Metal vs. Shingle Roofing: Which Is Better?

When it’s time to replace your roof, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between metal and asphalt shingle roofing. While both are popular options, the long-term value—financially and functionally—can vary greatly depending on your home’s location, budget, and future plans. At Carolina Custom Contractors, we help Myrtle Beach homeowners make informed roofing decisions. Replacing a roof can be a large purchase, and you want to make sure you get the most of your renovation.

It’s important to remember that both can be great options! Most of the differences rely on location, price range, and personal style. However, as the homeowner, you make the ultimate decision. Carolina Custom Contractors are here to help when you’re stuck. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each material to help you decide whether shingle roofing or metal materials are for you.

Initial Cost

Asphalt shingles are the most budget-friendly roofing material on the market. On average, asphalt shingle installation costs $4 to $7 per square foot, compared to $8 to $14 per square foot for metal roofing. If upfront cost is your main concern, shingles will win this round.

However, roofing is a long-term investment, and price alone shouldn’t be your deciding factor.

Lifespan

Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 25 years, depending on weather conditions and maintenance. This is an average lifespan for a common roof. Because of this, if you’re use to replacing your roof every other decade, you can still stick with shingle roofing. Metal roofing, however, can last 40 to 70 years with proper care. That’s double, or even triple, the life of a standard shingle roof.

In a coastal environment like Myrtle Beach, where salt air and strong storms can take a toll on roofing materials, the durability of metal can be a major advantage.

Maintenance

Asphalt shingles are more prone to cracking, curling, and algae growth, which means regular inspections and occasional replacements. With storm season very active in South Carolina and the Myrtle Beach area, it can cause additional damage to just overall age deterioration. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are resistant to rot, mildew, and fire—and are far less likely to require repairs over time. Plus, metal doesn’t make the best nesting place (or snack) for pests, meaning less of those too.

That said, metal roofs can dent from heavy impacts (like hail or falling branches), but these cases are relatively rare, especially with higher-grade materials.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect solar heat rather than absorb it, which can significantly reduce cooling costs during hot South Carolina summers. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, homeowners can save up to 25% on annual energy bills by installing a metal roof with reflective coatings.

Asphalt shingles, especially darker colors, absorb heat and can drive up your energy costs during peak summer months. However, this can be fought by simply installing solar panels on top of your shingles. In the end, it is a personal preference with more than one way to save money on your bills.

Curb Appeal: It Depends on Your Style

Asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of colors and textures, giving homeowners plenty of flexibility to match their home’s aesthetic. They work well with most architectural styles and blend in easily with neighborhood norms.

Metal roofs offer a sleek, modern look and are now available in more styles than ever before—including options that mimic shingles, slate, and even wood shakes. If you’re going for a contemporary coastal or farmhouse feel, metal might be the better fit.

So, Which Pays Off More?

If you’re staying in your home long-term and want maximum durability and energy efficiency, metal roofing is the smart investment. It costs more upfront, but pays off over time in lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and better resale value.

If you’re working within a tighter budget or plan to move within 10–15 years, asphalt shingles can still offer solid protection and curb appeal at a lower initial cost.

Thinking Asphalt Shingle Roofing? Maybe Metal? Let Carolina Custom Contractors Help

At Carolina Custom Contractors, we specialize in roofing solutions built for the Grand Strand’s coastal climate. Whether you’re considering metal or asphalt shingles, our team can walk you through the pros and cons specific to your home and budget.

Contact Carolina Custom Contractors today for expert roofing installation, inspections, or routine maintenance in the Myrtle Beach area. Click here for a free consultation so our team can get a better idea of your project!