In Oklahoma, we know two things for certain: utility rates always go up, and the weather doesn’t play around. From hailstorms to scorching heat, our homes take a beating—and our monthly energy bills aren’t getting any smaller.
That’s why more homeowners are exploring solar roofing systems. Not just solar panels on racks, but fully integrated solar shingles or tiles that turn your roof into an energy-producing asset.
If you’ve watched our recent video with Johnny from McRoof.US, you already know solar roofing is gaining traction. In this article, we’re digging deeper into what makes systems like Sunstyle and Solstice worth a serious look, especially if you’re planning to replace your roof anyway.
Key Takeaways
- A solar roof in Oklahoma can significantly reduce utility bills, with some homeowners lowering their average monthly costs from $145 to around $13 by switching to integrated solar shingles.
- Sunstyle solar roofs replace the entire roof surface with energy-generating tiles, offering high-end aesthetics and maximum power output, ideal for custom or luxury homes in Oklahoma.
- Solstice solar shingles by CertainTeed integrate directly into asphalt roofs, making them a practical, affordable solution for homeowners replacing their roofs who still want the benefits of solar energy.
- Both Sunstyle and Solstice systems carry Class 4 hail resistance, ensuring they are built to withstand Oklahoma’s extreme weather, including large hail and high winds.
- Homeowners who want backup power during outages must install a battery system, since solar roofs alone shut off when the grid goes down to protect utility crews.
- Solar shingles offer a better long-term solution than traditional rack-mounted panels, with fewer roof penetrations, cleaner aesthetics, and unified warranties that protect both roofing and energy systems.
- Most Oklahoma roofs qualify for solar assessments, especially if they have good sun exposure and are already due for replacement, making it easy to determine savings and eligibility with a custom proposal.
The Evolution of Solar Roofing
For years, solar meant bulky panels bolted to racks sitting a few inches above your roof. While these systems work, they’re often an afterthought—installed separately, looking out of place, and sometimes voiding roofing warranties.
But today’s solar roofing is something else entirely.
Two options are leading the charge:
Sunstyle: Full Solar Tile Roofs
Sunstyle is a premium solar roof system where each tile functions as both a roof covering and a solar panel. These tiles are square, diagonally mounted, and overlap like dragon scales. They create a seamless surface that covers the entire roof with clean, glossy, black glass tiles.
This system is for homeowners who want:
- The best-looking roof on the block
- Maximum surface area for solar production
- Premium materials, like copper flashings and custom trim options
- Class 4 hail resistance for peace of mind during Oklahoma storm season
It’s a luxury product, no doubt—but one that combines form and function in a way that traditional systems simply can’t.
Solstice: Asphalt-Integrated Solar Shingles
If you’re replacing your roof and want to go solar without overhauling your home’s entire exterior, Solstice by CertainTeed is the practical option.
Solstice is a solar shingle—installed by roofers as part of your new asphalt roof. It blends in with regular shingles, produces reliable power, and comes with a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty that covers both the roof and the solar technology.
Homeowners love Solstice because:
- It’s discreet—no raised racks or mechanical hardware
- It’s installed by one company with one warranty
- It lets you generate clean energy without dramatically changing the look of your home
- It can be sized for your actual energy use and budget
Designed for Oklahoma’s Harsh Weather
Living in the central U.S., we have to think differently about our roofs. Solar or not, Oklahoma homeowners need roofing systems that can handle:
- 100+ degree summers
- Heavy snowfall (yes, occasionally)
- Baseball-sized hail
- Tornadic wind speeds
That’s why it’s critical to choose a solar roofing system that’s Class 4 impact resistant—the highest rating for hail durability. Both Sunstyle and Solstice meet this standard.
In fact, these systems are built to take hits from 2-inch steel balls dropped from 20 feet—the equivalent of major hailstorms we see every spring. And unlike traditional rack-mounted systems, they don’t leave penetrations in your roof that can become future leak points.
How Much Does a Solar Roof Save?
Here’s where things get interesting. A traditional asphalt roof is an expense. You pay for it. It protects your house. That’s it.
But a solar roof is an investment—one that pays you back over time.
Take this example:
- Let’s say your current utility bill is $145/month. Over 25 years, that’s $43,500 in electricity costs.
- If you install a solar roof and drop that bill to $13/month, you’re only spending $3,900 over the same period.
- Even if your solar roof costs $40,000 up front, the savings offset it—often within 12–15 years.
That means in year 16 and beyond, you’re essentially generating free power.
Some homeowners even generate surplus energy, which their utility company buys back through net metering. That’s especially common on homes with large south-facing roofs and efficient solar designs.
What Happens During a Power Outage?
Here’s a common misconception: “If I have solar, I’ll have power when the grid goes down.”
Not exactly.
Without a battery backup, your solar system shuts off during outages. That’s a safety measure to prevent backfeeding electricity into the grid and harming utility workers.
If you want your solar roof to provide power during blackouts, you’ll need a battery system. With a battery:
- Your home can run independently from the grid
- You can power essential devices (like a fridge or home medical equipment)
- You’ll still generate and use power even during extended outages
Johnny from McRoof.US explains it best: the ideal setup includes a solar roof, battery system, and an optional generator. It’s the trifecta for energy security.
Why Rack-Mounted Panels Are Becoming Outdated
There’s still a place for traditional rack-mounted solar systems—but most homeowners today want better-looking, more integrated solutions.
Solar shingles offer several major advantages:
- No roof penetrations — no leak risks
- Unified warranty — your roof and solar are covered by one manufacturer
- Cleaner aesthetics — no clunky equipment sitting on your roof
- Streamlined maintenance — one contractor to call if anything needs service
Most importantly, it’s installed by a roofing company, not a solar subcontractor. That means it’s designed with your home’s water integrity, insulation, and structure in mind.
Is Your Roof a Good Candidate?
Not every home qualifies for solar roofing. Factors like:
- Roof pitch
- Direction (south-facing slopes are ideal)
- Shading from trees or other buildings
- Roof age and material
…all impact your eligibility and energy output.
If your roof is already due for replacement—or you’re planning a new build—it’s absolutely worth having a professional evaluate your property for solar integration. A qualified solar lead can generate a custom proposal, show you estimated savings, and help you decide whether it’s the right move.
Final Thoughts
If you live in Oklahoma and you’re replacing your roof—or thinking about your long-term energy costs—now is the time to seriously consider a solar roofing system.
With options like Sunstyle and Solstice, you no longer have to choose between looks, performance, and protection. Today’s solar roofs are:
- Built to handle extreme Oklahoma weather
- Designed to lower (or eliminate) your electric bill
- Protected by long-term warranties from trusted manufacturers
- A powerful combination of energy production and curb appeal
Before you sign off on another traditional asphalt roof, consider whether you want it to pay you back—or just cost you money.
To explore your options or request a free consultation, reach out to the team at McRoof.US.