Metal vs Shingle Roofing: Complete Comparison for Coastal Homes
Shocking Industry Truth
You're standing in your driveway looking at your aging roof, trying to decide: metal or shingles? The contractor says metal lasts longer but costs more. Your neighbor loves their asphalt shingles but replaces them every 20 years.
For Myrtle Beach homeowners, this isn't just about aesthetics or budget—it's about hurricane resistance, salt air corrosion, and energy costs in our humid coastal climate.
This comprehensive comparison analyzes metal roofing vs asphalt shingles across 8 critical factors, with specific recommendations for coastal South Carolina.
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Cost Comparison: Installation and Lifetime Value
Initial Installation Costs
Asphalt Shingles
$4-$7/sq ft
For a 2,000 sq ft roof: $8,000-$14,000 installed
Metal Roofing
$8-$14/sq ft
For a 2,000 sq ft roof: $16,000-$28,000 installed
Lifetime Cost Analysis (50 Years)
This is where metal roofing shines:
- ✅ Asphalt: 2-3 roof replacements = $24,000-$42,000 total
- ✅ Metal: 1 roof replacement = $16,000-$28,000 total
Over 50 years, metal roofing costs 40-50% less despite higher upfront cost.
Durability and Lifespan
Asphalt Shingles
- Lifespan: 15-30 years (coastal areas: 15-20 years)
- Salt resistance: Moderate (requires algae-resistant coating)
- Wind rating: Up to 130 mph (Class 4 impact-resistant)
- Maintenance: Moderate (granule loss, moss, algae)
Metal Roofing
- Lifespan: 40-70 years (coastal: 40-50 years with proper coating)
- Salt resistance: Excellent (aluminum/galvanized steel with coating)
- Wind rating: Up to 140+ mph (interlocking panels)
- Maintenance: Minimal (periodic coating inspection)
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.
Emergency? Call our 24/7 hotline: (843) 877-5539
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Weather Shield Roofing
Roofing Material Specialists
Weather Shield Roofing installs both metal and shingle roofing systems for coastal properties. Our team helps homeowners make informed decisions based on budget, climate, and long-term goals.
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.
What You Get with Weather Shield Roofing:
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Join thousands of smart Myrtle Beach homeowners who protect their investment with regular maintenance.
Emergency? Call our 24/7 hotline: (843) 877-5539