Roof Material Comparison Guide
Compare 8 popular roofing materials side-by-side. Evaluate cost, lifespan, durability, energy efficiency, and more to find the perfect roof for your home.
Select Materials to Compare
Choose 2-4 materials
| Feature | Architectural | Standing Seam | Clay Tile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per Sq Ft | $4.50 - $7.00 | $10.00 - $18.00 | $12.00 - $25.00 |
| Lifespan | 25-30 years | 40-70 years | 50-100 years |
| Durability | 7/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Energy Efficiency | 5/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Low Maintenance | 7/10 | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Curb Appeal | 7/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Insurance Discount | Up to 5% | Up to 25% | Up to 15% |
| Warranty | 30 years | 50 years | 50 years |
| Wind Resistance | 110-130 mph | 140-180 mph | 125-150 mph |
| Fire Rating | Class A | Class A | Class A |
| Weight | Medium (3-4 lbs/sq ft) | Light (1-1.5 lbs/sq ft) | Heavy (8-12 lbs/sq ft) |
| Eco-Friendly | 4/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
Detailed Material Information
Architectural Shingles
Premium asphalt shingles with dimensional appearance. The most popular choice for modern homes.
Standing Seam Metal
Premium metal roofing with raised seams and hidden fasteners. The gold standard for metal roofing.
Clay Tile Roofing
Traditional terra cotta tiles popular in Spanish, Mediterranean, and Southwest architecture.
Need Help Choosing the Right Material?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best roofing material for South Carolina?▼
For South Carolina, architectural shingles and metal roofing are the most popular choices. Architectural shingles offer excellent value with good wind resistance for coastal areas. Metal roofing provides superior hurricane protection and energy efficiency, making it ideal for Myrtle Beach and other coastal communities.
What roofing material lasts the longest?▼
Natural slate roofing lasts the longest at 75-150+ years, followed by clay tile (50-100 years), standing seam metal (40-70 years), and concrete tile (40-75 years). While more expensive upfront, these materials often provide the best long-term value for homeowners planning to stay in their homes.
What is the most cost-effective roofing material?▼
3-tab asphalt shingles have the lowest upfront cost at $3.50-$5.50 per square foot. However, architectural shingles ($4.50-$7.00/sq ft) offer better long-term value with their longer lifespan and better warranty. For the best lifetime value, metal roofing often wins due to its 50+ year lifespan.
Which roofing material is best for hurricanes?▼
Standing seam metal roofing offers the best hurricane protection with wind resistance ratings of 140-180 mph. Architectural shingles rated for 110-130 mph are also suitable for most coastal areas. Impact-resistant shingles provide added protection against hail and debris.
Do different roofing materials affect home insurance rates?▼
Yes, significantly. Impact-resistant materials like standing seam metal can reduce insurance premiums by 15-35% in coastal South Carolina. New roofs of any type typically qualify for 5-10% discounts, while Class 4 impact-resistant shingles can add another 15-20% savings.
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