local stock might affect price by a few dollars per square, but there is no built-in premium for one over the other.
Will A Black Roof Make My House Hotter?
Both colors absorb more heat than lighter shingles. However, the difference in temperature between Moire Black and Charcoal Black is very small. Proper attic insulation and ventilation are more important for comfort and energy bills.
Which Color Is Better For Resale Value?
Both are excellent choices for resale because black is neutral and widely preferred. If you want broad appeal, Moire Black is slightly safer. Charcoal Black can help your home stand out if the style fits.
Where Can I See Real Photos Of These Shingles?
The CertainTeed website has a project gallery and a color view tool. You can also search for real-world examples on Houzz to see how the shingles look on completed homes.
When choosing between Landmark Moire Black and Charcoal Black, consider your home’s style, the look you prefer, and how the roof fits into your neighborhood. Request real samples, view them in different lighting, and don’t rush your decision. The right shingle color can make your home look beautiful for decades to come.
Credit: todayshomeowner.com