Is a metal roof cheaper than shingles in the long run?

Yes, over 50 years metal roofing typically costs $30,000-$40,000 less than asphalt shingles. While metal costs 2-3x more upfront ($18,000-$25,000 vs $8,000-$12,000), you only install one metal roof vs 2-3 shingle roofs. Add insurance savings ($150-$500/year), energy savings ($100-$300/year), and lower maintenance costs, and metal roofing delivers significant lifetime savings for homeowners staying 15+ years.

How long does a metal roof last vs shingles?

Metal roofing lasts 40-70 years depending on the material (aluminum and copper last longest). Asphalt shingles last 15-30 years in coastal conditions—significantly less than manufacturer warranties suggest due to salt air, UV exposure, and humidity. In Myrtle Beach, we typically see premium architectural shingles last 20-25 years and metal roofs last 50+ years.

Do metal roofs lower insurance rates?

Yes, metal roofs typically qualify for 10-35% homeowners insurance discounts in hurricane-prone areas like Myrtle Beach. On a $5,000 annual premium, that's $500-$1,750 saved every year. Insurance companies offer these discounts because claims data shows metal roofs experience 60-75% fewer wind damage claims than asphalt shingles.

Is metal roofing worth it in a hurricane zone?

Absolutely. Standing seam metal roofing achieves 140-180 MPH wind ratings vs 110-130 MPH for the best asphalt shingles. More importantly, metal roofs resist uplift better as they age, while shingle adhesive strips weaken over time. After major hurricanes, metal roofs typically need minor repairs ($1,000-$3,000) while shingle roofs often need partial or complete replacement ($8,000-$15,000+).

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

The main disadvantages of metal roofing are: (1) Higher upfront cost (2-3x more than shingles), (2) Fewer qualified installers (mistakes are costly and hard to fix), (3) More expensive repairs when needed, (4) Some HOAs don't allow metal roofing, (5) Can dent from large hail. The noise concern is outdated—with proper underlayment, metal roofs are no louder than shingles during rain.

Is it cheaper to get a metal roof or shingles?

Shingles are cheaper upfront ($5,000-$15,000 vs $12,000-$28,000 for metal), but metal is cheaper long-term. If you're selling within 10 years, shingles make more financial sense. If staying 15+ years, metal's lower lifetime cost (one roof vs 2-3 shingle roofs) plus insurance and energy savings make it the more economical choice.

Can you put a metal roof over shingles?

Yes, in some cases. Installing metal over existing shingles can save $1,000-$3,000 in tear-off costs. However, it's not always recommended: (1) You can only install over one layer of shingles, (2) The underlying deck must be in good condition, (3) Proper ventilation must be maintained, (4) Some warranty coverage may be affected. We recommend a full tear-off for best long-term results.

How much does a metal roof cost per square foot?

Metal roofing costs $5-$15 per square foot installed for most residential options: corrugated/exposed fastener ($5-$8), stone-coated steel ($8-$12), and standing seam ($10-$15). Premium options like copper or zinc run $20-$40+. For a 2,000 sq ft home (about 25 roofing squares), expect $8,000-$14,000 for corrugated, $14,000-$22,000 for stone-coated, or $18,000-$28,000 for standing seam.

What type of metal roof is best for hurricanes?

Standing seam metal roofing is best for hurricanes due to hidden fasteners that can't pull out and interlocking panels that resist uplift. Quality standing seam systems achieve 140-180 MPH wind ratings. Aluminum standing seam is ideal for oceanfront properties (no corrosion), while Galvalume steel standing seam offers the best value for most coastal homes. Avoid exposed-fastener metal in high-wind zones.

Do metal roofs increase home value?

Yes, metal roofing typically adds 4-6% to home value vs 1-3% for new asphalt shingles. In coastal markets like Myrtle Beach, metal roofs are increasingly expected on higher-end properties. Buyers view metal as 'never replacing the roof again' and appreciate the hurricane protection, insurance savings, and lower maintenance—making homes with metal roofs sell faster.

How much does a new roof cost with shingles?

For a typical 2,000 sq ft Myrtle Beach home, expect: Budget 3-tab shingles: $5,000-$8,000. Standard architectural (GAF HDZ, Owens Corning Duration): $8,000-$12,000. Premium architectural: $12,000-$18,000. These prices include tear-off, disposal, underlayment, flashing, and installation. Add $1,000-$3,000 for complications like steep slopes, multiple stories, or deck repairs.

What color metal roof is best for hot climates?

Lighter colors reflect more heat and reduce cooling costs: White reflects 65-80% of solar energy, light gray or tan 50-65%, and medium colors 30-50%. However, 'cool roof' coatings now allow even dark metal colors to achieve high solar reflectance. In Myrtle Beach's hot climate, a light-colored or cool-roof-coated metal roof can reduce cooling costs by 25-40% compared to dark asphalt shingles.

Are metal roofs noisy when it rains?

Not with proper installation. This is an outdated concern from agricultural buildings without insulation. Residential metal roofs installed over solid decking with synthetic underlayment are no louder than shingle roofs during rain. Some homeowners actually enjoy the subtle rain sound. If noise is a concern, we install additional sound-deadening underlayment for complete peace of mind.

How long do asphalt shingles last in South Carolina?

In coastal South Carolina, expect 15-25 years for quality architectural shingles (less than the 30-40 year manufacturer warranties suggest). 3-tab shingles last only 12-18 years. Coastal factors that shorten lifespan include: intense UV exposure, salt air corrosion, high humidity promoting algae growth, and storm damage accumulation. Premium shingles like GAF Timberline HDZ or Owens Corning Duration perform best.

What is the best roofing material for beach houses?

For beachfront properties (within 1 mile of ocean), aluminum standing seam metal roofing is the best choice—it's completely corrosion-proof, rated for 140+ MPH winds, and lasts 50-70 years in salt air. Stone-coated steel is an excellent mid-range option. If metal isn't possible (HOA restrictions), choose premium algae-resistant architectural shingles with enhanced wind ratings like GAF Timberline HDZ.

Do metal roofs attract lightning?

No, metal roofs do not attract lightning. Lightning strikes the highest point in an area regardless of material. In fact, metal roofs are safer if struck because metal is non-combustible—unlike wood shake or asphalt shingles that can catch fire. Metal disperses electrical charge safely across its surface. This is why metal roofing carries Class A fire ratings.

Can you walk on a metal roof?

Yes, but carefully. Metal roofs are walkable for maintenance and inspections, but technique matters. Walk on the flat portions over rafters (not between), wear soft-soled shoes, avoid walking in wet conditions, and don't walk on metal roofs in extreme heat (metal expands and can be slippery). For regular maintenance, we recommend leaving it to professionals who know proper techniques.

What is the ROI on a metal roof?

Metal roofing delivers 60-85% ROI at sale and 150-300%+ ROI if you stay long-term. The breakdown: immediate home value increase of $8,000-$15,000 (vs $18,000-$25,000 cost), plus annual savings of $500-$1,500 in insurance, $100-$300 in energy, and $200-$400 in maintenance. After 15-20 years, the roof has essentially 'paid for itself' in avoided costs while still having 30-40 years of life remaining.

Metal Roof vs Shingles: Complete 2026 Cost & Performance Comparison

Shocking Industry Truth

When investing $8,000-$25,000 in a new roof for your coastal home, the metal roof vs shingles decision can feel overwhelming. Metal roofing promises 50+ years of durability and hurricane resistance. Asphalt shingles offer lower upfront costs and proven performance. Which actually makes more sense for YOUR home?

After installing over 700 roofs in the Myrtle Beach area—split evenly between metal roofing and asphalt shingles—I can tell you: the "right" choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and your specific storm exposure.

This comprehensive metal roof vs shingles comparison covers everything coastal homeowners need to know: actual costs (not manufacturer estimates), lifespan differences, hurricane performance, insurance savings, installation considerations, and ROI calculations. By the end, you'll know exactly which roofing material belongs on your home.

Ready to Protect Your Investment?

Schedule your free roof inspection today. No obligations, just peace of mind.

Call (843) 877-5539 Schedule Online

Metal Roof vs Shingles: Quick Comparison Overview

Before diving into the details, here's a quick snapshot of how metal roofs compare to asphalt shingles across the factors that matter most to homeowners:

Factor	Metal Roofing	Asphalt Shingles	Winner
Upfront Cost	$12,000-$25,000+	$5,000-$15,000	Shingles
Lifespan	40-70 years	15-30 years	Metal
Hurricane Resistance	140-180 MPH	110-130 MPH	Metal
Maintenance	Minimal	Moderate	Metal
Energy Efficiency	Excellent (25-40% savings)	Good (with cool roof colors)	Metal
Insurance Discounts	10-35% discount	0-15% discount	Metal
Installation Time	3-7 days	1-3 days	Shingles
Resale Value Impact	+4-6% home value	+1-3% home value	Metal
Repair Costs	Higher (specialized)	Lower (widespread expertise)	Shingles
Lifetime Cost	$12,000-$25,000 (one roof)	$15,000-$45,000 (2-3 roofs)	Metal

Bottom Line:

Metal roofing wins on long-term value, durability, and storm protection. Asphalt shingles win on upfront cost and repair simplicity. For coastal Myrtle Beach homes, the right choice often depends on how long you plan to live there and your tolerance for hurricane risk.

Metal Roof vs Shingles Cost: Complete Price Breakdown

The cost difference between metal roofing and asphalt shingles represents the biggest factor in most homeowners' decisions. Let's break down real-world pricing for the Myrtle Beach market.

Asphalt Shingle Costs (2026)

Typical Asphalt Shingle Pricing:

•
3-Tab Shingles (Budget): $3.50-$5.50 per square foot installed. Basic protection, 15-20 year lifespan. Rarely recommended for coastal areas due to limited wind resistance.
•
Architectural Shingles (Standard): $5.00-$7.50 per square foot installed. GAF Timberline HDZ or Owens Corning Duration—the coastal standard. 25-30 year lifespan, 130 MPH wind rating.
•
Premium Architectural (Luxury): $7.00-$10.00 per square foot installed. Enhanced dimensional appearance, longer warranties, premium materials. 30+ year lifespan.
•
Impact-Resistant Shingles: $8.00-$12.00 per square foot installed. Class 4 hail rating, enhanced hurricane performance. Premium choice for high-risk coastal zones.

For a typical 2,000 sq ft Myrtle Beach home (approximately 25 roofing squares), expect:

Budget (3-Tab): $5,000-$8,000 total
Standard (Architectural): $8,000-$12,000 total
Premium (Luxury): $12,000-$18,000 total

Metal Roofing Costs (2026)

Typical Metal Roofing Pricing:

•
Corrugated Metal (Budget): $5.00-$8.00 per square foot installed. Basic exposed-fastener system. 30-40 year lifespan. Good for outbuildings, budget-conscious homeowners.
•
Stone-Coated Steel (Mid-Range): $8.00-$12.00 per square foot installed. Looks like shingles or tile, performs like metal. 50+ year lifespan. Popular coastal choice.
•
Standing Seam (Standard): $10.00-$15.00 per square foot installed. Hidden fasteners, superior weather resistance. 50-70 year lifespan. Best coastal performance.
•
Copper/Zinc (Premium): $20.00-$40.00+ per square foot installed. Architectural statement, 100+ year lifespan. Luxury homes only.

For the same 2,000 sq ft home (25 roofing squares):

Corrugated Metal: $8,000-$14,000 total
Stone-Coated Steel: $14,000-$22,000 total
Standing Seam: $18,000-$28,000 total
Premium Copper/Zinc: $40,000-$80,000+ total

Hidden Costs to Consider

Both roofing types carry additional costs beyond base materials:

Asphalt Shingle Add-Ons:

• Tear-off & disposal: $1,000-$3,000
• Underlayment upgrade: $500-$1,500
• Ventilation improvements: $300-$800
• Flashing replacement: $200-$600
• Permits & inspections: $200-$500

Metal Roofing Add-Ons:

• Tear-off & disposal: $1,000-$3,000
• Structural reinforcement (if needed): $1,000-$5,000
• Enhanced underlayment: $800-$2,000
• Custom flashing: $500-$1,500
• Permits & inspections: $200-$500

Contractor Tip:

Always get itemized quotes that break out materials, labor, and additional costs separately. "Package deals" sometimes hide inflated pricing or substandard materials.

Metal Roof vs Shingles Lifetime Cost: The Real Math

Upfront cost tells only part of the story. When comparing metal roof vs shingles cost over 50 years, the numbers shift dramatically in favor of metal roofing.

50-Year Cost Comparison

Let's calculate total costs for a typical Myrtle Beach home over 50 years, assuming you stay in the home long-term:

Cost Category	Metal Roof (50+ years)	Asphalt Shingles (need 2-3)
Initial Installation	$20,000	$10,000
Second Roof (Year 20-25)	$0	$12,000 (inflation adjusted)
Third Roof (Year 40-50)	$0	$15,000 (inflation adjusted)
Maintenance (50 years)	$2,000	$6,000
Repairs (storm damage, etc.)	$1,500	$5,000
Insurance Savings (50 years)	-$7,500 (saved)	$0
Energy Savings (50 years)	-$6,000 (saved)	$0
TOTAL 50-YEAR COST	$10,000	$48,000

The Math is Clear:

Over 50 years, metal roofing costs approximately $38,000 LESS than asphalt shingles when accounting for replacements, maintenance, insurance savings, and energy efficiency. The higher upfront cost pays for itself within 15-20 years.

Break-Even Analysis

When does metal roofing's higher cost "pay off"? Here's the break-even timeline:

Insurance savings alone: Break-even at 10-15 years
Including energy savings: Break-even at 8-12 years
Including avoided replacement: Break-even at 18-22 years
Net positive ROI: Year 20+ returns 150-300% on investment

Important Consideration:

If you plan to sell your home within 10 years, asphalt shingles often make more financial sense. The upfront savings outweigh long-term benefits you won't realize. But if this is your "forever home" or 20+ year residence, metal roofing delivers significantly better ROI.

Hurricane & Wind Performance: Metal Roof vs Shingles

For Myrtle Beach homeowners, hurricane performance isn't optional—it's essential. Here's how metal roofing and asphalt shingles actually perform when storms hit.

Wind Rating Comparison

Metal Roofing Wind Ratings:

• Standing Seam: 140-180 MPH
• Stone-Coated Steel: 120-150 MPH
• Corrugated (Exposed Fastener): 110-140 MPH
• Aluminum/Copper: 130-160 MPH

Standing seam metal roofing can withstand Category 5 hurricane winds when properly installed.

Asphalt Shingle Wind Ratings:

• 3-Tab Shingles: 60-90 MPH
• Standard Architectural: 110-130 MPH
• Premium Architectural: 130-150 MPH
• Impact-Resistant: 130-150 MPH

Best asphalt shingles (GAF Timberline HDZ, Owens Corning Duration) achieve 130 MPH ratings.

Real Hurricane Performance

Wind ratings are tested in laboratory conditions. Real hurricanes bring additional forces that lab tests don't replicate:

Hurricane Damage Patterns We've Seen:

1.
Shingle Uplift: High winds get under shingle tabs, causing them to lift, crack, or blow off completely. Even 130 MPH-rated shingles can fail at wind speeds 10-20 MPH below their rating during prolonged storms.
2.
Debris Impact: Flying debris during hurricanes punches through asphalt shingles more easily than metal. A tree branch that dents metal can completely penetrate shingles.
3.
Water Infiltration: Once any shingles lift or break, rain (often torrential during hurricanes) immediately penetrates the roof deck. Metal's interlocking panels resist this failure mode.
4.
Age Degradation: Shingle adhesive strips weaken over time. A 15-year-old "130 MPH" shingle may only resist 80-100 MPH winds in reality. Metal doesn't suffer this degradation.

Insurance Industry Data

Insurance claims data reveals how each roofing type performs in real storms:

Metal roofs: 60% fewer wind-related claims than asphalt shingles
Standing seam specifically: 75% fewer claims than architectural shingles
Post-hurricane repairs: Metal averages $2,000-$5,000 vs shingles $8,000-$15,000
Total loss claims: Rare for metal roofs; common for aged shingle roofs

Why Insurers Offer Metal Roof Discounts:

Insurance companies have decades of claims data showing metal roofs dramatically outperform shingles in hurricanes. The 10-35% premium discounts for metal roofing directly reflect this reduced risk. This isn't marketing—it's actuarial reality.

Lifespan & Durability: How Long Each Roof Really Lasts

Manufacturer warranties advertise optimistic lifespans. Here's what each roofing material actually delivers in coastal South Carolina conditions.

Asphalt Shingle Lifespan Reality

Expected Lifespan by Shingle Type:

•
3-Tab Shingles: Advertised 20-25 years. Coastal reality: 12-18 years. UV degradation, salt air, and humidity accelerate breakdown significantly.
•
Architectural Shingles: Advertised 30 years. Coastal reality: 18-25 years. Better construction extends life, but coastal conditions still reduce lifespan.
•
Premium Architectural: Advertised 40-50 years. Coastal reality: 25-35 years. Thicker construction and better granules perform well but still degrade.

Factors that shorten shingle lifespan in Myrtle Beach:

UV exposure: South-facing roof slopes receive intense sun, causing granule loss and asphalt breakdown
Salt air: Accelerates corrosion of metal components (flashings, fasteners, drip edge)
Humidity/moisture: Promotes algae growth, moss, and underlying rot
Thermal cycling: Hot days and cool nights cause expansion/contraction stress
Hurricane damage: Even "minor" storms cause invisible damage that shortens remaining life

Metal Roofing Lifespan Reality

Expected Lifespan by Metal Type:

•
Galvanized Steel: Advertised 30-40 years. Coastal reality: 25-35 years. Salt air accelerates corrosion on standard galvanized coatings.
•
Galvalume Steel: Advertised 40-60 years. Coastal reality: 40-50 years. Aluminum-zinc coating provides excellent salt resistance.
•
Aluminum: Advertised 50+ years. Coastal reality: 50-70 years. Naturally corrosion-resistant, ideal for beachfront properties.
•
Copper: Advertised 70-100+ years. Coastal reality: 80-100+ years. Develops protective patina, virtually maintenance-free.
•
Stone-Coated Steel: Advertised 50+ years. Coastal reality: 40-50 years. Stone coating protects base metal from salt exposure.

Maintenance Requirements

Asphalt Shingle Maintenance:

• Annual inspections (required for warranty)
• Algae treatment every 2-3 years
• Debris clearing after storms
• Gutter cleaning 2-4 times yearly
• Flashing inspection and repair
• Caulking and sealant maintenance

Metal Roofing Maintenance:

• Annual visual inspection
• Debris clearing as needed
• Gutter cleaning 1-2 times yearly
• Touch-up paint every 10-15 years
• Sealant inspection every 5-7 years
• Fastener check (exposed fastener only)

Bottom Line on Durability:

Metal roofing requires approximately 50-70% less maintenance than asphalt shingles over its lifetime. Standing seam metal with concealed fasteners is essentially "install and forget" for 20-30 years at a time, with only occasional inspections needed.

Energy Efficiency: Metal Roof vs Shingles Cooling Costs

In Myrtle Beach's hot, humid climate, your roof significantly impacts cooling costs. Here's how metal roofing and asphalt shingles compare for energy efficiency.

How Each Roof Handles Heat

Asphalt Shingles & Heat:

Asphalt shingles are essentially heat sponges. Dark-colored shingles can reach surface temperatures of 150-180°F on summer afternoons in Myrtle Beach. This heat transfers through your roof deck into your attic, forcing your AC to work overtime.

• Solar reflectance: 5-25% (absorbs 75-95% of solar energy)
• Attic temperature: Often 140-160°F in summer
• "Cool roof" shingles: Available but still only achieve 25-40% reflectance

Metal Roofing & Heat:

Metal roofing reflects solar radiation rather than absorbing it. Even darker metal colors reflect significantly more heat than comparable shingle colors, and the metal naturally re-emits absorbed heat quickly.

• Solar reflectance: 25-70% depending on color and coating
• Thermal emittance: Metal releases absorbed heat quickly (high emissivity)
• Attic temperature: Typically 15-25°F cooler than under shingles
• Cool roof coatings: Specialty coatings achieve 70-80% reflectance

Real Energy Savings

Multiple studies and our real-world observations confirm substantial cooling savings from metal roofing:

Metric	Asphalt Shingles	Metal Roofing
Cooling cost reduction	Baseline	10-25% reduction
With cool roof coating	5-15% reduction	25-40% reduction
Annual savings (typical home)	$0	$100-$300/year
50-year energy savings	$0	$5,000-$15,000

Maximizing Energy Savings:

For maximum energy efficiency with either roofing type, ensure proper attic insulation (R-38 or higher) and adequate ventilation. The best metal roof over an improperly insulated attic won't deliver its full energy-saving potential.

Installation Considerations: Metal Roof vs Shingles

Installation complexity affects both initial costs and long-term performance. Here's what's different about installing each roofing type.

Asphalt Shingle Installation

Timeline: 1-3 days for most residential roofs
Crew size: Typically 4-6 workers
Skill requirements: Moderate—most roofing crews are trained on shingles
Weather sensitivity: Cannot install in rain; temperature restrictions for adhesive strips
Noise/disruption: Moderate noise from nail guns, but shorter duration
Existing roof: Can sometimes be installed over one layer of existing shingles (not recommended)

Metal Roofing Installation

Timeline: 3-7 days for most residential roofs
Crew size: Typically 3-5 specialized workers
Skill requirements: High—requires specialized training for proper installation
Weather sensitivity: Can install in light rain; temperature less critical
Noise/disruption: More noise during panel cutting; longer project duration
Existing roof: Can sometimes be installed over existing shingles with proper preparation

Critical Warning:

Metal roofing installation errors are more serious and expensive to fix than shingle mistakes. A shingle nail in the wrong spot can be corrected easily. A metal panel with improper attachment or sealant will leak for the life of the roof. Always choose a contractor with extensive metal roofing experience and manufacturer certification.

Structural Considerations

Some homes require structural modifications for metal roofing:

Factor	Asphalt Shingles	Metal Roofing
Weight (per 100 sq ft)	200-350 lbs	50-150 lbs
Structural reinforcement needed	Rarely	Rarely (lighter weight)
Deck requirements	Plywood or OSB	Plywood, OSB, or purlins
Underlayment requirements	Synthetic or felt	High-temp synthetic required

Metal is Actually Easier on Your Structure:

Many homeowners worry about metal roofing being "too heavy," but the opposite is true. Metal roofing typically weighs 50-150 lbs per 100 square feet, while asphalt shingles weigh 200-350 lbs. If your home can handle shingles, it can definitely handle metal.

Aesthetics & Curb Appeal: Which Looks Better?

Both roofing materials offer attractive options, but they create very different aesthetic effects. Here's how to choose based on your home's style.

Asphalt Shingle Aesthetics

Best Home Styles for Shingles:

• Traditional Colonial/Cape Cod: Classic look that matches neighborhood expectations
• Ranch homes: Low-profile rooflines benefit from dimensional shingles
• Craftsman style: Rich earth tones complement natural wood elements
• HOA-restricted communities: Often required; blends with neighbors

Modern architectural shingles offer impressive dimension and color variety. Brands like GAF and Owens Corning offer 30+ color options with shadow lines that mimic the look of more expensive slate or wood shake.

Metal Roofing Aesthetics

Best Home Styles for Metal:

• Coastal/Beach homes: Clean lines complement modern coastal architecture
• Farmhouse/Modern Farmhouse: Standing seam defines the style
• Contemporary/Modern: Sleek metal panels enhance minimalist design
• Mediterranean (with tile profile): Stone-coated steel mimics clay tiles
• Lowcountry style: Traditional Southern choice for 200+ years

Color & Style Options

Asphalt Shingle Options:

• 30-50 color options per manufacturer
• 3-Tab (flat), Architectural, Designer styles
• Slate, wood shake, tile appearance available
• Most popular: Weathered Wood, Charcoal, Driftwood

Metal Roofing Options:

• Virtually unlimited color options
• Standing seam, corrugated, shake, tile, shingle profiles
• Matte, satin, and gloss finishes
• Most popular: Charcoal, Bronze, Galvalume (silver)

HOA Considerations:

Many Myrtle Beach HOAs still require asphalt shingles, though this is changing as metal roofing becomes more popular. Stone-coated steel (which looks like shingles or tile) is often approved where standing seam is not. Always get written HOA approval before committing to a roofing material.

Resale Value Impact

Both roofing types can enhance resale value, but metal typically adds more:

New asphalt roof: Adds 1-3% to home value; removes buyer concerns about roof condition
New metal roof: Adds 4-6% to home value; becomes a marketing feature
Coastal premium: Metal roofing is increasingly expected on higher-end coastal properties
Buyer perception: Many buyers view metal as "never replacing the roof again"

Metal Roof vs Shingles: Complete Pros & Cons

Here's a comprehensive summary of advantages and disadvantages for each roofing type, specifically in coastal conditions.

Metal Roofing Pros

✓
50-70 year lifespan: Typically the last roof you'll ever install
✓
Superior hurricane resistance: 140-180 MPH wind ratings
✓
10-35% insurance discounts: Significant annual savings
✓
25-40% cooling cost reduction: Reflects heat instead of absorbing
✓
Minimal maintenance: No algae treatments, less frequent inspections
✓
Fire resistant: Class A fire rating (non-combustible)
✓
Environmentally friendly: 25-95% recycled content; 100% recyclable
✓
Higher resale value: 4-6% home value increase

Metal Roofing Cons

✗
Higher upfront cost: 2-3x more expensive than asphalt shingles
✗
Specialized installation: Fewer qualified contractors; mistakes are costly
✗
More expensive repairs: When repairs are needed, costs are higher
✗
Noise (outdated concern): With proper underlayment, not an issue
✗
Denting potential: Large hail can dent some metal types
✗
HOA restrictions: Not approved in all communities

Asphalt Shingle Pros

✓
Lower upfront cost: 50-60% less expensive initially
✓
Widely available contractors: Every roofing company installs shingles
✓
Easy repairs: Simple, affordable repairs from any roofer
✓
Faster installation: 1-3 days vs 3-7 days for metal
✓
HOA compliance: Approved virtually everywhere
✓
Color variety: Extensive options from major manufacturers
✓
Proven track record: 100+ years of industry experience

Asphalt Shingle Cons

✗
Shorter lifespan: 15-30 years in coastal conditions
✗
Hurricane vulnerability: 110-130 MPH max; shingles can lift or blow off
✗
Higher lifetime cost: Need 2-3 roofs over 50 years
✗
Maintenance requirements: Annual inspections, algae treatments
✗
Heat absorption: Increases cooling costs significantly
✗
Environmental impact: Petroleum-based; difficult to recycle
✗
Age degradation: Wind resistance decreases as shingles age

Who Should Choose Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing makes the most sense for homeowners in specific situations. Here's who benefits most from the higher upfront investment.

Metal Roofing is Best For:

1.
"Forever Home" Buyers: If you plan to stay 20+ years, metal roofing's lifetime cost is significantly lower. One roof vs. 2-3 shingle roofs.
2.
High Hurricane Risk Properties: Beachfront, elevated homes, or properties with history of storm damage benefit from 140-180 MPH wind ratings.
3.
High Insurance Premium Homes: If you're paying $5,000+/year for homeowners insurance, metal roof discounts can save $500-$1,500 annually.
4.
Investment Property Owners: Reduced maintenance, longer lifespan, and lower operating costs improve cash flow over time.
5.
Environmentally Conscious Homeowners: 25-95% recycled content, 100% recyclable, reduced energy consumption.
6.
Coastal/Farmhouse Architectural Styles: Metal enhances home value and curb appeal for these styles.

The Sweet Spot for Metal:

Homeowners who plan to live in their home 15+ years AND have higher-than-average insurance premiums AND prioritize storm protection see the best return on metal roofing investment. If you meet 2 of these 3 criteria, metal is likely your better choice.

Who Should Choose Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles remain an excellent choice for many homeowners. Here's when shingles make more financial and practical sense.

Asphalt Shingles are Best For:

1.
5-10 Year Homeowners: If you'll sell within a decade, you won't recoup metal's higher cost. Shingles provide good protection at lower investment.
2.
Budget-Constrained Projects: If choosing between quality shingles now or cheap metal now, choose quality shingles. Poor metal installation causes problems.
3.
HOA-Restricted Communities: If your HOA requires shingles, premium architectural shingles (GAF HDZ, Owens Corning Duration) are excellent choices.
4.
Traditional Home Styles: Colonial, Cape Cod, and many ranch homes look best with dimensional asphalt shingles.
5.
Inland Properties: Homes 10+ miles from coast face less severe conditions; shingles perform well with less storm exposure.
6.
Insurance Not a Major Factor: If your insurance is already reasonable, metal's premium savings won't offset the cost difference quickly.

Important Note:

If you choose shingles, invest in quality. The difference between a $8,000 budget roof and a $12,000 premium roof is only $4,000—but the premium roof lasts 5-10 years longer and performs significantly better in storms. Never skimp on shingle quality to save a few thousand dollars.

Making Your Final Decision: Metal Roof vs Shingles

Still undecided? Use this decision framework to determine which roofing material is right for your specific situation.

Decision Checklist

Score each factor based on your situation. More points toward metal = metal is likely your better choice.

Question	Shingles	Metal
How long will you live here?	<10 years	15+ years
Annual insurance premium?	<$3,000	>$5,000
Distance from coast?	>5 miles	<3 miles
Previous storm damage?	Never	Yes, significant
Upfront budget?	$8,000-$12,000	$18,000-$25,000+
Home style?	Traditional	Coastal/Modern
HOA restrictions?	Shingles required	Metal allowed
Maintenance preference?	Will maintain regularly	Want "set and forget"

The Right Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Regardless of which material you're leaning toward, ask these questions before hiring:

How many roofs of this type have you installed in the last 2 years? (Want 50+ for shingles, 20+ for metal)
Are you manufacturer-certified for this product line? (Critical for warranty coverage)
What warranty do you provide on workmanship? (Look for 5+ years minimum)
Can I speak with 3-5 recent customers? (Should provide references readily)
What's included in your quote, and what might add cost? (Avoid surprise charges)
How do you handle storm damage discovered during installation? (Important for older homes)

Free Expert Consultation:

Still unsure? WeatherShield Roofing offers free roof inspections and consultations for Myrtle Beach homeowners. We'll assess your current roof, discuss your goals and budget, and provide honest recommendations—whether that's metal, shingles, or repair instead of replacement. Call (843) 877-5539 or schedule your free inspection online.

The Cost Comparison: Maintenance vs. Neglect

Without Maintenance

Roof lifespan: 12-15 years
Insurance claims often denied
Emergency repairs cost 3x more
Property value decreases by 5-10%
Warranty becomes void
Total 20-year cost: $35,000+

With Regular Maintenance

Roof lifespan: 25-30+ years
Insurance claims approved
Prevent costly emergencies
Property value protected
Full warranty coverage maintained
Total 20-year cost: $8,000-10,000

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Every day you delay costs you money. Get your FREE professional roof inspection today and discover exactly what condition your roof is in.

Call Now: (843) 877-5539 Get Free Inspection

Emergency? Call our 24/7 hotline: (843) 877-5539

Need Professional Help?

WeatherShield Roofing is Myrtle Beach's highest-rated roofing company with a perfect 5.0-star Google rating. We can help with any roofing need:

Roof Repair in Myrtle Beach Roof Replacement Myrtle Beach Roof Leak Repair Near Me Emergency Roof Repair Near Me Free Roof Inspection Near Me Roofing Contractors Myrtle Beach

Call (843) 877-5539 for a Free Estimate

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Author

David Karimi

Lead Roofing Specialist & Coastal Roofing Expert

David Karimi is WeatherShield Roofing's Lead Roofing Specialist with over 15 years of experience installing both metal roofs and asphalt shingles on coastal properties. As a certified contractor for GAF, Owens Corning, and multiple metal roofing manufacturers, David has personally installed over 700 roofs in hurricane zones and helps homeowners choose the right roofing material for Myrtle Beach's demanding coastal climate.

The Bottom Line: Your Roof, Your Choice

Every day you wait is another day closer to that emergency call no homeowner wants to make. The statistics are clear: 80% of roofs fail prematurely, and 61% of homeowners can't afford the emergency repairs that follow.