Living near the coast or in a humid climate like Mississippi comes with perks—lush greenery, warm air, and beautiful sunsets. But for your home’s roof? It’s a different story.

High humidity, frequent storms, and salt-laden air can wear down roofing systems faster than in drier areas. That’s why choosing the right materials—and more importantly, the right professionals—is critical for long-lasting protection. Whether you're installing a new roof or replacing an old one, the right Roofing Contractor and Waterproofing Contractor can make all the difference.

Let’s explore what you need to know before putting asphalt shingles on your coastal or humid-climate home.

Climate Challenges: Why Roofing Systems Fail Faster Near the Coast

Humid and coastal regions present unique environmental challenges that directly impact roofing materials, especially fasteners like nails. Here’s what your roof is up against:

High humidity: Promotes mold, mildew, and rot on roof decking.
Salt air: Accelerates corrosion of metal components like nails and flashing.
Heavy rain: Increases the risk of water intrusion through even the smallest gaps.
High winds: Common in coastal storms, these can lift poorly fastened shingles.

In these conditions, small details like nail material and sealing techniques become crucial—not optional.

The Right Nail Material for Humid Climates

Roofing nails are often overlooked, but in coastal areas, using the wrong type can lead to premature roof failure. A qualified Roofing Contractor will recommend and use only corrosion-resistant nails, including:

Stainless Steel Nails: Best choice for extreme humidity and salt exposure. More expensive, but worth the long-term protection.
Hot-Dipped Galvanized Nails: A cost-effective option that resists rust in moderately humid environments.
Avoid: Electro-galvanized or aluminum nails in coastal areas—they’re prone to rust and deterioration over time.

Nails that corrode will lose holding strength, leading to shingle blow-offs, leaks, and ultimately, costly repairs.

Why Waterproofing Matters Even More Here

In high-humidity areas, it’s not just about keeping water out during storms—it’s also about preventing moisture buildup from daily humidity.

A qualified Waterproofing Contractor uses a multi-layered approach to keep your roof watertight:

Synthetic Underlayment: Provides a moisture barrier under the shingles.
Ice and Water Shields: Installed in valleys, around chimneys, and at eaves to stop water intrusion in vulnerable spots.
Proper Flashing Installation: Metal flashing must be rust-resistant and sealed tightly with compatible adhesives.

When your waterproofing layer is compromised, even perfectly nailed shingles can’t protect your home.

Don’t Overlook Nail Placement and Driving Technique

Even the best nail won’t work if it’s not installed properly. A licensed Roofing Contractor knows that in coastal zones:

Nails must be driven flush—not overdriven or underdriven.
Each shingle typically requires six nails (instead of four) to meet wind-uplift resistance standards.
Nails must be placed directly in the nailing strip to create a watertight seal between layers.

Shingles nailed too high or too low are vulnerable to wind and water. That's why professional precision matters more than ever in humid regions.

Choosing the Right Contractor: What to Look For

Not all contractors understand the added complexity of humid and coastal climates. When hiring, ask:

Do you use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails?
What type of underlayment and sealants do you use?
How do you ensure manufacturer warranty compliance?
Are your team members trained in wind-zone code requirements?

A trustworthy Roofing Contractor and Waterproofing Contractor will be happy to answer—and show proof of materials and code compliance.

Why DIY and Budget Contractors Can Cost You More

It might be tempting to go with the cheapest estimate or try a DIY repair, but here’s what could go wrong in coastal climates:

Using nails that rust in under a year
Incorrect nailing pattern or placement
Missing or improperly installed flashing
Inadequate sealing at roof penetrations (vents, skylights, chimneys)
Void roofing warranty due to non-compliant installation

Paying a little more for an experienced local contractor protects your investment long-term.

Protecting Your Investment: Think Long-Term

The combination of hot, humid summers, salty air, and frequent rainfall in places like Hattiesburg or Petal, MS, can take a serious toll on roofing materials. That’s why you can’t afford shortcuts. Every part of your roofing system—from the nails to the flashing—must be built to resist moisture and corrosion.

The right Roofing Contractor ensures proper installation, ventilation, and fastening. The right Waterproofing Contractor guarantees that water stays out—no matter the season.

Conclusion

In humid and coastal climates, roof protection starts long before the first shingle goes on. Nail material, placement, waterproofing techniques, and contractor expertise all play critical roles in the performance and lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof.

Don’t let your roof be your home’s weak spot. If you live in Sumrall, Petal, Purvis, or Hattiesburg, MS, trust the local pros who understand your climate. Call Matlock Roofing & Construction at 601-299-4219 to schedule a consultation with a trusted Roofing Contractor and Waterproofing Contractor today.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing in Humid and Coastal Climates: What You Need to Know