If you live in Oklahoma, you don’t just "have" a roof—you have a shield. Between the spring supercells and the "golf-ball-to-grapefruit" hail seasons, choosing a roofing material is the most expensive defensive decision you’ll make for your home.
Lately, many of our customers at TaylorMade Exteriors have been asking: "I want solar, but will the Tesla Solar Roof survive an Oklahoma spring, or should I stick with a traditional metal roof?"
Let’s break down the "Hail Reality" of both systems so you can make an informed decision for your OKC or Mustang home.
1. The Impact Test: Glass vs. Steel
The biggest misconception we hear is that "glass shatters and metal doesn't." In reality, the engineering tells a different story.
- Tesla Solar Roof: Tesla uses tempered glass that is rated Class 4 Impact Resistant (the highest possible rating). In official testing videos, you can see these tiles withstand 2-inch hail at over 100 mph without cracking. Because the tiles are small and integrated, they actually have more structural "give" than large sheets of glass.
- Traditional Metal Roofing: Metal (especially 24-gauge standing seam) is also incredibly durable. However, metal is prone to cosmetic "dimpling." While a hail storm might not cause a metal roof to leak, it can leave it looking like the surface of the moon, which can affect your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
The Winner: Tesla Solar Roof for aesthetics (it doesn't "dent"), but Metal for pure structural indestructibility.
2. The Warranty: Who Covers the Storm?
In Oklahoma, your warranty is only as good as its "hail clause."
- Tesla’s 25-Year Warranty: Tesla offers a 24/7 protective warranty. However, like most manufacturers, they distinguish between "functional" damage and "cosmetic" damage.
- Metal Roofing: Most high-end metal roofs come with a 40–50 year warranty. However, many metal manufacturers specifically exclude hail denting. If your goal is a "forever" roof that looks perfect, keep in mind that insurance often won't pay to replace a metal roof for dents alone unless the metal is actually punctured.
3. Financial Incentives: Oklahoma Insurance Discounts
Both of these roofs are massive upgrades over asphalt shingles, and the state of Oklahoma knows it.
- Insurance Discounts: Both systems typically qualify for Class 4 Impact Resistance discounts. According to the Oklahoma Insurance Department, upgrading to high-impact materials can lower your premiums by 20% to 30%.
- The SOH Grant: Did you know you might be eligible for a grant? The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) program offers up to $10,000 to help homeowners upgrade to "FORTIFIED" roof standards. Check your eligibility here.
4. Energy Production: Passive vs. Active
This is where the comparison shifts from "protection" to "ROI."
- Metal Roofing (Passive): Metal is "cool roofing." It reflects solar heat, which can lower your AC bills by 10-25%. It protects, but it doesn't pay you back.
- Tesla Solar Roof (Active): It does everything a metal roof does, but it also wipes out your electric bill. In a state where utility rates are climbing, the Tesla roof turns an "expense" into a "generating asset."
5. The "Oklahoma Factor": Wind Resistance
Hail rarely falls straight down in Oklahoma; it’s usually horizontal.
- Tesla Solar Roof is rated for 166 mph winds, equivalent to a high-end EF3 tornado.
- Standing Seam Metal is also rated for high winds (up to 140+ mph). However, the individual tile design of the Tesla roof prevents the "sail effect" where large wind gusts can catch and peel back large metal panels.
The Verdict: Which is Better for You?
Choose Traditional Metal Roofing if:
- You want the longest-lasting roof possible (40-70 years).
- You aren't worried about cosmetic "dimpling" from hail.
- You want a lower upfront cost than a solar integration.
Choose Tesla Solar Roof if:
- You want your roof to pay for itself through energy savings.
- You want a roof that looks like premium slate but has the strength of tempered glass.
- You want the ultimate "storm-ready" home when paired with a Tesla Powerwall (for when the Oklahoma grid goes down).
Get a "Tailor Made" Inspection
At TaylorMade Exteriors, we specialize in the high-end materials Oklahoma weather demands. Whether you’re leaning toward the tech-forward Tesla Solar Roof or the timeless strength of Metal, we provide the expert installation required to maintain your warranties.
Ready to see which roof fits your home? [Click here to Schedule Your Free Oklahoma Storm-Ready Estimate]








