Asphalt vs Metal Roofing: The Complete Comparison Guide
Make the right roofing decision for your Myrtle Beach home. Compare lifespan, durability, energy efficiency, and true costs of asphalt shingles vs metal roofing.
Quick Answer: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Asphalt Shingles If:
- Budget is your primary concern
- You plan to sell within 10-15 years
- Your home is inland from the coast
- HOA restrictions limit metal options
Choose Metal Roofing If:
- You want a roof that lasts 50+ years
- Hurricane protection is a priority
- You want to reduce energy bills 20-25%
- You live near the ocean (salt air)
The Great Roofing Debate: Asphalt vs Metal
Choosing between asphalt shingles and metal roofing is one of the most significant decisions homeowners face when replacing their roof. In coastal South Carolina, this choice becomes even more critical due to our unique climate challenges: hurricanes, salt air corrosion, intense humidity, and punishing UV exposure.
At Weather Shield Roofing, we install both asphalt and metal roofing systems throughout Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. After completing thousands of installations, we have deep insight into how each material performs in our coastal environment. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the real differences between these roofing materials so you can make an informed decision for your home.
The truth is, neither material is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your budget, timeline, location, and priorities. Some homeowners are better served by quality asphalt shingles, while others will benefit significantly from investing in metal roofing. Let us walk you through every factor that matters.
Quick Comparison: Asphalt vs Metal Roofing
Lifespan Comparison: 15-25 Years vs 50-70 Years
Asphalt Shingle Lifespan
- 3-Tab Shingles: 12-18 years coastal
- Architectural Shingles: 18-25 years coastal
- Premium Shingles: 20-30 years coastal
Note: Coastal lifespans are 25-30% shorter than inland due to salt air, humidity, and UV exposure.
Metal Roofing Lifespan
- Corrugated Metal: 30-50 years
- Standing Seam Steel: 50-60 years
- Aluminum Standing Seam: 70+ years
- Copper/Zinc: 80-100+ years
Metal roofing often outlasts the building structure itself.
The lifespan difference between asphalt and metal roofing is the single most important factor in the long-term value comparison. A homeowner who installs asphalt shingles will typically need to replace their roof 2-3 times during the same period a single metal roof would last.
In Myrtle Beach specifically, asphalt shingle lifespans are reduced by our coastal environment. The combination of salt air, 70-80% humidity, intense UV radiation, and occasional hurricane impacts causes shingles to degrade faster than manufacturer warranties suggest. We regularly see asphalt roofs needing replacement at 15-18 years in oceanfront communities.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Asphalt Shingles: Weather Performance
- Shingles can crack in extreme cold
- Granule loss from UV and storms
- Algae growth common in humid climates
- Impact-resistant options available
Metal Roofing: Weather Performance
- 140-180 mph wind ratings
- Class 4 impact resistance available
- Aluminum naturally resists corrosion
- Kynar coatings last 30-40 years
For South Carolina homeowners in hurricane territory, weather resistance is paramount. Metal roofing excels in every weather category that matters for our coastal climate. Standing seam metal with concealed fasteners provides superior wind uplift resistance because there are no exposed edges for wind to catch. During Hurricane Florence (2018) and Hurricane Ian (2022), metal roofs in our service area consistently outperformed asphalt shingle roofs.
Asphalt shingles can still provide adequate protection when properly installed with enhanced wind resistance features like 6-nail fastening patterns and starter strips. However, even premium asphalt shingles cannot match the absolute wind resistance of mechanical-seam standing seam metal roofing.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Asphalt Shingles
- Absorbs 80-95% of solar heat
- Attic temperatures: 140-170 degrees F in summer
- Energy savings: 5-10% with cool-roof options
Light-colored asphalt shingles with reflective granules can improve efficiency, but still absorb significantly more heat than metal.
Metal Roofing
- Reflects 70% of solar radiation
- Attic temperatures: 30-50 degrees F cooler
- Energy savings: 20-25% on cooling costs
ENERGY STAR certified metal roofing qualifies for federal tax credits and utility rebates in South Carolina.
In Myrtle Beach, where air conditioning runs 6-8 months per year, the energy efficiency difference between asphalt and metal roofing translates to substantial savings. Metal roofing with reflective coatings dramatically reduces the heat load on your home by reflecting solar energy rather than absorbing it.
The 20-25% reduction in cooling costs adds up significantly over the life of a metal roof. For a home spending around a typical amount annually on summer cooling, metal roofing can provide meaningful savings each year. Over 50 years, this energy savings alone can offset a significant portion of the higher initial investment in metal roofing.
Maintenance Requirements
Asphalt Shingle Maintenance
- AnnualProfessional inspection and debris removal
- As NeededReplace cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Every 3-5 YearsAlgae/moss treatment in humid climates
- Post-StormInspection for hail damage, wind damage
- OngoingGutter cleaning to prevent granule buildup
Metal Roofing Maintenance
- AnnualVisual inspection (can be DIY)
- As NeededRinse with garden hose to remove debris
- Every 10+ YearsCheck sealants around penetrations
- RareTouch-up paint on scratches (if any)
Metal roofing requires significantly less maintenance over its lifespan.
Insurance Discounts and Resale Value
Insurance Considerations
0-5% discount for impact-resistant Class 4 shingles. Standard shingles typically receive no discount.
10-35% premium discount due to Class A fire rating, Class 4 impact resistance, and superior wind resistance.
In coastal South Carolina where insurance premiums are high, these discounts can represent significant annual savings.
Resale Value Impact
Increases home value 1-3%. New roof is expected by buyers; limited differentiation from competitors.
Increases home value 1-6%. Seen as premium upgrade. Transferable 50-year warranty appeals to buyers.
In coastal markets, buyers specifically seek homes with storm-resistant features, making metal roofing a strong selling point.
Environmental Impact
Asphalt Shingles
- Petroleum-based product, non-renewable materials
- 11 million tons of shingles reach landfills annually in the US
- Limited recycling options (some areas have programs)
- 2-3 roof replacements multiply environmental impact
- Recycled content options available from some manufacturers
Metal Roofing
- Often contains 25-95% recycled content
- 100% recyclable at end of life
- One installation lasts 50-70+ years
- Reduces energy consumption 20-25%
- Can be installed over existing roof, reducing waste
Aesthetic Options and Curb Appeal
Asphalt Shingle Styles
- 3-Tab Shingles: Traditional flat appearance, most economical
- Architectural/Dimensional: Multi-layer, shadowed effect, most popular
- Designer/Luxury: Mimics slate, shake, or tile appearance
- Colors: Dozens of options from black to beige to blue-gray
Asphalt shingles offer the widest variety of colors and profiles, fitting virtually any architectural style.
Metal Roofing Styles
- Standing Seam: Sleek, modern vertical lines
- Metal Shingles: Mimic traditional shingles, slate, or shake
- Stone-Coated Steel: Textured appearance like tile or wood
- Corrugated: Classic ribbed profile, rustic or industrial
- Colors: 40+ colors with fade-resistant Kynar coatings
Modern metal roofing can match almost any home style, from traditional to contemporary.
A common misconception is that metal roofing looks industrial or commercial. Today's metal roofing comes in styles that beautifully complement traditional homes, coastal cottages, modern designs, and everything in between. Stone-coated metal shingles are virtually indistinguishable from traditional materials but with far superior performance. Learn more about metal roofing options available for your home.
When to Choose Each Material
Choose Asphalt Shingles When:
- Budget is the priorityLower upfront investment for quality protection
- You will sell within 10-15 yearsQuality shingles provide excellent value for medium-term ownership
- HOA restricts metal roofingSome communities require traditional roofing appearance
- You live inland from the coastReduced salt air exposure extends shingle life
Choose Metal Roofing When:
- You want a forever roof50-70 year lifespan means one roof for life
- Hurricane protection matters most140-180 mph wind ratings for ultimate storm safety
- Energy savings are important20-25% reduction in cooling costs adds up significantly
- You live near the oceanAluminum and coated steel resist salt air corrosion
Our Recommendation for Coastal South Carolina
After installing thousands of roofs in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, and throughout the Grand Strand, our recommendation is clear:
For oceanfront and near-coast properties: Aluminum standing seam metal roofing
The combination of hurricane resistance, salt air durability, and energy efficiency makes metal the smart choice for properties within 1-2 miles of the ocean.
For inland properties: Quality architectural shingles OR metal roofing
Both materials perform well when you are further from salt air exposure. The choice depends on your budget, timeline, and priorities.
Need help deciding? We offer free consultations where we assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations. We install both materials expertly, so our only goal is helping you make the right choice for your home.
Call (843) 877-5539 for Expert AdviceFrequently Asked Questions
Is a metal roof worth it over asphalt shingles?+
How much more does a metal roof cost compared to asphalt?+
Which roof is better for hurricanes: metal or asphalt?+
Do metal roofs make the house hotter?+
How long does asphalt shingle roofing last in coastal South Carolina?+
Are metal roofs noisy when it rains?+
Will a metal roof interfere with cell phone or internet signals?+
Can I put a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles?+
Which roof type increases home resale value more?+
What is the best roofing material for Myrtle Beach homes?+
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