Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing in Tulsa

Most asphalt shingle roofs in Tulsa last 15-20 years, which is shorter than the national average due to extreme weather conditions. Premium materials like metal (30-50 years), clay tile (50+ years), or slate (75+ years) offer longer lifespans despite harsh regional conditions.

For a typical 2,000 sq ft home in Tulsa, Oklahoma:

• Asphalt shingles: $8,000-$12,000
• Metal roofing: $15,000-$25,000
• Clay/concrete tile: $20,000-$30,000

Look for contractors who:

• Have established local presence (5+ years in community)
• Comply with Oklahoma state and local licensing (requirements vary by municipality)
• Maintain general liability insurance ($1M minimum) and workers’ compensation
• Are certified by major manufacturers (GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, etc.)
• Are members of regional associations (Oklahoma Roofing Contractors Association for example)
• Can provide local references from your specific community
• Have a high rating on local roofing business directories such as TulsaRoofersNearMe.com and Google Business Profiles

Most US states have specific insurance claim processes:

• Oklahoma law allows one year to file hail/wind claims (recently changed from two years)
• Oklahoma has specific protections against improper claim denials
• Oklahoma’s Insurance Department offers consumer protection resources
• Most policies in Oklahoma have moved to percentage-based deductibles (typically 1-2% of home value) rather than fixed amounts
• Recent legislation in Oklahoma has targeted “storm chaser” contractors who manipulate the claims process

Due to extreme weather conditions:

• Twice yearly inspections recommended (spring and fall)
• Additional inspection after any significant storm event (hail, high winds)
• Focus on flashing, pipe boots, and sealants that deteriorate faster in extreme temperature fluctuations
• Inspection of attic ventilation systems critical for preventing heat-related shingle damage

Impact-resistant shingles (Class 4) are highly recommended for Tulsa and Northeast Oklahoma due to frequent hail storms. Metal roofing is gaining popularity for its durability against both hail and high winds (can withstand up to 140 mph winds when properly installed). Many insurance companies offer discounts for Class 4 impact-resistant roofing materials.

For Tulsa homes and commercial buildings, “cool roof” materials with high solar reflectance are ideal:

• Metal roofing with reflective coatings
• Concrete or clay tiles (particularly lighter colors)
• Specially designed “cool” asphalt shingles with reflective granules
• TPO or PVC membrane roofing for flat or low-slope roofs

   

These materials can reduce attic temperatures by 20-40 degrees and cut cooling costs by 15-30%.

Yes, most municipalities require permits.

Tulsa requires permits for all roof replacements and repairs exceeding 400 sq ft

Oklahoma follows the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) with these key requirements:

• Wind resistance ratings of 90-115 mph depending on location
• Class 4 impact resistance highly recommended (required by some municipalities)
• Ice and water shield required in northern counties
• Proper ventilation systems meeting the 1:150 ratio (1 sq ft ventilation per 150 sq ft attic space)
• Permit requirements vary by city, with Tulsa having strict code enforcement

Following major storms in Tulsa and Northeastern Oklahoma:

• The local contractor workforce becomes overwhelmed (sometimes handling 5-10× normal volume)
• Material shortages occur as suppliers cannot meet sudden demand
• Insurance adjusters face backlogs, delaying claim approvals
• Storm-chasing contractors arrive from out-of-state, creating uneven quality and potential scams

   

Wait times can extend to 3-6 months after major events in heavily affected areas.

Local area labor considerations include:

• Seasonal labor fluctuations with shortages during peak seasons (spring/summer)
• Higher costs during storm seasons when demand spikes
• Training and certification gaps with rapid industry growth
• Labor shortage in rural areas requiring travel costs from Tulsa’s urban areas
• Increasing labor costs (15-25% rise over the past three years)
• Federal immigration policy changes and enforcement

Yes, several programs offer benefits:

• Federal tax credits for ENERGY STAR certified roofing materials (up to 30% of material costs)
• Oklahoma Gas & Electric and Public Service Oklahoma offer rebates for cool roof installations
• Reduced insurance premiums for impact-resistant materials (up to 28% discount in high-risk areas)

Tulsa faces several specific roofing challenges:

• High hail exposure (among the highest in Oklahoma)
• Urban heat island effect in metro areas accelerating shingle aging
• Variable freeze-thaw cycles causing expansion/contraction damage
• City code requirements for ice and water shield in certain applications
• Historic district restrictions in neighborhoods like Swan Lake, Brady Heights, and Maple Ridge

Yes, improper roof drainage is a leading cause of foundation problems:

• Oklahoma’s clay soils are highly expansive, making proper gutter systems critical
• Downspouts should direct water at least 5-10 feet from foundations
• French drain systems may be necessary in areas with poor natural drainage
• Foundation warranties may be voided by improper roof drainage systems