When replacing your roof, you might wonder about your options. Homeowners often choose between shingle and metal roofing. It's common to find that metal roofing is more expensive than shingles.
So, why consider metal roofing?
Metal roofs are known for their durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance. But are they worth the cost?
We've talked to many homeowners about making the best decision for their roof replacement. If you want a long-lasting, beachy-looking roof that withstands extreme weather, a metal roof might be the right choice for your Myrtle Beach home.
Here are the main benefits of metal roofs:
- Long roof life
- Low maintenance
- High wind resistance
- Aesthetic appeal
Let’s talk about it!
Benefit #1 of a Metal Roofing System in Myrtle Beach: Long Roof Life
Undoubtedly, metal roofs last much longer than shingle roofs in the greater Myrtle Beach area. We have extreme weather here, whether it’s driving rain, wind, or hail, roofs in Myrtle Beach can take a beating. And if your goal is to have a roofing system that can hold up under these conditions, you may find that a metal roof is an incredible option for your home.
If longevity is your goal, a standing seam aluminum roof is going to be your best bet. However there are two types of metal roofs to choose from:
- Exposed Fastener Metal Roofs:
These roofing systems are held onto the roof deck with screws. While they can last a long time, they require a bit more maintenance than standing seam metal roofs. However, if an exposed fastener metal roof is well maintained, it can last up to 30 years.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs: These roofing systems are made of metal panels that lock together. Because there are no exposed fasteners on a standing seam metal roof, they can last up to 50 years with very little maintenance required.
Benefit #2 of a Metal Roofing System in Myrtle Beach: Low-Maintenance
If you’re not interested in going through the re-roofing ordeal again, you may find that a metal roof is worth the price. As a homeowner, roof work can be a real pain. Whether you're warding off pushy roofers or trying to reason with your insurance company, having a roof replacement on your home may not be something you want to do again anytime soon.
Which is why you may enjoy the safety and security of a long lasting metal roof. These roofing systems are not only more durable than shingles, they are also painted with a corrosion resistant coating to keep the raw metal protected from rust. I usually recommend yearly maintenance on all roof types because of the weather conditions we face each year. Usually, with a yearly maintenance check up, you can catch problems on a metal roof before they become pervasive.
It’s fairly common for homeowners to have sticker shock when they see the initial cost of a metal roof. But it’s not uncommon for homeowners to spend the same amount or more on shingle repairs and replacements over the lifespan of a shingle roof. Because metal roofs can hold up against extreme weather conditions like high wind speeds in Myrtle Beach, many homeowners here find that they are worth the investment on the front end to avoid racking up repair bills in the future.
Benefit #3 of a Metal Roofing System in Myrtle Beach: High Wind Resistance
As a hurricane-prone area, it is clear why homeowners in Myrtle Beach want a roofing material that can hold up in strong winds. I’ve found that standing seam metal roofs are an excellent option for homeowners who want the added peace of mind that they’re protected, even in strong winds. Depending on the install, you can get wind ratings exceeding 200mph with a standing seam metal roof.
While exposed fastener metal roofs are more resistant to strong winds than shingles, they can be more prone to wind damage than standing seam metal roofs. So, if you’re interested in an exposed fastener metal roof, you’ll want to be sure you stay on top of your yearly roof maintenance to ensure that your metal panels are secure and aesthetically pleasing.
Benefit #4 of a Metal Roofing System in Myrtle Beach: Aesthetics
Metal roofs have a distinct beachy look that garners the attention of coastal homeowners. Because Myrtle Beach is a coastal location, we see plenty of homes here that have adopted a beachy exterior look. Not only that, but shingle roofs tend to come in a variety of brown and gray color schemes, which may not align with every coastal homeowner’s aesthetic goals for their Myrtle Beach home. 
On the other hand, metal roofs come in a wide variety of colors, allowing homeowners to choose an option that they feel best suits their aesthetic preferences for their home. When it comes to preferences of any kind, it’s important that you get exactly what you want when you invest in any type of roofing material.
Are the Benefits of a Metal Roof Worth the Cost in Myrtle Beach, SC?
Large construction projects on your home can be quite expensive and stress inducing. Which is why it’s so important to make sure your choices are worth the financial investment and the time. And though it may seem a bit sales-y to say this, what really matters is the quality of the roof installation. Even if you choose the finest standing seam metal roof on the market, it can still fail if not installed with skill. So, you’ll definitely want to make sure you have a trusted roofer.
So, to answer your question. Are the benefits of a metal roof worth the cost? If you plan to pass your home down to your next generation or stay in your home for the next few decades, a metal roof is worth every penny. Not only will you save on repairs and replacements in the long-run, but you may even prevent your loved ones from having to replace your roof! Now that's what I call peace of mind.
But let’s say you don’t have these plans for your home or you’re not sure what the future holds. In this scenario I would recommend weighing the benefits against the problems of a metal roofing system before you make your final decision. Ultimately, if you don’t want to have much worry about your roof over the course of the next few decades, a metal roof is something to seriously consider.
Because this decision can be so unique for homeowners, we welcome your questions! We’re happy to give our transparent opinion on what may be most beneficial to you and your plans for the future of your home. We look forward to the opportunity to help you through this decision-making process!
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