Should You Buy Solar Shingles? - This Old House

Are you considering adding solar power to your home but worried about bulky panels disrupting your roof’s appearance? Solar shingles can offer a more visually appealing solution that blends in with your roof. 

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We’ve researched renewable energy extensively to understand the best solar companies in the nation and how to make the most out of going solar. This guide provides everything you need to know about innovative solar shingle technology that combines traditional roofing with clean energy production.

What Are Solar Shingles?

Solar shingles are an innovative building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) product that serves a dual purpose: they function as both your roof covering and a renewable energy generator. Unlike traditional solar panels that mount on top of your existing roof, solar shingles offer a sleek alternative that blend seamlessly with your roofing materials, creating a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing look. Similar to standard panels, solar shingles capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. By replacing standard roofing materials like asphalt shingles or tiles, solar shingles can reduce material costs while providing clean energy, essentially letting your roof multitask.

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), interest in solar shingles has grown steadily as more homeowners seek visually appealing solar solutions. From a construction standpoint, solar shingles contain thin photovoltaic (PV) layers protected by tempered glass. Manufacturers engineer solar shingles to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and hail impacts, making them both a functional energy solution and a durable roofing option.

Benefits of Solar Shingles

Below we explore what makes solar shingles an attractive option for many homeowners:

• Dual functionality: Solar shingles serve both as your roof covering and an energy generator, potentially saving you on materials if you need a roof replacement anyway.
• Durability: Most solar shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, with some models rated for winds exceeding 130 miles per hour (mph).
• Increased curb appeal: Solar shingles offer a sleek, integrated look that homeowners may prefer over traditional rack-mounted panels.
• Property value increase: Homes with solar energy systems sell for more on average than comparable homes without solar power.
• Homeowners association (HOA) compliance: For homeowners in neighborhoods with strict aesthetic HOA guidelines, solar shingles can meet requirements that might prohibit traditional panel installations.

Drawbacks of Solar Shingles

While solar shingles offer numerous benefits, it’s important to understand their limitations. Here’s a list of key drawbacks to consider when making your decision:

• Greater quantity required: Because each solar shingle produces less power at 13–70 watts compared to up to 400 watts for a single solar panel, you’ll need more units to power your home effectively.
• Higher installation costs: Solar shingles typically come with a premium price tag compared to conventional solar panels, primarily due to more complex installation requirements and using newer technology.
• Limited availability: Depending on your region, you may have fewer installation companies to choose from, as solar shingle technology isn’t as widely available as traditional solar panels and solar battery backup systems.
• Lower efficiency: Most solar shingles achieve efficiency ratings between 14% and 18%, while high-performance solar panels can reach up to 24%, meaning you’ll need more shingles to generate the same amount of power.

Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels: A Detailed Comparison

The table below examines how solar shingles and solar panels compare across several important factors.

A Closer Look at These Factors

Here are more details around what these factors mean and why they’re important to consider when going solar: 

• Aesthetics: When it comes to visual impact, the difference is substantial. Traditional rooftop solar panels are mounted on racks that sit several inches above your roof surface, creating a noticeable addition to your home’s exterior. Monocrystalline panels with their black appearance tend to blend better than the distinctive blue color of polycrystalline panels. Solar shingles, by contrast, integrate directly with your existing roof or replace it entirely, creating a much more seamless appearance that homeowners and architects may prefer.
• Composition and technology: The materials inside your solar product affect both performance and appearance. Traditional solar panels primarily use crystalline silicon in either monocrystalline (single-crystal) or polycrystalline (multiple-crystal fragments) configurations. Most solar shingles utilize either monocrystalline silicon or copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) cells.
• Efficiency: When it comes to converting sunlight into electricity, traditional panels currently maintain the efficiency advantage. High-efficiency monocrystalline panels achieve efficiency ratings up to 24%, meaning they convert nearly a quarter of the sunlight they absorb into usable electricity. Solar shingles typically range from 14%–18% efficiency, comparable to polycrystalline panels but less efficient than premium monocrystalline options. This efficiency gap means you’ll need significantly more shingles to match the output of high-performance panels, potentially 20–30 shingles to equal one high-performance panel.
• Longevity and warranties: Both solar options represent a long-term investment. Quality solar panels can last 25–40 years with proper maintenance and are typically backed by 25-year warranties from most manufacturers. Similarly, solar shingles come with 25-year power production guarantees, though some manufacturers offer separate warranty terms for durability that may extend through your home’s lifetime. Research from the NREL indicates that both technologies can maintain at least 80% of their original production capacity after 25 years.
• Size and weight: The dimensional difference between panels and shingles is significant. Solar shingles are designed to mimic the size and appearance of traditional roofing materials, typically measuring about 12 inches wide by 86 inches long. At roughly 13 pounds per square foot, they’re lighter than you might expect and don’t require the additional mounting hardware of conventional panels. This eliminates concerns about excessive weight stressing your roof structure over time.

How Much Do Solar Shingles Cost?

Solar shingles typically have a higher cost compared to traditional solar panels. According to our survey of 1,000 solar customers, the national average price for professionally installed solar panels is $1,200 each. As a result, most full-size systems, which consist of 20–30 panels, range in cost from $24,000–$36,000. Solar shingles, by comparison, typically cost $21–$25 per square foot, with an average total installation cost around $55,000, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). These prices can vary based on your energy needs, home size, and specific installation requirements.

The good news is that multiple financial incentives can help significantly reduce these costs:

• Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): This program provides a federal tax credit equal to 30% of your solar installation costs, potentially saving you thousands. This incentive is available through before gradually decreasing, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).
• Net metering: Many utility companies offer billing credits for excess electricity your system produces and feeds back to the grid, further enhancing your long-term savings.
• Property tax exemptions: Some states exempt the added value of solar system installations from property tax assessments, allowing you to increase your home’s value without increasing your property taxes.
• State and local incentives: Many states, counties, and utilities offer additional rebates or performance-based incentives. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) provides an updated catalog of available programs in your area.

Understanding Your Home’s Solar Potential

Before investing in any solar technology, assess whether your home is well-suited for solar energy production. Here are key factors to consider:

• Climate: While solar systems can work in all 50 U.S. states, your local weather patterns affect how much energy your system can produce annually. The NREL’s PVWatts Calculator can provide energy production estimates based on your specific location.
• Roof condition and age: If your roof needs replacement within the next 5-10 years, installing solar shingles during a complete reroofing project may end up more cost-effective than installing traditional panels now and removing them later for roof work.
• Roof direction and angle: South-facing roofs with a slope between 15–40 degrees typically capture the most sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the DOE. East and west-facing sections can also have productive outputs but solar systems in these locations may generate less electricity than on south-facing roofs.
• Shading analysis: Trees, neighboring buildings, or other structures that cast shadows on your roof during peak sunlight hours, which run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., can significantly reduce a solar system’s energy production. Professional installers use solar pathfinders or digital tools to conduct thorough shade analyses before installation.

Solar Shingles Installation Process

Understanding what to expect during installation helps prepare you for the process of adding solar shingles to your home. We’ve outlined a rundown of the process so you know what to expect.

Your solar shingle installation begins with a thorough home energy assessment. A professional installer will analyze your household’s energy consumption patterns and your roof’s specifications to determine how many shingles you’ll need. The higher your energy usage, the more shingles required, which directly impacts your total installation costs.

Before installation begins, the technician must evaluate your roof’s structural integrity. It’s important that any necessary roof repairs get completed before installing solar shingles to prevent future complications or damage. Unlike traditional panels that installers can add to portions of your roof, solar shingles often require more extensive roof work. If your roof already needs significant repairs or replacement, opting for a complete solar roof installation might offer a more cost-effective solution by eliminating the need for conventional roofing materials.

After an inspection and any roof repairs, solar shingle installation generally involves the following steps:

1. Removing existing roofing materials in the installation area
2. Installing weatherproofing underlayment
3. Setting up the mounting system
4. Installing the solar shingles in an overlapping pattern similar to traditional roofing
5. Connecting the electrical components and the inverter system
6. Final inspection and system activation

Solar Shingle and Roof Companies

​​A limited number of solar manufacturers produce solar shingles. Here’s an overview of some companies that provide solar roofing solutions. 

• CertainTeed Solar: This company manufactures monocrystalline solar shingles and tiles. The Apollo Tile II system integrates with flat concrete tile roofs, and the Apollo II system installs on asphalt tile configurations.
• Luma Solar: Luma’s monocrystalline shingles have a Miami-Dade hurricane rating of Class 5+, which means they’re durable enough to withstand even the most dangerous hurricane-force winds. These solar shingles work with metal shingles and have upgradable technology.
• SunTegra Solar: You can have SunTegra shingles and tiles customized for composite and tile roofs. Sheets of tiles are attached to composite layouts, while individual tiles are assembled on tiled roofs.
• Tesla Energy: Tesla is one of the few traditional solar installers that provides full-roof installations. Tesla’s solar roof uses both glass solar tiles and architectural steel tiles to enhance the roof’s strength. This installation replaces conventional roofing to combine clean energy generation with protection from the elements.
• Timberline Solar Roofing by GAF Energy: Timberline solar roofing uses rack-mounting, so it doesn’t need to drill into your roof shingles for proper attachment. These shingles come in four colors to match your roof’s design and withstand winds up to 130 mph.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Unlike some home improvements that require regular maintenance, solar shingles are relatively low-maintenance. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your solar roof in optimal condition:

• Cleaning: Most solar shingles are self-cleaning through rainfall in areas with regular precipitation. In drier regions or during extended dry periods, occasional gentle cleaning with water may improve performance by removing dust and debris. The NREL recommends avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the shingle surface.
• Monitoring: Most modern solar shingle systems include solar monitoring technology that allows you to track performance using smartphone apps or web portals. Regular monitoring helps identify any unusual drops in production that might indicate an issue requiring attention.
• Professional inspections: Having your system professionally inspected every 3–5 years helps ensure optimal performance and can identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. Many installers offer maintenance plans that include regular checkups.
• Snow removal: In snowy regions, excessive snow accumulation can temporarily reduce energy production. However, most solar roofs are designed with sufficient slope to allow snow to slide off naturally as it melts, and attempting to remove snow manually could damage the shingles.

Making Your Decision: Are Solar Shingles Right for You?

We believe solar shingles are worth the investment for homeowners who don’t want bulky solar panels but want the benefits of utilizing solar energy and are willing to spend money on it. Solar shingles offer a good investment for homeowners who:

• Are willing to pay a premium for a sleek, integrated appearance
• Live in neighborhoods with strict HOA guidelines
• Need a roof replacement soon anyway
• Plan to stay in their home for 10 or more years to maximize their return on investment
• Value aesthetic integration and curb appeal

However, traditional solar panels might offer a better option if you:

• Are working with a tighter budget
• Have a limited roof area available for solar installation
• Need to maximize energy production per square foot of roof space
• Want a system with the highest possible efficiency ratings

The right decision for you depends on your specific priorities, budget, and home characteristics. If you need help deciding, we recommend contacting a solar installer in your area to learn more about your options.

FAQs About Solar Shingles

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In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of solar roof tiles and how Pinnacle Home Improvements can help you harness the power of the sun to transform your home into an energy-efficient oasis.

Everything You Need to Know About Solar Roof Tiles: Unveiling the Future of Home Energy

Solar roof tiles, also known as photovoltaic shingles, combine the benefits of solar power with the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofing materials. As an innovative approach to harnessing sunlight to generate electricity, these tiles offer homeowners a sustainable and cost-effective power solution. They function by incorporating thin photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power a home. The seamless integration into the roof allows for a sleek design that maintains the home’s traditional appearance while providing an eco-friendly energy source.

One of the primary advantages of solar roof tiles is their dual functionality. Not only do they protect the dwelling from the elements, as any good roofing material should but they also generate electricity, reducing dependence on grid-supplied power and potentially lowering energy bills. The installation of solar roof tiles can increase a property’s value by improving its energy efficiency and reducing its carbon footprint.

In terms of operation, solar roof tiles are designed with efficiency in mind. Each tile is equipped with a photovoltaic cell that captures sunlight and transforms it into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which can be utilized for household needs or fed back into the grid. The integration of these tiles into existing roofing structures has become increasingly streamlined, enabling more homeowners to take advantage of this renewable energy technology without compromising on style or structural integrity.

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Benefits and Advantages

Solar roof tiles offer a unique combination of economic and environmental advantages, with distinct benefits over traditional roofing materials. They represent a fusion of traditional aesthetics with modern solar technology.

Economic Benefits

Solar roof tiles provide significant long-term savings on electricity bills. Over their lifespan, they generate a return on investment through the production of renewable energy. The initial costs are mitigated by:

• Lower energy bills: Homeowners can reduce their reliance on the grid as solar roof tiles harness free and abundant solar energy.
• Government incentives: In many regions, tax credits, rebates, and other incentives are available for solar energy installations.

Environmental Impact

The adoption of solar roof tiles contributes positively to environmental conservation efforts. Their impact includes:

• Reduction in greenhouse gasses: By generating clean electricity, solar roof tiles cut down on carbon emissions typically associated with conventional power sources.
• Sustainable production: They are often made using sustainable practices and materials, which further lessens environmental footprints.

The Advantage of Solar Roofing Solutions Over Traditional Materials

Solar roof tiles offer resilience and aesthetic harmony, alongside their energy-generating capability, compared to traditional materials. Their advantages are:

• Integrated design: Unlike bulky traditional panels, solar roof tiles blend seamlessly with conventional roofing materials, preserving the home’s aesthetic.
• Durability: They are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, which can even surpass the resilience of many conventional roofing materials.

Costs and Savings of Solar Roofing Tiles

Investing in solar roof tiles is a significant financial decision. Homeowners should understand both the initial costs and the potential savings to make an informed choice.

Long-Term Savings

The major draw of solar roof tiles is their ability to generate savings over time. Homeowners typically see a reduction in their electricity bills, as solar tiles harness the sun’s power to produce energy. They can expect savings on utility bills that increase as electricity prices rise. Furthermore, solar roof tiles contribute to increasing a property’s value, often leading to higher resale prices.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

A thorough cost-benefit analysis often demonstrates that the initial investment in solar roof tiles is offset by the long-term financial benefits. These tiles come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional roofing materials; however, tax incentives, rebates, and solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) can significantly reduce the effective cost. It’s essential to assess factors such as the size of the roof, energy consumption, local solar incentives, and the efficiency of the solar tiles. These variables affect how quickly homeowners can recoup their investment and start saving.

Selection and Installation of Solar Roofing Systems

Selecting the right solar roof tiles and understanding the installation process are critical steps towards integrating sustainable energy solutions into one’s home. These decisions influence the efficiency, aesthetics, and overall satisfaction with the solar roofing system.

Choosing the Right Tiles

When selecting solar roof tiles, homeowners should evaluate several factors to ensure they make informed decisions.

Key factors to consider include:

• Efficiency: The power output, typically measured in watts, indicates the efficiency of the solar tiles. Higher ratings generally yield greater electricity generation.
• Durability: High-quality tiles are essential for withstanding environmental factors such as hail, wind, and UV exposure.
• Warranty: Look for long-term warranties that cover tile performance and weather resistance.
• Aesthetics: Solar tiles come in various styles to complement a home’s architecture.
• Certifications: Ensure the solar tiles meet relevant industry standards and certifications for safety and performance.

Local climate and roof angle should also be factored into the decision to optimize solar absorption.

Types of Solar Roof Tiles:

• Monocrystalline and polycrystalline options for different efficiency and cost needs.
• Thin-film solar tiles are lightweight and flexible, suitable for roofs unable to support heavier tiles.
• Integrated photovoltaic systems blend seamlessly with traditional roofing materials.

Installation Guidelines

The installation of solar roof tiles requires meticulous planning and adherence to technical guidelines to ensure the system functions effectively.

Installation Steps:

1. Site Assessment: Professional evaluation of the roof’s structure, orientation, and sun exposure.
2. Permitting: Securing necessary building and electrical permits in accordance with local regulations.
3. Sub-roof Preparation: Reinforcing the roof, as needed, and ensuring proper underlayment for the tiles.
4. Tile Placement: Careful arrangement of solar tiles to maximize exposure and energy production.
5. Wiring: Safe integration of electrical components, including inverters and power optimizers.
6. Testing: A thorough check to confirm the system’s functionality prior to final approval.

Working with certified installers is strongly recommended to guarantee installation quality and adherence to safety standards. It is imperative to engage with professionals who are well-versed in local legislation and utility company policies regarding solar installations.

Maintenance and Misconceptions

Solar roof tiles require minimal maintenance, and many common beliefs about their upkeep and functionality are unfounded. This section addresses the actual maintenance needs of solar roof tiles and dispels prevalent myths that may deter homeowners from considering them.

Upkeep Requirements

Solar roof tiles are designed for durability and low maintenance. They typically require:

• Inspection: An annual check to ensure no tiles are damaged or obstructed.
• Cleaning: Occasional cleaning, mainly to remove debris, dust, or snow, which can be done with standard hose water.

However, specifics may vary by manufacturer, so owners should consult their user manuals for precise guidelines.

Dispelling Myths

1. Fragility: Solar tiles are often believed to be fragile, but they are actually engineered to withstand harsh weather, such as hail and heavy rain.
2. Aesthetic Concerns: Contrary to the belief that solar options are unsightly, solar tiles blend seamlessly with traditional roofing materials.
3. Energy Production in Cloudy Weather: They can still generate electricity under cloudy conditions, albeit at reduced efficiency.

Concern Fact-Based Response Longevity Solar roof tiles have a lifespan comparable to traditional roof tiles, often around 30 years. Installation Professional installation ensures tiles are integrated correctly without harm to roof integrity. Repairs Damaged tiles can be individually replaced without the need to refurbish the entire roof.

By understanding the actual requirements and dispelling misconceptions, homeowners can make informed decisions about solar roof tiles.

The Future of Solar Technology

Solar technology is continually advancing, and solar roof tiles are poised to play a pivotal role in the transformation of home improvements. One can anticipate significant enhancements in efficiency. Third-generation solar cells, such as perovskite, are expected to offer higher energy conversion rates.

The incorporation of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is a key trend, merging energy generation with aesthetically pleasing designs. This integration allows homeowners to replace traditional roofing materials with solar roof tiles that blend seamlessly with their home’s architecture.

Moreover, the rise in smart home technology aligns with solar advancements. Future solar tiles may integrate with home energy management systems to optimize electricity usage. Homeowners will benefit from real-time data to maximize their energy savings.

Future Implications:

• Increased energy independence for homeowners
• Reduction in carbon footprint
• Enhanced property value

Aspect Current Status Future Expectations Efficiency Up to 22% Potential increase beyond 30% Aesthetics Variety of styles Wider range, customizable options Smart Integration Limited Full integration with smart homes Cost Price dropping, but initial cost is high Further reduction in costs and break-even time

As these technologies are refined, it is likely that the installation and maintenance of solar roof tiles will become simpler, further accelerating their adoption. The enhanced efficiency and harmonious design of future solar roof tiles will drastically augment the role of sustainable energy in home improvements, making them an even more attractive investment for eco-conscious homeowners.

For additional information on solar roof tiles, contact the team at Pinnacle Home Improvements.

The company is the world’s best solar roof tiles manufacturers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.