Three main roofing materials — shingle, metal, and tile/slate. Here’s the honest breakdown on each, and what we recommend for most Oklahoma homeowners.
Shingles
Pros: Most economic options can be 50% cheaper than metal. Fast installation, typically 1-3 days. There are many styles and colors to choose from. Easy to repair. Cons: Absorbs heat instead of reflecting it. Some shingles only carry a warranty of 150 -160 mph wind warranty, which is needed for Oklahoma. Life span of 25-50 years, though storm-prone regions can cut that in half.
Metal
Pros: Holds up to the elements better than shingles. Reflect heat instead of absorbing it. Lasts 40-70 years. Cons: Installation takes 1-2 weeks versus 1-3 days. can easily double the cost of a shingle roof. Harder and more expensive to repair — requires skilled labor.
Tile or Slate
Pros: The tile itself can last well over 100 years. Looks unlike anything else. Cons: Most expensive of the three. Significantly heavier — may require additional structural support. Very few contractors can work on them, which makes repairs harder to find and more expensive.
Recommendation
For most homeowners in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, a quality dimensional shingle is the right call — best balance of cost, durability, and protection against Oklahoma’s weather. Metal is worth considering if you’re planning to stay in the home long-term and want to invest once. Tiles and slate are beautiful but rarely practical for this region.
Call Green Country Roofing at (918) 607-7409 and we’ll walk you through what makes sense for your home and budget.