Best Roofing Materials
for Myrtle Beach, SC
Not all roofing materials can handle coastal hurricanes, salt air, and intense humidity. Here's what actually works in Myrtle Beach.
Unique Challenges of Coastal Roofing
Myrtle Beach roofs face extreme conditions that destroy standard materials
Hurricane-Force Winds
Winds up to 150+ mph can tear off shingles, lift metal panels, and damage underlayment
Salt Air Corrosion
Ocean salt accelerates deterioration of fasteners, metal components, and certain materials
High Humidity & Heat
Year-round moisture promotes algae, mold, and accelerates shingle granule loss
UV Exposure
Intense coastal sun breaks down roofing materials faster than inland climates
Heavy Rainfall
High annual rainfall (54+ inches) tests waterproofing and drainage systems
Hail Events
Severe thunderstorms can produce hail that dents or cracks roofing materials
Why Standard Roofing Fails in Myrtle Beach
Materials and installation techniques designed for inland climates won't last on the coast. Hurricane winds, salt corrosion, and extreme humidity require specialized materials and expert installation. A "cheap" roof replacement will cost you more in the long run when it fails prematurely.
Roofing Materials: Coastal Performance Analysis
Expert evaluation of each material's performance in Myrtle Beach's coastal climate
Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles
✓ Advantages
- +Class 4 impact resistance (highest rating)
- +Lower cost than alternatives
- +Insurance discounts available
- +Proven hurricane performance
- +Wide color selection
- +Easier to repair if damaged
− Disadvantages
- −Shorter lifespan than metal or tile
- −Requires algae-resistant treatment for coastal humidity
- −Can lift in extreme winds without proper installation
- −Granule loss over time from UV
💡 Our Recommendation
Choose architectural shingles rated Class 4 impact with algae resistance. Look for high wind ratings (130+ mph). Excellent value for coastal homes.
Metal Roofing (Standing Seam)
✓ Advantages
- +Exceptional wind resistance (concealed fasteners)
- +Salt-resistant coatings available (Kynar 500)
- +Longest lifespan of any roofing material
- +Fire resistant (Class A)
- +Energy efficient (reflects heat)
- +Low maintenance requirements
− Disadvantages
- −Higher upfront cost
- −Requires specialized installation
- −Can dent from large hail
- −Noise during heavy rain (minor with proper insulation)
💡 Our Recommendation
Best overall choice for Myrtle Beach. Use marine-grade fasteners and Kynar 500 coating for salt air. Worth the investment for beachfront properties.
Concrete & Clay Tile
✓ Advantages
- +Extremely durable in salt environment
- +Unaffected by humidity or UV
- +Fire resistant (Class A)
- +Energy efficient (thermal mass)
- +Beautiful Mediterranean aesthetic
- +Lowest long-term maintenance
− Disadvantages
- −Heaviest roofing material (requires structural support)
- −Highest installation cost
- −Individual tiles can crack from hail impact
- −Requires experienced installer
💡 Our Recommendation
Premium option for coastal homes with proper structural support. Concrete tile performs better than clay in hurricanes. Ensure hurricane clips are used.
Synthetic (Composite) Roofing
✓ Advantages
- +Lighter than natural materials
- +Salt and moisture resistant
- +Class 4 impact rating
- +Mimics slate or shake appearance
- +Easier installation than tile
- +Won't crack or break like natural materials
− Disadvantages
- −Limited track record (newer material)
- −Higher cost than asphalt
- −Color fading over time
- −Not all brands perform equally
💡 Our Recommendation
Good middle ground between asphalt and tile. Choose reputable brands like DaVinci or CertainTeed. Verify hurricane testing data.
Modified Bitumen (Flat/Low-Slope)
✓ Advantages
- +Proven performance for flat roofs
- +Multiple layers provide redundancy
- +Good waterproofing
- +Reflective coatings available
- +Easier to repair than some alternatives
− Disadvantages
- −Shorter lifespan than pitched roof materials
- −Standing water can reduce lifespan
- −Requires professional installation
- −Vulnerable to ponding in heavy rain
💡 Our Recommendation
For flat commercial roofs, use torch-down or self-adhering systems. Ensure proper drainage design. Consider white TPO for energy savings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare key factors for Myrtle Beach roofing
| Factor | Asphalt | Metal | Tile | Synthetic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Resistance | Very Good (Class 4) | Excellent | Excellent* | Very Good |
| Salt Air Durability | Good | Excellent** | Excellent | Excellent |
| Lifespan (Coastal) | 25-30 years | 40-70 years | 50-100 years | 30-50 years |
| Installation Cost | Lowest | High | Highest | Medium-High |
| Insurance Discounts | Yes (Class 4) | Yes | Yes | Yes (Class 4) |
| Energy Efficiency | Fair | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Repair Difficulty | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Weight | Light | Light | Very Heavy | Light-Medium |
* Tile requires proper hurricane clips and structural support
** Metal requires marine-grade Kynar 500 coating for salt resistance
Critical Installation Details for Coastal Roofs
Material selection is only half the battle—installation must be done right
Use Hurricane-Rated Fasteners
Stainless steel or galvanized fasteners resist salt corrosion. Use 6 nails per shingle (not 4) in high-wind zones.
Install Quality Underlayment
Use synthetic underlayment rated for high winds. Consider peel-and-stick in valleys and along eaves for extra water protection.
Seal All Penetrations
Proper flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights is critical. Use marine-grade sealants that won't break down in salt air.
Upgrade Edge Details
Drip edge, starter strips, and eave protection prevent wind-driven rain. Metal drip edge should be stainless steel or coated.
Consider Impact-Resistant Ridge Cap
Ridge caps are vulnerable to wind lift. Use high-profile ridge caps with extra fasteners.
Proper Ventilation Design
Coastal humidity requires excellent attic ventilation. Use wind-resistant vents designed for coastal areas.
Warning: DIY Roofing in Coastal Areas
Improper installation voids warranties and fails during hurricanes. Coastal roofing requires specialized knowledge of wind uplift, salt air corrosion, and building codes. Always hire certified professionals with coastal experience and proper insurance.
What's Best for Your Situation?
Our recommendations based on your specific needs
Beachfront Property (Within 1 Mile of Ocean)
Why: Maximum salt resistance and hurricane protection. Worth the investment for direct coastal exposure.
Inland Myrtle Beach Home (1-5 Miles from Ocean)
Why: Good balance of protection and value. Still faces hurricanes but less salt exposure.
Historic or Mediterranean Style Home
Why: Matches architectural style while providing excellent coastal performance.
Budget-Conscious Homeowner
Why: Best value with good hurricane protection. Qualifies for insurance discounts.
Long-Term Investment Property
Why: Lowest lifetime cost despite higher upfront. Minimal maintenance over decades.
Commercial Flat Roof
Why: Proven performance for low-slope commercial applications in coastal climates.
Roofing Material FAQs
Common questions about coastal roofing materials
Do I need a special building permit for roofing in Myrtle Beach?▼
Will hurricane-rated roofing lower my insurance premium?▼
How often should I replace my roof in Myrtle Beach?▼
Is metal roofing noisy during rainstorms?▼
Can any roofer install hurricane-rated materials?▼
Should I replace my roof before hurricane season?▼
Ready to Choose the Right Material for Your Home?
Let our coastal roofing experts assess your home and recommend the best materials for your budget, architecture, and hurricane protection needs.
15+ Years Coastal Experience • Certified Installation • Myrtle Beach, SC