Types of Roofing Materials: The Complete Homeowner's Guide (2026)

Before we dig into each material individually, here is the big-picture comparison. This table covers all 15 roofing materials side by side so you can quickly compare the factors that matter most: how long it lasts, what it costs, how it handles wind, and which climate it works best in.

A note on coastal SC performance: Manufacturer lifespan ratings assume average conditions. In Myrtle Beach, salt air, UV exposure, humidity, and hurricane-force winds reduce the actual lifespan of most materials by 15-30%. The lifespans shown below reflect real-world coastal SC performance based on what I have observed across thousands of installations -- not what the box says. For a deeper dive into how long each material truly lasts, read our guide on how long a roof actually lasts by material type.

How to use this table: If you want the lowest upfront cost, look at the Cost/Sq Ft column. If you want the lowest cost over 30 years, you need to factor in lifespan -- a material that costs twice as much but lasts three times as long is the better deal. If you live in a hurricane zone (and if you are reading this from the Grand Strand, you do), the wind rating column should heavily influence your decision. We break down the 30-year cost analysis in the cost comparison section below.

Asphalt shingles cover approximately 80% of American homes, and for good reason: they offer a balance of affordability, appearance, and performance that no other material matches at their price point. But not all asphalt shingles are created equal. The gap between entry-level 3-tab shingles and premium architectural or luxury shingles is enormous -- in performance, appearance, and especially hurricane resistance.

For an in-depth head-to-head comparison of the two most common types, read our dedicated guide: Architectural vs. 3-Tab Shingles for Coastal SC.

3-Tab Shingles

3-tab shingles are the most basic, most affordable roofing material available. They consist of a single layer of asphalt-coated fiberglass with a flat, uniform appearance. Each shingle has three tabs (cutouts) that create a brick-like pattern on the roof.

Cost: $3.50-$5.50 per square foot installed. For a typical 2,000-square-foot roof in Myrtle Beach, expect to pay $7,000-$11,000 for a full replacement.

Lifespan: Manufacturers rate 3-tab shingles at 20-25 years, but in coastal South Carolina, I consistently see them fail at 12-18 years. Salt air degrades the asphalt binder, humidity promotes algae growth that eats granules, and wind-driven rain exploits the single-layer construction. I have pulled off 15-year-old 3-tab shingles in Surfside Beach that looked like they had been on the roof for 30 years.

Wind resistance: This is the deal-breaker for coastal homeowners. Most 3-tab shingles are rated for only 60-70 mph winds. A Category 1 hurricane starts at 74 mph. That means the cheapest material on the market is not rated to survive even the weakest category of hurricane. During Hurricane Florence in 2018, I responded to dozens of homes in Conway and Myrtle Beach where 3-tab shingles were peeled off like stickers.

Pros: Lowest upfront cost, widely available, easy to install, easy to repair, familiar appearance.

Cons: Lowest wind resistance, shortest real-world lifespan on the coast, flat appearance looks dated, poor insurance value (no wind credits), most likely to need premature replacement.

My honest take: I do not recommend 3-tab shingles for any home in coastal South Carolina. The money you save upfront, you pay back double in premature replacement, storm damage deductibles, and higher insurance premiums. For just $1-2 more per square foot, architectural shingles give you dramatically better wind resistance and a longer lifespan. If budget is truly the constraint, I would rather install architectural shingles on the wind-facing sides and 3-tabs on the sheltered sides than put 3-tabs everywhere.

Architectural Shingles (Dimensional/Laminate)

Architectural shingles are the standard recommendation for most coastal SC homeowners. They use two or more layers of asphalt-coated fiberglass laminated together, creating a thicker, heavier, more wind-resistant shingle with a dimensional, shadow-line appearance that mimics natural materials like wood shake or slate.

Cost: $4.50-$7.00 per square foot installed. A typical 2,000-square-foot roof runs $9,000-$14,000. The premium over 3-tab is typically $2,000-$4,000 for a full roof -- a fraction of the value difference.

Lifespan: Manufacturers rate architectural shingles at 30-50 years (depending on the product line). In coastal SC, I see them perform well for 18-25 years with proper installation and ventilation. That is 5-10 years longer than 3-tab in the same conditions -- a significant difference.

Wind resistance: Most architectural shingles carry a 110-130 mph wind warranty, which covers Category 2-3 hurricanes. Premium lines from Owens Corning and GAF offer enhanced wind ratings when installed with specific nailing patterns and starter strip systems. The GAF Timberline HDZ, for example, carries a 130 mph limited wind warranty with the LayerLock nailing zone.

Pros: Strong wind resistance, dimensional appearance, widely available, good insurance value, multiple color and style options, compatible with most roof structures.

Cons: Still vulnerable to algae in high-humidity climates (choose algae-resistant options like Atlas Pinnacle Pristine or CertainTeed algae-resistant lines), heavier than 3-tab (verify structure can support weight), more expensive than 3-tab.

Luxury/Designer Shingles

Luxury shingles represent the top tier of asphalt roofing. Products like GAF Grand Canyon, Owens Corning Berkshire, and CertainTeed Grand Manor use multiple laminated layers with oversized profiles to closely replicate the look of natural slate or cedar shake -- at a fraction of the weight and cost.

Cost: $6.00-$10.00 per square foot installed. For a 2,000-square-foot roof, expect $12,000-$20,000. This is a significant premium over standard architectural, but it buys you the longest-lasting asphalt product available and a dramatic aesthetic upgrade.

Lifespan: 22-30 years in coastal SC. The thicker profile and heavier construction resists wind damage and UV degradation better than standard architectural, and most luxury lines include enhanced algae resistance as a standard feature.

Wind resistance: Most luxury shingles carry 110-130 mph wind warranties. The heavier weight actually helps here -- they are less likely to lift in high winds than thinner shingles.

Pros: Best appearance in the asphalt category, longest asphalt lifespan, highest resale value impact, enhanced algae resistance, excellent curb appeal for higher-end homes.

Cons: Significantly more expensive, heavier (may require structural verification), limited contractor expertise for some products, still not matching metal or tile for raw longevity.

My recommendation for asphalt: For most homeowners in coastal SC, I recommend architectural shingles with algae-resistant technology as the sweet spot. They deliver 80% of the performance of luxury shingles at 60% of the cost. If your home is valued above $400,000 and curb appeal matters, luxury shingles are worth the upgrade -- the resale value impact alone often pays for the premium.

If I could only recommend one roofing material for coastal South Carolina, it would be metal -- specifically, standing seam metal. No other material comes close to matching its combination of wind resistance, longevity, low maintenance, and insurance value in a hurricane zone. For my complete analysis, read our Standing Seam Metal Roof Complete Guide for Coastal SC.

Metal roofing comes in three main types, and the differences matter enormously for coastal performance. We have a full breakdown of metal roofing pros and cons for coastal SC and a detailed guide to the best metal roofing materials for hurricane zones.

Standing Seam Metal

Standing seam is the gold standard of metal roofing and, in my professional opinion, the best overall roofing material for coastal South Carolina. The panels interlock with raised seams and use concealed fasteners, meaning there are no exposed screws or nails for wind and water to exploit.

Cost: $8.00-$14.00 per square foot installed. For a 2,000-square-foot roof, expect $16,000-$28,000. Yes, this is 2-3x the cost of architectural shingles. But read the lifespan and insurance numbers before you dismiss it.

Lifespan: 35-50 years in coastal SC -- and I have seen aluminum standing seam roofs pushing 60 years on oceanfront homes in Pawleys Island. The concealed fastener system eliminates the #1 failure point of other metal roofs (exposed fastener deterioration). Choose aluminum or Galvalume steel for coastal applications -- standard galvanized steel corrodes faster in salt air.

Wind resistance: 140-180 mph, depending on the panel profile and attachment system. This is Category 5 hurricane territory. Standing seam is the material I install on my own home and recommend to any homeowner who asks "what survives a direct hurricane hit?" After Hurricane Florence, the homes on my repair list were overwhelmingly asphalt shingle roofs. The standing seam roofs I had installed came through with zero damage reports.

Insurance impact: Standing seam metal qualifies for the maximum wind mitigation credits on SC homeowners insurance. I have seen homeowners save $800-$2,000 per year on premiums after switching from asphalt to standing seam. Over 30 years, that adds up to $24,000-$60,000 in insurance savings -- which can offset most or all of the upfront cost difference.

For a detailed comparison between standing seam and corrugated metal, see our standing seam vs. corrugated metal roof comparison.

Corrugated/Exposed Fastener Metal

Corrugated metal roofing uses exposed screws with rubber washers to attach panels to the roof deck. It is significantly cheaper than standing seam and still offers strong performance -- but those exposed fasteners are the Achilles' heel, especially on the coast.

Cost: $5.50-$9.00 per square foot installed. About 40-50% less than standing seam for the same home.

Lifespan: 25-40 years in coastal SC, but the exposed fastener gaskets typically need replacement at 10-15 years. Salt air accelerates the deterioration of the rubber washers, and once those fail, you get leaks at every screw hole. This maintenance cost is the hidden expense of exposed fastener metal.

Wind resistance: 110-140 mph -- strong, but meaningfully lower than standing seam because the exposed fasteners are a potential wind intrusion point. When a rubber washer fails and a screw loosens, wind can get under the panel and peel it back.

Pros: Much cheaper than standing seam, good wind resistance, long lifespan, fast installation.

Cons: Exposed fasteners are a maintenance liability in salt air, rubber washers degrade faster on the coast, noisier in rain than standing seam, lower wind resistance than standing seam, requires periodic fastener inspections.

For guidance on which metal type fits your roof's geometry, read our minimum pitch for metal roofing guide.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles give you the performance of metal with the appearance of traditional shingles, slate, or shake. They are stamped from aluminum or steel into shingle-shaped panels that interlock during installation. For homeowners who want metal performance but do not want the "barn roof" look, metal shingles are an excellent middle ground.

We have a full guide on metal roofs that look like shingles if you want to explore this option in depth.

Cost: $7.00-$12.00 per square foot installed. Positioned between corrugated and standing seam in price.

Lifespan: 30-45 years in coastal SC. The interlocking design provides good wind resistance, and most metal shingles use concealed or semi-concealed fastener systems that perform better than fully exposed fasteners.

Wind resistance: 110-150 mph, depending on the profile and locking system. High-end metal shingles approach standing seam performance.

Pros: Traditional shingle appearance, strong wind resistance, long lifespan, lighter than real slate/tile, available in many styles and colors.

Cons: More expensive than asphalt, fewer contractors experienced in installation, some profiles can dent from hail impact, requires specific underlayment systems.

My recommendation for metal: If your budget allows, standing seam is the clear winner for coastal SC. If standing seam is out of reach, metal shingles are an excellent alternative. I would recommend corrugated only for outbuildings, carports, or situations where budget is the primary constraint and you are committed to periodic fastener maintenance.

Tile roofs are among the most distinctive and longest-lasting roofing materials in the world. Drive through any upscale coastal neighborhood -- from Pawleys Island to Litchfield Beach -- and you will see barrel-shaped clay tiles on Mediterranean, Spanish, and Tuscan-style homes. They are beautiful, durable, and carry serious weight implications that every homeowner must understand before committing.

Clay Tile

Clay tile roofing is made from natural clay that is molded and kiln-fired at extremely high temperatures. The result is an exceptionally hard, weather-resistant material that resists UV degradation, salt air corrosion, and insect damage. Unlike asphalt -- which degrades over time as the binder oxidizes -- clay is essentially inert. A well-installed clay tile roof in coastal SC can last 40-60 years, and in drier climates, clay tile has been documented surviving 100+ years.

Cost: $10.00-$18.00 per square foot installed. This includes the structural reinforcement that most SC homes require. A typical 2,000-square-foot clay tile roof costs $20,000-$36,000 -- and that does not include the $3,000-$8,000 you may need to spend on structural upgrades to support the weight.

The weight problem: This is the single biggest issue with tile roofing. Clay tile weighs 900-1,200 pounds per roofing square (100 square feet). Compare that to 200-320 pounds for asphalt shingles or 100-150 for metal. Most homes in the Myrtle Beach area were not framed to support this weight. Before installing clay tile, a structural engineer must verify that your trusses, rafters, and load-bearing walls can handle the load. Reinforcement adds $3,000-$8,000 or more, depending on the home.

Wind resistance: 125-150 mph when mechanically fastened. Clay tile can perform well in hurricanes, but there is a critical distinction: the tiles themselves are strong, but individual tiles can be broken by wind-borne debris. When a tile breaks, it can become a projectile that damages other tiles. After a major storm, tile roofs often need individual tile replacements even if the roof structure is fine.

Pros: Exceptional longevity, beautiful appearance, excellent fire resistance, resists rot/insects, strong in salt air, high resale value.

Cons: Extreme weight (often requires structural reinforcement), very expensive, fragile to impact (walking on tiles can break them), specialized installation required, limited contractor availability in the Grand Strand, broken tiles create costly spot repairs.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tile is made from Portland cement, sand, and water molded into various profiles. It can replicate the look of clay tile, wood shake, or slate at a lower price point. However, concrete is more porous than clay, which creates issues in the high-humidity coastal SC environment.

Cost: $8.00-$14.00 per square foot installed -- roughly 20-30% less than clay for a similar look.

Lifespan: 35-50 years in coastal SC. Concrete is more susceptible to moisture absorption than clay, which can lead to cracking, efflorescence (white salt deposits), and algae/moss growth in our humid climate. The color also fades faster than clay because concrete tile is surface-coated rather than through-body colored.

My recommendation for tile: If you love the tile aesthetic and your home can support the weight (or you are willing to invest in structural reinforcement), clay tile is the better long-term investment for coastal SC. The higher cost over concrete pays for itself in reduced moisture issues, better color retention, and a longer lifespan. Concrete tile makes more sense in drier climates where moisture absorption is less of a concern.

For a material that delivers premium aesthetics without the extreme weight, also consider natural or synthetic slate roofing.

Natural slate is the longest-lasting roofing material ever used on residential homes. Quarried from metamorphic rock and split into thin, dense tiles, a properly installed slate roof can protect a home for 75-100+ years -- outlasting the mortgage, the original owners, and often the home itself. For our full analysis of this premium material, read our slate roofing guide for Myrtle Beach.

Cost: $15.00-$30.00 per square foot installed. A 2,000-square-foot slate roof costs $30,000-$60,000 or more. This is the most expensive conventional roofing material, and the installation requires highly skilled craftsmen -- not every roofing contractor can install slate correctly. For a deeper look at longevity expectations, see our guide on how long a slate roof lasts.

Lifespan: 75-100+ years. Hard slate (from quarries in Vermont, Virginia, and Pennsylvania) routinely lasts over a century. Soft slate lasts 50-75 years. In coastal SC, I would expect hard slate to push 80-100 years -- salt air does not meaningfully affect stone the way it affects asphalt or metal.

Weight: 800-1,500 pounds per square. Like tile, structural verification is required before installation. Many standard-framed homes cannot support slate without reinforcement.

Wind resistance: 110-150 mph. Slate's density and weight make it naturally wind-resistant. The primary concern is the same as tile: individual slates can crack from debris impact, and the fasteners (copper or stainless steel nails) are the weak point in extreme wind events.

Pros: Longest lifespan of any material, unmatched aesthetic elegance, essentially fireproof, impervious to rot/insects/algae, increases home value significantly, minimal maintenance.

Cons: Highest upfront cost, extreme weight (structural reinforcement often needed), requires specialized installation, fragile to foot traffic, broken slates can be difficult to match, very few qualified installers in the Myrtle Beach area.

Who should consider slate: Slate is a generational investment. It makes financial sense on homes valued at $750,000+ where the owners plan to stay for 20+ years or are building a legacy property. On a cost-per-year-of-protection basis, slate is actually competitive with mid-range asphalt when you factor in the multiple replacements asphalt requires over the same period. If you love the slate look but cannot justify the cost or weight, read on to the specialty materials section -- synthetic slate may be your answer.

Flat and low-slope roofing is a different category entirely. The materials used on flat roofs are fundamentally different from sloped roofing -- you cannot install asphalt shingles or metal panels on a roof with less than a 2:12 pitch. Flat roofs require membrane or built-up systems that create a continuous waterproof barrier. For our complete guide, see best roofing materials for flat roofs in Myrtle Beach.

In the Grand Strand, flat roofs are common on commercial buildings, pool houses, additions, modern-style homes, and carports. Choosing the right membrane for our climate -- with its intense UV, heavy rain events, and high humidity -- is critical.

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO has rapidly become the most popular flat roofing membrane in the Southeast, and for good reason. Its white reflective surface dramatically reduces cooling costs in our hot climate, and its heat-welded seams create watertight joints that outperform adhesive-based systems. For the full deep-dive, read our TPO roofing complete guide and our TPO installation guide for Myrtle Beach.

Cost: $5.00-$8.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 15-25 years in coastal SC. Wind resistance: Up to 120 mph with mechanical attachment.

Pros: Excellent UV reflection (lowers AC costs by 15-25%), strong heat-welded seams, energy-efficient, lightweight, good chemical resistance.

Cons: Relatively newer material (less long-term track record than EPDM or BUR), thinner membranes (45-60 mil) can be punctured, quality varies significantly between manufacturers.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

EPDM is the classic "rubber roof" that has been used on commercial and residential flat roofs for over 50 years. It is a synthetic rubber membrane that is extremely durable and flexible.

Cost: $4.50-$7.50 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 15-25 years in coastal SC. Wind resistance: Up to 110 mph.

Pros: Proven 50-year track record, excellent flexibility (handles thermal expansion well), easy to repair, lower cost than TPO or PVC.

Cons: Black surface absorbs heat (increases cooling costs), adhesive seams are the weak point (can fail in extreme heat), not as UV-resistant as TPO, absorbs more heat than white membranes. For Myrtle Beach, the heat absorption is a real issue -- EPDM roofs can hit 170+ degrees Fahrenheit in summer, driving up your AC bill and accelerating underlayment deterioration.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is the premium flat roofing membrane, offering the best combination of durability, chemical resistance, and longevity.

Cost: $6.00-$10.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 20-30 years in coastal SC. Wind resistance: Up to 130 mph.

Pros: Longest-lasting flat roof membrane, excellent chemical resistance (ideal near restaurant exhaust or pool chemicals), heat-welded seams (stronger than adhesive), white reflective surface, best overall wind resistance for flat membranes.

Cons: Most expensive flat roof option, can become brittle in extreme cold (not an issue in SC), requires specialized equipment for heat welding, thinner versions (under 60 mil) can be less puncture-resistant.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-up roofing is the original flat roof system -- multiple layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabric (felt or fiberglass) built up to create a thick, durable membrane. Commonly called "tar and gravel" roofing.

Cost: $4.00-$8.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 15-25 years. Wind resistance: Up to 100 mph with gravel ballast.

Pros: Time-tested system, multiple layers provide redundancy, gravel surface resists UV and foot traffic, good waterproofing when properly installed.

Cons: Heaviest flat roof option (300-600 lbs/square), slow installation, strong odor during installation (hot asphalt), difficult to locate leaks due to multiple layers, gravel can clog drains.

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is an evolution of BUR that uses polymer-modified asphalt sheets that are rolled out and either torch-applied, cold-adhered, or self-adhered. It offers better flexibility and easier installation than traditional BUR.

Cost: $4.50-$8.50 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 15-25 years. Wind resistance: Up to 110 mph.

Pros: Better flexibility than BUR, easier installation, good waterproofing, can be coated with reflective coating for energy savings.

Cons: Torch application is a fire risk during installation, seams are less reliable than heat-welded systems (TPO/PVC), shorter lifespan than PVC.

My recommendation for flat roofs: For residential flat roof applications in coastal SC, I recommend TPO for most situations (best value with energy savings) and PVC for premium applications (longest life, best wind and chemical resistance). EPDM is a solid budget option but the black surface creates real energy costs in our climate. Also make sure to read our guide on flat roof ventilation in Myrtle Beach -- proper ventilation is critical for any flat roof system in our humid climate.

Beyond the traditional categories, several innovative roofing materials are gaining traction across the Grand Strand. These are not fringe products anymore -- they are becoming practical options for specific situations.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles integrate photovoltaic cells directly into the roofing material, turning your entire roof into a power generator while still functioning as a weatherproof barrier. Products like Tesla Solar Roof and GAF Energy Timberline Solar are leading this category. For our complete analysis, read our solar shingles complete guide and our comparison of solar shingles vs. solar panels for Myrtle Beach.

Cost: $21.00-$25.00 per square foot installed -- roughly 3-4x the cost of a premium asphalt roof. However, this includes both your roofing material AND your solar energy system, so the comparison should be against the combined cost of a new roof plus a traditional solar panel installation.

Lifespan: 25-30 years (matches their power generation warranty). The roofing material itself may last longer, but the solar output degrades over time as with any photovoltaic system.

Pros: Generates electricity, sleek integrated appearance, increasing property value, federal tax credit (30% through 2032), strong wind ratings (110-130 mph), replaces two separate systems (roof + solar).

Cons: Very high upfront cost, limited installer availability, relatively new technology (long-term reliability still being proven), not optimal for all roof orientations or pitches, warranty claims involve both roofing and electrical systems.

Synthetic Slate and Shake

Synthetic roofing materials are engineered to replicate the appearance of natural slate or cedar shake while being lighter, more durable, and more affordable than the real thing. Made from recycled rubber, plastic, or polymer composites, these products have improved dramatically in recent years.

Cost: $9.00-$14.00 per square foot installed -- roughly 40-50% less than natural slate.

Lifespan: 30-50 years. The best synthetic products (DaVinci, Brava, CeDUR) carry 50-year warranties and have shown strong performance in accelerated aging tests. Real-world track records are still building -- most products are under 20 years old.

Pros: Fraction of the weight of real slate/tile (no structural reinforcement needed), looks remarkably similar to natural materials, Class A fire rating on most products, strong wind ratings, impact-resistant (Class 4 on many products), walkable without damage.

Cons: Still expensive compared to asphalt, limited long-term track record, some products fade or discolor over time, quality varies widely between manufacturers, may not match the exact look of natural materials upon close inspection.

Green Roofs (Vegetative Roofs)

Green roofs use a layered system of waterproof membrane, drainage, growing medium, and live plants to create a living roofing surface. While more common on commercial buildings, they are appearing on residential homes, particularly modern and eco-conscious construction.

Cost: $15.00-$35.00 per square foot for a full intensive system. Extensive (sedum-only) systems start around $15, while intensive systems with deeper soil and diverse plantings can reach $35 or more.

Lifespan: 30-50 years for the membrane system beneath. The living surface requires ongoing care.

Pros: Exceptional insulation, stormwater management, reduces urban heat island effect, beautiful appearance, can extend underlying membrane life, potential tax incentives in some areas.

Cons: Highest maintenance of any roofing system, extreme weight (structural reinforcement required), very high upfront cost, requires specialized design and installation, irrigation needed in coastal SC summers, limited contractor availability, not suitable for sloped roofs.

My take on specialty materials: Solar shingles make financial sense if you are already planning both a roof replacement AND a solar installation -- the combined cost is often less than doing both separately. Synthetic slate/shake is my pick for homeowners who want the premium look of slate or shake without the weight or cost. Green roofs remain a niche product best suited for commercial or high-end architectural projects.

Upfront cost is only half the story. A material that costs twice as much but lasts three times as long is the better financial decision. The table below breaks down the true cost of each roofing material over a 30-year period -- factoring in initial installation, expected replacements during that window, and the resulting cost per year of protection. For our complete cost analysis, see our 2026 roof replacement cost guide.

Assumptions: 2,000-square-foot roof in Myrtle Beach, SC. Coastal SC lifespans used (not manufacturer ratings). Costs include materials, labor, tear-off, and disposal. Replacement costs assume 3% annual inflation.

The key takeaway: When you look at cost per year of protection, standing seam metal and natural slate emerge as the most cost-effective long-term options -- even though they have the highest upfront costs. The cheapest material (3-tab shingles) is actually one of the most expensive over 30 years because you will replace it twice.

This calculation does not even include the insurance premium savings from higher-rated materials, which can add up to $30,000-$60,000 over 30 years for standing seam metal vs. 3-tab shingles. When you factor in insurance savings, standing seam metal often costs less over 30 years than 3-tab asphalt.

This is the question I get asked more than any other, and it is the question that 99% of generic roofing material guides cannot answer -- because they do not install roofs in coastal South Carolina. I do. I have been installing and inspecting roofs across the Grand Strand for over 15 years, and I have seen exactly how each material performs against our combination of hurricanes, salt air, high humidity, intense UV, and wind-driven rain.

Here are my ranked recommendations for five different homeowner priorities. For even more detail on hurricane-specific performance, read our guide on the best roofing materials for hurricane season in SC and our material lifespan guide: how long does a roof last by material type.

Best for Hurricane Zones (Wind Rating Focus)

Best for Salt Air Environments (Corrosion Resistance Focus)

If your home is within 3 miles of the ocean, salt air corrosion is a major factor in your material choice.

Important note on metal in salt air: If you choose metal roofing within 1,500 feet of the ocean, use aluminum -- not Galvalume or galvanized steel. Steel-based metal roofs will show corrosion within 5-10 years in direct coastal exposure. Aluminum costs more but will not corrode. This is a mistake I see other contractors make regularly.

Best for High Humidity (Moisture and Algae Resistance Focus)

Myrtle Beach averages 75-80% relative humidity. Every roofing material will face moisture, algae, and mold pressure.

Best for Budget-Conscious Homeowners

When budget is the primary constraint, the question is not "what is cheapest to install?" but "what gives me the best value for my dollars?"

My recommendation: Architectural shingles with algae resistance. At $9,000-$14,000 for a typical 2,000 sq ft roof, they offer the best balance of upfront affordability, wind resistance (110-130 mph), and coastal lifespan (18-25 years). Avoid the temptation to save $2,000-$3,000 with 3-tab shingles -- you will spend that difference and more on premature replacement and higher insurance premiums.

If you can stretch the budget to $16,000-$20,000, corrugated metal is a strong second option that will likely last longer with lower maintenance costs.

Best for Maximum Lifespan

If you never want to replace your roof again:

• Natural slate: 75-100+ years. The "buy it once" option.
• Clay tile: 40-60 years in coastal SC. One roof for half a century.
• Standing seam metal (aluminum): 35-50 years. The best balance of extreme longevity, hurricane protection, and reasonable weight.
• Synthetic slate: 30-50 years. The longest lifespan at a moderate weight.

Choosing a roofing material involves balancing seven factors. Here is the framework I walk every homeowner through during our free consultations:

The 7 Factors That Determine Your Best Material

Quick Decision Matrix

Use this to quickly narrow your options based on your top two priorities:

The bottom line: There is no single "best" roofing material for everyone. But there is a best material for your specific home, budget, and priorities. The decision matrix above will get you 80% of the way there. The final 20% requires evaluating your specific roof -- its pitch, structural capacity, current condition, and exposure. That is what our free consultations are for.

In South Carolina, your roofing material is one of the single biggest factors in your homeowners insurance premium. The right material choice can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year in premiums -- and the wrong choice can make your home difficult or expensive to insure, especially on the coast.

Wind Mitigation Credits by Material

South Carolina insurance companies offer wind mitigation credits based on how well your roof resists wind damage. These credits directly reduce your premium, and the savings can be substantial:

How Material Choice Affects Insurability

Beyond premium savings, your material choice affects whether you can even get insurance in coastal SC:

• Roof age thresholds: SC insurers commonly switch coverage from Replacement Cost Value (RCV) to Actual Cash Value (ACV) as roofs age. Materials with longer lifespans delay this switch, keeping you at full replacement coverage for longer.
• Renewal eligibility: Some coastal SC insurers refuse to renew policies on homes with roofs over 15-20 years old. A 50-year metal roof keeps you insurable long after a 3-tab shingle roof would trigger a non-renewal.
• Claims history: Homes with storm-resistant materials file fewer claims. A clean claims history qualifies you for better rates from more carriers.
• SC Fortified Home program: Homes with roofs that meet IBHS FORTIFIED standards (which favor metal and impact-resistant materials) may qualify for additional credits with participating SC insurers.

The insurance math is clear: Over 30 years, the insurance premium difference between a 3-tab shingle roof and a standing seam metal roof can exceed $30,000-$60,000. This alone can pay for the difference in material cost. When you factor in the avoided replacement costs, metal roofing can be less expensive than asphalt over the life of the roof -- even though it costs 2-3x more upfront.

The roofing industry is changing faster than at any point in the past two decades. Here is what I am seeing across the Grand Strand and the broader market in 2026:

What Is Gaining Popularity

• Standing seam metal on residential homes: Five years ago, metal was rare on residential homes in Myrtle Beach. Now I install more metal roofs than ever -- homeowners are prioritizing hurricane protection and long-term savings over upfront cost. Insurance savings are the tipping point for most of them.
• Impact-resistant shingles: Class 4 impact-resistant shingles (like Owens Corning Duration FLEX or GAF Armor Shield II) are becoming the standard recommendation for coastal SC. The insurance discounts make them nearly the same net cost as standard shingles.
• Solar integration: Solar shingles are moving from novelty to practical consideration. With the 30% federal tax credit still available through 2032 and SC net metering, the payback period is shortening. GAF Energy's Timberline Solar is making solar accessible through standard roofing contractors.
• Synthetic slate and shake: Products like DaVinci Roofscapes and CeDUR are capturing the premium market. They deliver the aesthetic of natural materials without the weight, and their impact resistance is a major selling point for coastal homeowners.

What Is Declining

• 3-tab shingles: Most major manufacturers are reducing their 3-tab product lines. GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are all shifting production toward architectural shingles. 3-tab will likely be discontinued within the next decade.
• Wood shake: Fire codes, insurance restrictions, and maintenance costs are making wood shake increasingly impractical. Synthetic alternatives offer the same look without the risks.
• Standard EPDM on commercial: White TPO and PVC membranes are overtaking black EPDM as energy codes tighten and building owners prioritize cooling cost reduction.

What to Watch in 2026 and Beyond

• Cool roofing requirements: Energy codes are increasingly requiring reflective roofing surfaces. This favors metal, TPO, and cool-colored shingles over dark-colored traditional materials.
• Insurance-driven material choices: As coastal SC insurance premiums continue to rise, expect more homeowners to choose materials based on insurance impact rather than just aesthetics or upfront cost. The days of choosing a roof purely on looks are ending.
• Recyclability: Sustainable roofing materials (recyclable metal, recycled-content shingles) are gaining traction as landfill costs increase and environmental awareness grows. Metal roofing is 100% recyclable at end of life.