Living near the water in Texas comes with its own perks—ocean breezes, beautiful views, and salty air. But if you own a home or business along the Gulf Coast, you know that coastal life also brings strong winds, humidity, hurricanes, and salty conditions that can put your roof to the test. One of the most common questions homeowners ask us at Texas Coast Roofing is this: “What’s better for my home—shingles or metal roofing?” The answer depends on your goals, budget, and how much abuse your roof is expected to take from the coastal environment. Let’s dive into the key differences and help you decide which option works best for your coastal property.
🧱 The Basics: What Are Shingle and Metal Roofs?
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S. They’re made of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules. Shingles are available in a variety of styles, from basic 3-tab to heavier architectural options that offer better wind and water resistance.
Metal roofing can include several types—standing seam panels, corrugated sheets, and metal shingles—usually made from steel or aluminum. These materials are coated to resist corrosion and designed to interlock for improved wind protection.
Both roofing systems are popular in Texas, but when you live on the coast, the stakes are higher. Let’s look at how they compare when faced with coastal challenges.
🌪️ Wind Resistance
The Gulf Coast is no stranger to tropical storms and hurricanes. That means your roof needs to be able to handle sustained winds and flying debris. In this category, metal roofing takes the lead.
Most metal roofing systems are rated to withstand 120 to 160 mph winds, depending on the installation method and panel type. Because the panels interlock and are securely fastened, there are fewer weak points for wind to lift.
High-quality asphalt shingles can also be wind-resistant, especially architectural or designer shingles rated for 110–130 mph winds. But shingles are more susceptible to being lifted, curled, or torn off over time—especially if they’re aging or poorly installed.
👉 Verdict: Metal roofing wins for superior wind resistance, especially in hurricane-prone zones.
🌊 Moisture & Salt Air Tolerance
Coastal environments are naturally humid, and that salty air can be brutal on your home’s exterior. Salt accelerates corrosion, which can eat away at roof fasteners, flashings, and even the roofing material itself.
Metal roofing is highly resistant to salt—if you choose the right type. Aluminum performs exceptionally well in salt-rich air because it doesn’t rust. Galvanized steel roofs can also last, but they need a high-quality coating (like Galvalume) and regular maintenance to prevent rusting.
Shingles, on the other hand, absorb moisture over time, especially if they lose their protective granule layer. While they don’t rust, they can develop algae, mold, and rot—particularly if water becomes trapped underneath.
👉 Verdict: Metal (especially aluminum) performs better in salty, moist environments.
🔥 Longevity and Lifespan
One of the biggest differences between shingles and metal roofs is how long they last.
- Asphalt shingles: 15–30 years (depending on product and climate)
- Metal roofing: 40–70+ years (especially with regular care)
Shingles have a shorter lifespan in coastal regions due to UV exposure, humidity, and frequent storms. The granules on shingles break down over time, exposing the asphalt base to the elements.
Metal roofs age slower and are more resistant to UV damage, mildew, and cracking. Many metal roofs outlast two or three rounds of shingle replacements.
👉 Verdict: Metal roofing is the clear winner for long-term value and durability.
💸 Cost Comparison
Let’s talk numbers.
- Shingle roofing is more budget-friendly upfront. It costs less in materials and labor and is faster to install.
- Metal roofing has a higher upfront price tag—sometimes 2 to 3 times more than shingles—but offers longer life and better performance.
If you plan to live in your home long-term, metal roofing may save you money over time by avoiding future replacements and minimizing storm damage. But if you’re looking for a quick, affordable solution (or planning to sell soon), shingles might be more practical.
👉 Verdict: Shingles win on upfront cost, but metal wins on long-term value.
🧰 Maintenance and Repairs
All roofs require some upkeep, but shingles generally need more frequent maintenance. You’ll need to check for missing shingles, granule loss, leaks, and algae growth—especially after storms.
Metal roofing, especially standing seam systems, is low-maintenance. It doesn’t rot, attract pests, or develop moss. Still, you should check for loose fasteners, corrosion on flashings, and ensure sealants around penetrations remain intact.
👉 Verdict: Metal roofing requires less frequent maintenance, saving you time and effort.
🌅 Aesthetic and Style Options
Modern roofing isn’t just about performance—it’s about curb appeal, too.
Shingles offer a traditional, textured look that works well with most home styles. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, including those that mimic slate or wood.
Metal roofing has come a long way in the style department. With options like standing seam, ribbed panels, and metal shingles that mimic tile or shake, metal can give your home a sleek, modern look—or a rustic coastal charm. Metal also reflects sunlight, which can help reduce cooling costs in the Texas heat.
👉 Verdict: Tie—both have great style options depending on your taste.
🧾 Insurance and Windstorm Certification
In many areas along the Texas coast, your roof must meet TDI (Texas Department of Insurance) requirements to qualify for windstorm insurance. Both shingle and metal roofs can meet these standards—but installation matters.
A shingle roof must be installed to code, with proper nailing patterns and materials approved for high-wind areas. A metal roof must use the right gauge, fastening system, and finish to be certified.
👉 **Verdict: Both can qualify for windstorm insurance if properly installed—**so choose a roofing company with coastal experience.
✅ So… Which Roofing Option Is Best by the Water?
It really depends on your priorities. Here’s a quick recap:
| Factor | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Wind Resistance | Metal |
| Salt Air Durability | Metal (Aluminum) |
| Longevity | Metal |
| Upfront Cost | Shingles |
| Maintenance | Metal |
| Aesthetics | Tie |
| Insurance Compliance | Both (if done right) |
If you want long-lasting performance, better storm protection, and don’t mind the higher investment, metal roofing is the best choice for coastal homes and businesses. But if you need a solid, affordable option with classic curb appeal, **shingles can still work—**as long as they’re high-quality and installed correctly.
At Texas Coast Roofing, we install both asphalt shingles and coastal-grade metal roofing systems that meet or exceed TDI standards. Whether you’re looking to upgrade, repair, or just plan ahead for hurricane season, our team is here to help you make the right decision for your roof—and your home.
📞 Have questions about which roof is right for your coastal property? Contact Texas Coast Roofing for a free consultation today!