Best Roofing Materials for
Myrtle Beach, SC
The complete guide to choosing roofing materials that withstand coastal hurricanes, salt air corrosion, and South Carolina's intense humidity and UV exposure.
Why Material Choice Matters in Coastal South Carolina
Choosing the right roofing material for a Myrtle Beach home is not the same as choosing for an inland property. The South Carolina coast presents a unique combination of environmental challenges that can reduce a standard roof's lifespan by 25-40% compared to inland installations. Understanding these challenges is essential for making an informed decision that protects your home and investment for decades to come.
At Weather Shield Roofing, we have installed thousands of roofs across the Grand Strand region since 2010. We have seen firsthand which materials thrive in our coastal environment and which fail prematurely. This comprehensive guide shares our expertise to help you choose the best roofing material for your specific situation, whether you live oceanfront in Cherry Grove or inland in Conway.
The materials that perform best in Myrtle Beach share common characteristics: exceptional wind resistance for hurricane season, corrosion resistance against salt air, durability against intense UV exposure, and resistance to the algae and mold growth that thrives in our humid climate. Let us explore each factor in detail and compare how different roofing materials measure up.
Climate Challenges in Myrtle Beach
Understanding the unique environmental factors that affect roofing performance in coastal South Carolina
Salt Air Corrosion
Ocean salt travels up to 3 miles inland and accelerates corrosion of metal fasteners, flashing, and uncoated steel. Properties within 1,500 feet of the ocean experience the most severe effects, requiring marine-grade materials and stainless steel fasteners.
Hurricane-Force Winds
Myrtle Beach lies in ASCE 7 wind zone with design speeds of 140+ mph. Hurricane season (June-November) brings the risk of Category 3-5 storms. Roofing materials must resist wind uplift, and installation techniques are as critical as material selection.
High Humidity
Average humidity of 70-80% creates ideal conditions for algae, mold, and mildew growth on roofing surfaces. This is especially problematic for asphalt shingles without algae-resistant treatment. Humidity also accelerates deterioration of organic materials.
Intense UV Exposure
South Carolina receives 215+ sunny days per year with intense UV radiation. This breaks down asphalt compounds, fades colors, and degrades adhesives. Roofing materials need UV-resistant coatings or natural resistance to maintain integrity.
Roofing Material Comparison Table
Compare the performance of popular roofing materials in Myrtle Beach's coastal climate
| Material | Hurricane Rating | Salt Resistance | Lifespan (Coastal) | Energy Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal (Standing Seam) | Excellent (180+ mph) | Excellent* | 50-70 years | Excellent |
| Asphalt (Architectural) | Good (130 mph) | Good | 20-30 years | Fair |
| Concrete/Clay Tile | Excellent** | Superior | 50-100 years | Very Good |
| TPO/Flat Roofing | Good | Excellent | 15-25 years | Excellent |
* Metal requires Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 coating and stainless steel fasteners for full salt resistance
** Tile requires hurricane clips and proper structural support
Best for Hurricane Resistance
Hurricane resistance is the single most important factor for Myrtle Beach homeowners. A roof that fails during a hurricane can lead to catastrophic damage to your entire home. Here is our ranking of roofing materials by hurricane performance:
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing is the gold standard for hurricane resistance. The concealed fastener system eliminates the weak points found in exposed fastener systems. Panels mechanically interlock and can withstand sustained winds of 140-180 mph when properly installed. During Hurricane Florence (2018), homes with standing seam metal roofs in the Myrtle Beach area experienced minimal to no roof damage while neighboring homes with asphalt shingles suffered significant losses.
Concrete and Clay Tile
Tile roofing offers excellent hurricane resistance when installed with proper hurricane clips. The weight of tile (900-1,100 lbs per 100 sq ft) helps resist wind uplift. Individual tiles may crack from flying debris, but the damage is typically localized and easily repaired. Concrete tile outperforms clay in impact resistance. Both require structural reinforcement but provide exceptional long-term hurricane protection.
Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles
Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles provide good hurricane protection at a fraction of the cost of metal or tile. Look for shingles rated for 130+ mph winds with enhanced nailing patterns (6 nails per shingle instead of 4). Brands like GAF Timberline HDZ and CertainTeed Landmark Pro have performed well in coastal South Carolina. These shingles also resist hail damage and qualify for insurance discounts.
TPO and Flat Roofing
For flat and low-slope commercial roofs, fully adhered TPO or EPDM systems provide reasonable hurricane resistance. The key is proper adhesion without air pockets that can allow wind uplift. Mechanically fastened systems are more vulnerable in high winds. TPO performs better than modified bitumen in hurricane zones due to its flexibility and strength at seams.
Best for Longevity
Coastal conditions reduce roofing lifespans compared to inland installations. Here is how long you can expect different materials to last in Myrtle Beach with proper installation and maintenance:
Concrete and Clay Tile
50-100 YearsTile roofing is virtually immune to coastal degradation. It does not corrode, does not absorb moisture, and is unaffected by UV radiation. The underlayment beneath tile may need replacement at 25-30 years, but the tiles themselves can last a century or more. This makes tile the best choice for homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term.
Metal Roofing (Standing Seam)
50-70 YearsAluminum standing seam roofing can last 70+ years because aluminum naturally resists corrosion. Steel with Kynar 500 coating provides 50-60 years of service. The finish warranty typically covers 30-40 years while the structural warranty covers 50+ years. Metal roofing outlasts most homes and often only needs to be installed once.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
20-30 YearsHigh-quality architectural shingles rated for 30-50 years in manufacturer testing typically last 20-30 years in coastal South Carolina. The combination of UV exposure, humidity, and salt air accelerates granule loss and deterioration. Budget for roof replacement every 20-25 years if choosing asphalt shingles for a coastal property.
TPO and Flat Roofing
15-25 YearsTPO roofing typically lasts 15-25 years in coastal environments. White TPO reflects UV radiation and resists heat damage, extending lifespan. Regular inspections are essential as ponding water and seam separation can cause premature failure. Quality installation is critical for maximizing flat roof longevity.
Best for Energy Efficiency
With South Carolina's hot summers and rising energy costs, roofing material choice significantly impacts your cooling bills. Here is how different materials compare for energy efficiency:
Metal with Cool Coating
Reflects up to 70% of solar radiation. Reduces attic temperatures by 30-50 degrees. Lowers cooling costs by 20-25%.
White TPO Roofing
Highly reflective white surface. Excellent for flat commercial roofs. Energy Star certified options available.
Concrete/Clay Tile
Thermal mass absorbs and slowly releases heat. Natural ventilation gap beneath tiles. Light colors perform best.
Asphalt Shingles
Dark colors absorb heat. Reflective granules available for improvement. Proper ventilation is essential.
* With reflective/"cool" shingle options. Standard dark shingles provide minimal energy savings.
Best for Budget
While initial cost matters, the true cost of roofing should be calculated over the roof's expected lifespan. Here is how different materials compare for budget-conscious homeowners:
Lifetime Cost Comparison (2,000 sq ft roof over 50 years)
Note: This comparison includes installation, maintenance, energy savings, and insurance discounts. Actual costs vary by specific materials and installation requirements.
Our Budget Recommendation
For budget-conscious homeowners, Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles offer the best balance of upfront cost and coastal performance. Look for algae-resistant formulations and high wind ratings. While you will need to replace the roof sooner than metal or tile, the insurance discounts and reasonable initial cost make this an attractive option for many Myrtle Beach homeowners.
Our Expert Recommendation
After 15+ years of installing roofs across the Grand Strand, our recommendation for most Myrtle Beach homeowners is clear:
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing provides the best combination of hurricane resistance, longevity, energy efficiency, and long-term value for coastal South Carolina homes. While the upfront investment is higher, you will likely never need another roof, you will save on energy and insurance, and you will have peace of mind during hurricane season.
For budget-conscious homeowners or those not planning to stay long-term, Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles are an excellent alternative that still provides solid coastal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers to common questions about roofing materials for coastal South Carolina
What is the best roofing material for hurricane-prone areas like Myrtle Beach?
How long do different roofing materials last in coastal South Carolina?
Is metal roofing worth the extra cost in Myrtle Beach?
What roofing material is most resistant to salt air corrosion?
Do I need special roofing materials if I live near the beach?
What is the most energy-efficient roofing material for hot South Carolina summers?
Can I get insurance discounts for certain roofing materials in South Carolina?
What roofing material requires the least maintenance in coastal areas?
Is tile roofing a good choice for Myrtle Beach homes?
What should I look for in a roofing contractor for coastal installation?
Ready to Choose the Right Roofing Material?
Schedule a free consultation with Weather Shield Roofing. Our coastal roofing experts will assess your home and recommend the best materials for your specific situation, budget, and hurricane protection needs.
Serving Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Carolina Forest, Surfside Beach, and the Grand Strand