March 27, 2026
The short answer: Neither metal nor shingles is universally “better.” The right choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and what matters most to you — longevity, upfront cost, or storm protection. Below, we break down every factor so you can make the best decision for your Summerville home.
Before we dive into the details, here is a quick overview of how metal and shingle roofing stack up against each other in the categories that matter most to Lowcountry homeowners.
| Factor | Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 40-70 years |
| Upfront Cost (per sq ft installed) | $3.50-$6.00 | $7.00-$14.00 |
| Wind Rating | Up to 130 mph (architectural) | Up to 140-160 mph (standing seam) |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate (reflective options available) | High (reflects solar heat, can reduce cooling costs 10-25%) |
| Noise in Rain | Quiet | Slightly louder (mitigated with proper underlayment) |
| Maintenance | Periodic inspections, occasional shingle replacement | Very low — occasional fastener checks |
| Resale Value | Expected by buyers; neutral impact | Can increase home value 1-6% |
| Insurance Impact | Standard rates | Potential discount of 5-35% depending on carrier |
| Hail Resistance | Class 3-4 (impact-resistant options) | Class 4 (standing seam) |
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in America for good reason. They are affordable, widely available, and come in dozens of styles and colors. For many Summerville homeowners, a quality shingle roof delivers excellent protection without breaking the bank.
As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor (ID #244515), Right Hand Roofing installs the Duration line of architectural shingles. Here is why we trust them for Lowcountry homes:
Metal roofing has surged in popularity across the Southeast, and for good reason. Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term often find that the higher upfront cost pays off through longevity, energy savings, and reduced maintenance.
Standing seam is the premium option in metal roofing. Panels run vertically from ridge to eave with raised seams that lock together. This design eliminates exposed fasteners, which means fewer potential leak points. Standing seam panels can handle winds of 140-160 mph when properly installed — a significant advantage during South Carolina hurricane season.
If you love the look of traditional shingles but want the durability of metal, metal shingles offer the best of both worlds. They are stamped to mimic the appearance of asphalt, slate, or wood shake while delivering metal’s longevity and wind resistance. Metal shingles are a popular choice for homeowners in Summerville’s historic neighborhoods who want performance without changing their home’s aesthetic.
Summerville sits in a climate that tests roofing materials in three major ways: humidity, hurricanes, and heat. Here is how each material handles those challenges.
Our average relative humidity hovers around 70-80% for much of the year. Asphalt shingles can develop algae and moss growth in these conditions, though algae-resistant options like Owens Corning Duration with StreakGuard help combat this. Metal roofing is naturally resistant to algae, mold, and rot, giving it an edge in our damp climate.
Summerville is no stranger to tropical storms and hurricanes. Architectural shingles rated for 130 mph winds perform well in most storms, but standing seam metal roofing rated at 140-160 mph provides an extra margin of safety. If you live in a particularly exposed area or your home has had past wind damage, metal may be the smarter choice.
South Carolina summers mean air conditioning runs almost constantly from May through September. Metal roofing with reflective coatings can lower attic temperatures by 20-30 degrees compared to dark asphalt shingles, translating to measurable savings on your electric bill. Over a 40-year lifespan, those savings add up significantly.
For a typical 2,000-square-foot Summerville home (approximately 25 roofing squares), here is what you can expect:
Notice that the cost per year of life is remarkably similar. Metal costs more upfront, but because it lasts roughly twice as long, the long-term investment often comes out even — or ahead when you factor in energy savings and insurance discounts.
A metal roof is worth it if you plan to stay in your home for 15 or more years, want maximum storm protection, or prioritize low maintenance and energy savings. If you are working with a tighter budget or plan to sell within 10 years, a quality asphalt shingle roof from Owens Corning delivers excellent value and performance.
Explore all of our roofing material options or learn more about the full roof replacement process to help make your decision.
Yes. Studies consistently show that metal roofing can increase home resale value by 1-6%. Buyers in the Lowcountry particularly appreciate the storm resistance and low maintenance that metal roofing provides. However, even a well-maintained asphalt shingle roof in good condition will not hurt your resale value.
Modern metal roof installations include solid decking and high-quality underlayment that significantly dampen rain noise. Most homeowners report that their metal roof is only marginally louder than shingles during heavy rain, and some say they cannot tell the difference at all. The “tin roof” noise people remember from old barns is not representative of today’s residential metal roofing.
In some cases, yes. Installing metal over existing shingles can save money on tear-off and disposal. However, it is not always advisable. We need to inspect the existing decking for rot or damage first. Adding a second layer also adds weight and can void certain warranties. We will give you an honest recommendation during your free inspection.
In the Summerville and greater Charleston area, you can expect quality architectural shingles to last 20-30 years with proper installation and ventilation. Extreme heat and UV exposure can shorten the lifespan of lower-quality shingles, which is one reason we exclusively install premium Owens Corning products.
Many South Carolina insurance carriers offer discounts for metal roofing, typically ranging from 5-35% depending on the carrier and the specific metal roofing system installed. Standing seam metal roofs with high wind ratings tend to get the best discounts. Contact your insurance agent for a specific quote before making your decision.
Solar panels can be installed on both metal and shingle roofs. Standing seam metal roofs actually make solar installation easier because panels can be clamped directly to the seams without penetrating the roof surface. With shingles, mounting brackets require drilling into the decking, which adds potential leak points that must be properly sealed.
Both can handle hail well if you choose the right products. Impact-resistant shingles (Class 4) are specifically designed to withstand hail. Metal roofing, particularly thicker-gauge standing seam, also earns Class 4 ratings. However, metal can show cosmetic dents from large hail even when the roof remains fully functional. Shingles may crack or lose granules, which affects their waterproofing ability.
Absolutely. Right Hand Roofing offers flexible financing options for both metal and shingle roof installations. Because a metal roof is a larger upfront investment, financing makes it accessible to more homeowners. We will walk you through your options during your consultation.
Every home is different. Roof pitch, existing structure, HOA requirements, and your personal priorities all play a role in the right choice. At Right Hand Roofing, we are not here to push you toward the most expensive option. We are here to help you make the smartest investment for your home and budget.
Call Tristan and the Right Hand Roofing team at (843) 696-9307 to schedule a free roof inspection and get a side-by-side estimate for both metal and shingle options. As a licensed South Carolina contractor (SC License #65625) and Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we bring the expertise to install either system the right way.
Professional roofing contractor serving Charleston, Summerville & the Lowcountry. Call (843) 696-9307
