The Roofing Equation in 2025
Here’s the hard truth: in 2025, roofing isn’t what it used to be. Between rising material costs, labor shortages, and the impact of steel and aluminum tariffs, homeowners and contractors alike are looking for the best bang for their buck when it comes to roofing materials.
Whether you're replacing a roof after storm damage or building new, choosing the right roofing material is more than just picking what looks good on the brochure. You need something that can handle Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather, offer long-term durability, and won’t drain your wallet in the process.
At Tier-One Roofing, we’ve spent years helping Tulsa homeowners make smart roofing decisions. This guide breaks down the most reliable, cost-effective materials on the market in 2025—so you can protect your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.
What to Look for in a Roofing Material (Especially in 2025)
Before diving into the top materials, let’s talk about what really matters when you’re making a choice:
Durability: Can it withstand wind, hail, heat, and cold without falling apart?
Cost Efficiency: What’s the upfront price—and what are the maintenance and replacement costs down the road?
Availability: With supply chain challenges still lingering, some materials are harder to get than others.
Energy Efficiency: Can it help reduce utility bills during Oklahoma’s hot summers and cold winters?
Lifespan: How long can you expect it to last?
Warranty Options: Does it come with a solid manufacturer warranty? (And does your installer back it up?)
1. Asphalt Shingles: Still the Most Popular, But Are They Smart in 2025?
Overview:
Asphalt shingles have been the go-to roofing material in America for decades. They’re affordable, widely available, and easy to install. In 2025, they still dominate the market—but rising oil prices (a core ingredient) are pushing costs up.
Pros:
Budget-friendly upfront cost
Simple installation and repair
Available in multiple colors and styles
Often comes with 25–30 year warranties
Cons:
Shorter lifespan (15–25 years depending on weather and material quality)
Susceptible to wind and hail damage
Prone to algae and mildew in humid conditions
Best For:
Budget-conscious homeowners needing a roof replacement right now without breaking the bank.
Tier-One Take:
We’re still installing asphalt shingles regularly, but we always walk our clients through impact-resistant upgrades, especially if insurance is involved. The price difference is small, but the performance difference is major.
2. Metal Roofing: Expensive Upfront, Big Savings Long-Term
Overview:
Metal roofs are having a moment—especially with all the talk about tariffs and supply issues. Despite being more expensive upfront, they’re extremely durable and can last 50 years or more when installed properly.
Pros:
Highly resistant to wind, fire, and hail
Energy-efficient (reflects heat in summer)
Very low maintenance
Often qualifies for insurance discounts
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Noisy in heavy rain unless properly insulated
May require specialty installers
Tariffs have pushed prices even higher in 2025
Best For:
Homeowners planning to stay long-term, or anyone building a forever home who wants peace of mind and future savings.
Tier-One Take:
If you can budget for metal, it’s worth it. We’ve seen metal roofs outlast two or three shingle replacements. If prices are too high right now, we recommend using impact-resistant shingles as a stepping stone.
3. Synthetic Shingles: Real Looks, Low Maintenance
Overview:
Synthetic shingles—like polymer or composite roofing—are engineered to mimic slate, wood shake, or tile but without the weight, cost, or maintenance. In 2025, they’re gaining traction for both looks and performance.
Pros:
Visually impressive (slate, cedar, tile replicas)
Lighter than real slate or tile
Fire-resistant and impact-rated
Longer lifespan than asphalt (30–50 years)
Cons:
More expensive than asphalt
Not always available locally
Requires experienced installer
Best For:
High-end homes or neighborhoods with HOA style requirements. Great for curb appeal without sacrificing durability.
Tier-One Take:
We recommend synthetic roofing for homeowners who want the look of high-end materials but don’t want to deal with the downsides (like breakage, weight, or mold). It’s a premium choice that performs.
4. Stone-Coated Steel: The Best of Both Worlds?
Overview:
Stone-coated steel is a hybrid option: it combines the strength of metal with the look of shingles or tile. It’s growing in popularity, especially in states like Oklahoma where weather extremes are common.
Pros:
Excellent durability and wind resistance
Hail-resistant (great for storm-prone areas)
Lighter than tile
Stylish appearance
Cons:
Still subject to tariffs on steel
Limited local supplier access in some areas
More expensive than traditional metal or shingle roofs
Best For:
Homeowners who want durability but still prefer a more traditional roof appearance.
Tier-One Take:
We’ve seen stone-coated steel hold up beautifully in Oklahoma storms. If pricing is within range, it’s a smart choice for the long haul.
5. Clay or Concrete Tile: Built to Last, But Costly
Overview:
Tile roofing is common in the Southwest and coastal areas, but it's becoming more popular here in Tulsa, too—especially on custom homes. These roofs are built to last 50+ years, but they come with serious cost and weight considerations.
Pros:
Exceptional longevity
Fire- and insect-resistant
Extremely durable in hot climates
Cons:
Very heavy (requires structural reinforcement)
High cost
Brittle in hail-prone regions
Long install times
Best For:
Custom homes with a specific architectural style or homeowners prioritizing long-term investment over short-term cost.
Tier-One Take:
Not our first recommendation for most Oklahoma homes—but if you’re building new or doing a luxury remodel, tile has its place.
Bonus: Solar Roofing—Ready for Prime Time?
Overview:
Solar shingles (like those from Tesla or GAF Energy) combine roofing with energy generation. Still newer to the market, they’re an exciting option—but availability and costs are still a barrier for most homeowners.
Tier-One Take:
We’re watching solar roofing closely. For now, we recommend traditional roofing with separate solar panels for those who want to go green without sacrificing roof quality.
So... What’s the Best Roofing Material in 2025?
It depends on your goals, your budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home. But here’s how we break it down:
Most Budget-Friendly: Asphalt shingles (with upgraded impact resistance)
Best Long-Term Investment: Metal roofing
Best Curb Appeal & Longevity: Synthetic shingles or stone-coated steel
Most Durable Overall: Stone-coated steel or metal
Most Eco-Friendly: Traditional roofing + separate solar panel install
Final Thoughts from Tier-One Roofing
In a year like 2025, where material costs are rising, supply chains are tightening, and weather patterns aren’t getting any calmer, the roof over your head matters more than ever.
We're not here to sell you the most expensive option. We’re here to help you make the right decision for your home—one that balances durability, cost, appearance, and your long-term goals.
If you’re not sure where to start, give us a call. We’ll inspect your current roof, talk through options, and help you make a choice that protects your home and your wallet.