What Is the Best Roofing for South Carolina Homes?

The best roofing for South Carolina homes depends heavily on the region where you live, because each part of the state faces different weather challenges.

Coastal areas like Charleston, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach must withstand salt air, hurricanes, and humidity, while inland and Upstate regions such as Greenville, Columbia, and Spartanburg face hot summers, thunderstorms, hail, and occasional winter freezes.

Because of these regional differences, the best roofing material is not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Roofing Needs in Coastal South Carolina

Climate Challenges

The Lowcountry and coastal regions experience some of the harshest roofing conditions in the state. Salt air accelerates corrosion, hurricane winds test the strength of materials, and heavy rainfall makes water intrusion a real risk. On top of this, the intense summer heat can damage weaker roofing systems.

Roofing Comparison by Region

Best Options for Coastal Homes

GAF Metal Shingle Roofing

GAF metal shingles are one of the top recommendations for coastal homes. Metal roofing resists wind uplift and handles hurricane-force conditions far better than traditional materials. Coated metal also provides strong resistance against salt air corrosion, making it ideal for Charleston, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach. Its reflective surface reduces cooling costs during hot, sunny summers, improving overall energy efficiency.

Union Corrugating Metal Roofing

For homeowners prioritizing maximum durability, Union Corrugating metal roofing is another excellent choice. It is engineered to withstand impacts, resist rust, and handle extreme weather, including hurricanes. This makes it perfect for coastal homes exposed to strong winds and high moisture.

Owens Corning Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles can be used in coastal areas but should be high-quality, impact-resistant models specifically designed with high wind ratings. While more affordable, asphalt shingles generally do not last as long in coastal conditions compared to metal roofing.

Coastal Recommendation

For South Carolina’s coastal homes, metal roofing is the strongest and most reliable option. GAF and Union Corrugating products deliver superior resistance to wind, salt, and storms, while asphalt shingles should only be considered if they are premium-grade and properly reinforced.

Roofing Needs in Inland South Carolina (Columbia and Midlands)

Climate Challenges

The Midlands region, including Columbia, faces long, hot summers with high humidity. Thunderstorms are frequent, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. This region is less prone to hurricanes but still requires roofing that performs well under heat and sudden storms.

Best Options for Inland Homes

Owens Corning Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles from Owens Corning are an excellent choice for Columbia and other inland areas. They balance affordability with durability and provide reliable protection against heat and storms. Modern asphalt shingles are also available with algae-resistant technology to combat humidity-related staining.

GAF Metal Shingle Roofing

Metal roofing is a great premium option in Columbia, offering longer lifespan and better energy efficiency. The reflective properties of GAF metal shingles help reduce cooling costs during the hottest months. Metal’s durability also ensures protection from heavy rains and wind gusts.

Union Corrugating Metal Roofing

For homeowners looking for added durability and energy efficiency, Union Corrugating roofing is a strong option in the Midlands as well. Its resistance to severe weather and long lifespan make it a valuable long-term investment.

Inland Recommendation

In Columbia and other inland areas, Owens Corning asphalt shingles provide excellent value and performance for most homeowners. However, metal roofing is the better choice for those willing to make a higher upfront investment for energy savings and longevity.

Roofing Needs in Upstate South Carolina (Greenville, Spartanburg, Foothills)

Climate Challenges

The Upstate region has a mix of weather patterns—hot summers, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and occasional winter freezes. Unlike the coast, hurricane winds are less of a concern, but impact resistance and versatility are important here.

Best Options for Upstate Homes

Owens Corning Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Owens Corning shingles perform very well in the Upstate. They are cost-effective, withstand hail with the right impact-resistant grade, and handle temperature fluctuations between hot summers and cold winter nights. Asphalt shingles also complement the diverse architectural styles in Greenville and Spartanburg.

GAF Metal Shingle Roofing

Metal roofing is a premium option for Upstate homes. It provides superior hail resistance, reduces cooling costs in summer, and offers a long lifespan. For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, GAF metal shingles deliver excellent value.

Union Corrugating Metal Roofing

Union Corrugating metal roofing offers maximum durability for homeowners who want the strongest protection available. While more common in storm-prone coastal areas, it is also highly effective against hail and severe Upstate weather.

Upstate Recommendation

For Greenville, Spartanburg, and surrounding Upstate communities, Owens Corning asphalt shingles are a dependable, budget-friendly choice. However, metal roofing from GAF or Union Corrugating provides superior longevity and storm resistance for those prioritizing long-term protection.

Cost Considerations Across South Carolina

Owens Corning Asphalt Shingles

• Lifespan: 20–30 years
• Most affordable upfront
• Reliable for inland and Upstate regions
• Requires premium models for coastal homes

Owens Corning asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing option for South Carolina homeowners, making them a popular choice across the state. With a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, they provide reliable protection at a price point that fits most budgets. For homeowners in inland and Upstate regions—such as Columbia, Greenville, and Spartanburg—these shingles are particularly effective, offering dependable resistance against heat, thunderstorms, and even occasional hail.

However, in coastal areas where hurricanes, salt air, and heavy rains are common, homeowners should consider premium, impact-resistant models with higher wind ratings. These upgraded versions cost more than standard asphalt shingles but provide the durability needed to handle harsher Lowcountry conditions. Overall, Owens Corning shingles deliver an excellent balance of value and performance, especially for those looking for a cost-conscious yet dependable roofing system.

GAF Metal Shingles

• Lifespan: 40–70 years
• Higher upfront cost but lower long-term costs
• Energy-efficient in hot summers
• Excellent for coastal and inland regions

GAF metal shingles fall into the mid-to-premium price range, but their long-term benefits often outweigh the higher initial investment. With a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, these shingles last two to three times longer than asphalt, meaning homeowners may only need to replace their roof once in a lifetime. This durability, combined with their energy efficiency, makes them especially attractive in South Carolina’s hot, humid summers. Metal roofing reflects sunlight, helping to reduce cooling costs and improve year-round comfort indoors.

These shingles perform well in both coastal and inland regions. On the coast, they resist salt air corrosion and stand up to hurricane-force winds, while inland they provide excellent resilience against heavy storms and hail. For homeowners looking for a stylish roof with long-lasting value and reduced energy bills, GAF metal shingles are a smart, forward-thinking investment.

Union Corrugating Metal Roofing

• Lifespan: 50+ years
• Premium cost, maximum protection
• Best for hurricane-prone coastal homes
• Also valuable for long-term Upstate protection

Union Corrugating metal roofing represents the premium end of the roofing spectrum, both in cost and performance. With a lifespan that often exceeds 50 years, this roofing option offers unmatched durability and weather resistance. The upfront cost is higher than both asphalt shingles and GAF metal shingles, but for coastal homeowners in hurricane-prone regions such as Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head, the added expense is often worth it. This roofing system provides maximum protection against high winds, impacts, and salt air corrosion, making it the strongest defense available for homes near the coast.

Union Corrugating roofing is also valuable for homeowners in the Upstate who want long-term security and protection against severe weather and hail. While the premium price tag may be a hurdle, the exceptional longevity and minimal maintenance make it a strong financial decision for those who plan to remain in their home for decades. Over time, the reduced need for replacement and repairs can make Union Corrugating roofing a cost-effective option despite its higher initial price.

Final Thoughts

The best roofing for South Carolina homes depends on your region. For coastal areas, metal roofing from GAF or Union Corrugating provides unmatched resistance to hurricanes, salt air, and storms. For inland regions like Columbia, Owens Corning asphalt shingles deliver affordability and performance, while metal is an excellent upgrade for energy savings. For the Upstate, asphalt shingles are a practical and durable option, but homeowners seeking longer lifespans and hail resistance will benefit from investing in metal roofing. With these tailored solutions, South Carolina homeowners can make confident choices that protect their homes and enhance curb appeal.

If you’re ready to upgrade your roof and protect your home from South Carolina’s diverse weather conditions, Home Genius Exteriors can help. We offer expert installation of Owens Corning asphalt shingles, GAF metal shingles, and Union Corrugating metal roofing, ensuring your roof is durable, efficient, and built to last. Contact Home Genius Exteriors today to schedule your consultation and find the best roofing solution for your South Carolina home.