The Only Solar Shingles Buying Guide You Need

Harnessing the power of solar energy is not only good for the environment, but it&#;s also good for your wallet. While roof panels are what often come to mind, solar shingles are another option for homeowners seeking to add value to their properties.

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What Are Solar Shingles?

Solar shingles, or solar roof tiles, are made of slim photovoltaic (PV) sheets that either overlay or replace the existing shingles on a roof. They absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. By relying on this method of energy as opposed to electricity, for example, homeowners will save money on monthly bills and eventually recoup their initial investments.

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Like regular roof shingles, solar shingles protect your home from the weather and other elements. These shingles are not only energy-efficient, but they also offer a more attractive aesthetic to a home than do the large, bulky panels normally associated with solar-powered energy.

Solar Roof Shingles vs. Solar Roof Panels

Solar shingles work in a similar way to solar panels&#;they both absorb the sun&#;s rays, converting the light to thermal or electrical energy. However, there are a few important differences between solar panels and shingles that you should know about when determining your home&#;s solar energy needs:

Size

Solar shingles are about the same size as traditional roofing shingles, with the average size being about 12 inches wide by 86 inches long, and weighing about 13 pounds per square foot. The thin tiles are less than an inch in thickness. It takes about 350 tiles to complete a typical solar roof installation.

Materials

Solar shingles are typically made from copper indium gallium selenide, which is what allows them to be so flexible and thin. This semiconductor is an ideal material as it results in a high conversion efficiency rate, which is about 10% to 12% on average. Some shingles, instead, use monocrystalline silicon, which is also used to fabricate computer chips. While these are more expensive, they are worth the extra price as they have a higher efficiency rate of around 15% to 20%.

Output

As the primary goal is to lower energy costs, this is a major consideration with solar installation. The majority of shingles will produce anywhere between 13 and 63 watts of power. The number of tiles in a typical home roof installation can lower the utility bill by 40% to 70%; by adding more tiles, you can increase the energy output.

While both solar shingles and solar panels convert the sun&#;s rays into energy, there are a number of differences that will help you decide between the two options:

Appearance

Since solar shingles blend right into the roofing materials, such as concrete or asphalt, many prefer this aesthetic rather than large black panels attached to the roof. In general, solar shingles create a sleeker aesthetic than do bulky solar panels, particularly since only parts of the roof, like the edging, might be covered in shingles to be efficient.

Service Life

Both solar panels and shingles have long life spans, typically upwards of 20 years. However, the longevity of solar shingles varies by the manufacturer and the installation. Warranties also vary; when you purchase solar shingles, be sure that you note the difference between power warranties. Solar shingle warranties can last for a couple of decades based on their production, while durability warranties that cover the shingles themselves can span the lifetime of the home.

Efficiency

Solar shingles are outshined by panels in terms of efficiency for a number of reasons. While solar panels can be adjusted as needed to achieve the best angle to capture the sun&#;s rays, shingles stay in the same place as they were first installed. You can always add more shingles to the roof to harness more energy, but as with all home improvement projects, more materials mean more money.

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Installation

Solar shingles can take as much as a week to install&#;and that&#;s if your existing roof is in good shape. If you are building or redoing your roof before adding solar shingles, it can take even longer. Some solar tile manufacturers, like Tesla, will take two or more weeks to install.
This is in sharp comparison to solar panels, which can be installed within a day.

Durability

Solar shingles have one major advantage to panels: They are more durable. Unlike panels, which sit atop the roof, solar roof tiles are actually part of the roof. As such, they are more resilient and can stand up to harsh weather conditions and fallen debris. Additionally, solar shingles are fire-resistant, a feature that is not inherent in solar panels. (It should be noted, however, that the risk for fire with solar panels is very low.)

Cost

Solar shingles can be on the pricier side depending on how much square footage you need to cover and which types you&#;d like to get. It&#;s important to understand your budget before opting into a solar shingle project.

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Solar Shingles Cost

Solar shingles typically cost more than solar panels because of the amount of materials needed for installation. The average price of solar roof tiles ranges from $15,000 to $20,000, but Tesla shingles could cost more than $70,000, along with a lengthy installation period. However, the ultimate cost of solar shingles depends on the size of the roof, the energy needs of your household and the manufacturer and installer of the shingles you have chosen. You can compare this to the cost of solar panels here.

Solar Shingles Cost Per Square Foot

When considering the installation of solar shingles, it&#;s important to understand the costs associated with this innovative roofing solution. Solar shingles not only provide the functionality of traditional roofing materials but also generate electricity, offering long-term savings on energy bills. The price per square foot for solar shingles can vary depending on factors such as the brand, roof pitch and installation complexity. However, the average cost per square foot for solar shingles typically ranges from $21 to $25.

Below is a table that illustrates the average total cost of solar shingles for different roof sizes, based on the average price per square foot:

Pros and Cons of Solar Shingles

Here is a rundown of the advantages and disadvantages of solar shingles for your home:

Pros

• Shingles have a sleeker, more attractive aesthetic. They integrate well with concrete and asphalt roofs in particular.
• They are weather-resistant and durable.
• They are easier to maintain than solar panels.
• They are cost-effective if you are building a new roof

Cons

• While solar panels have been around for quite a while, solar shingles are young by comparison. Therefore, not every solar manufacturer offers them.
• The technology is still evolving as well. Not all existing roofs are conducive to solar shingle installation&#;you might have to rebuild the entire roof.
• They are more expensive than solar panels.
• They are currently limited in style and colors, though brands like Tesla are introducing new options.

How Many Solar Shingles Do You Need?

To learn how many solar shingles are needed to power a house, you&#;ll use a formula with key factors like the size of your house and your typical energy usage. Since you can integrate solar shingles into your existing roof, the amount of solar shingles you&#;ll need depends on how large your roof is and how much you&#;d like to save on your electricity bill: the more shingles, the more energy output.

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How Long Do Solar Shingles Last?

Solar shingles are designed to offer both durability and efficiency, making them an attractive option for homeowners looking to invest in renewable energy solutions. The lifespan of solar shingles can vary based on the manufacturer, the materials used and the installation quality. Generally, solar shingles have a lifespan ranging from 20 to 30 years. Here are a few more factors that can influence the longevity of your solar shingles:

• Material quality:

  High-quality materials like monocrystalline silicon can extend the life of solar shingles, offering better efficiency and durability.

• Installation:

  Proper installation by certified professionals ensures that solar shingles are securely attached and optimally positioned, which can enhance their longevity.

• Maintenance:

  Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspections, helps keep solar shingles in good condition and prevents issues that could shorten their lifespan.

• Environmental conditions:

  Harsh weather conditions, such as heavy snowfall, hail or extreme temperatures, can affect the lifespan of solar shingles. However, most solar shingles are designed to withstand various weather conditions.

Best Solar Shingle Brands

Here are a number of brands that manufacture solar shingles for use in residential installations:

Tesla

This well-known technology brand also manufactures solar shingles. Tesla shingles are made from quartz, which improves their efficiency and resilience. Not only does Tesla create the shingles, but the company also manages every step of the process, from design to installation, which includes removal of the current roof, if applicable. These shingles come in attractive textures, and they come with a 30-year power output warranty. An app allows you to monitor your shingles&#; energy levels at a glance.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed solar shingles are created with the same monocrystalline technology used for solar panels. There are two designs, one that coordinates with concrete tile roofs and another that matches with asphalt.

SunTegra

SunTegra is another option for those looking for a more budget-friendly option in solar roofing. Its simple, lightweight configuration reduces the time it takes to install and integrates well with either asphalt or concrete roofs.

Luma

Luma solar shingles are different from others on the market in terms of their high efficiency (21%) and durability&#;they can withstand Category 5 hurricanes. They are also billed as the only solar shingle that can be upgraded, which is a great feature to have as the technology improves.

Timberline Solar by GAF Energy

Timberline Solar By GAF Energy is meant to make solar simple. The durable solar shingles are water-shedding and designed to withstand up to 130 mph. Timberline Solar is installed similarly to regular roof shingles and nailed directly to the roof.

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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

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Are Solar Shingles Worth It?

The decision to invest in solar shingles depends on several factors, making it a potentially worthwhile option in some scenarios and less so in others. For homeowners prioritizing aesthetics and seeking a seamless integration with their roof, solar shingles offer a visually appealing alternative to traditional solar panels. They may be particularly valuable in areas with abundant sunlight, allowing for significant energy savings and potential increases in property value. However, the higher initial cost compared to traditional roofing materials and solar panels might be a deterrent for some. Additionally, if your roof doesn&#;t receive optimal sunlight or if you plan to move in the near future, the long-term financial benefits may not be as impactful. Assessing your specific energy needs, budget and long-term plans can help determine if solar shingles are the right choice for your home.

If you&#;re looking to acquire solar panels, your first step is to determine whether your roof is suitable for a solar panel system. And if you plan to use solar panels on a home you&#;re building, roof design should be on your mind as well.

Either way, roofing styles and materials come in many different types. Understanding how these factors influence solar panel installations can be challenging. 

As an experienced solar panel company, in Freedom Solar we&#;ll give you insights about which roofs work best for solar panels. When you know the best roof for solar panels at your home, you&#;ll make sure your system stays stable and secure for optimal performance.

Find out if you can save with your personalized free estimate.

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What Type of Roof Is Best for Solar Panels?

Many types of roofs work great for solar panels, but here are the top types to choose from. 

Mounting Solar Panels on Shingle Roofs

Image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay 

Shingle roofs are the most common type of roofing on homes and comprise either composite or asphalt shingles. Composite shingles are made of a combination of materials, such as laminate, wood and slate. Asphalt shingles are made of either a cellulose mat or fiberglass, with asphalt added at the end of the manufacturing process. 

While both options are flexible, composite shingles are a bit more durable than their asphalt counterpart.

Overall, installing solar panels on shingle roofs is quite simple, requiring standard penetrating mounts that easily attach.

For installation, technicians drill studs into the roof for the solar panels to attach to. Then, they close off the spaces between the panels and studs. Finally, they seal the system with flashings to prevent water from leaking between the roof and panels &#; and potentially into your home. 

Many homeowners (or homebuilders) use shingle roofing because it&#;s inexpensive and durable. In fact, shingle roofing lasts between 12 and 20 years, which makes it great for attaching solar panels that you&#;ll likely keep on your roof for decades. 

Mounting Solar Panels on Metal Roofs

Image by sam_higgins_rulz from Pixabay 

Metal roofs work great for solar panel installations and is one of the easiest to install on. If your home has a metal roof with standing seams, technicians can easily attach solar panels because they don&#;t require any drilling for attachment. And because there&#;s no need for drilling, there&#;s no need to hire contractors or crews, which saves you labor costs during the home solar installation process. 

Additionally, metal roofs are beneficial on homes and businesses in sunny, warm areas &#; such as Texas, Colorado and Florida. That&#;s because metal roofs reflect any light that doesn&#;t hit solar panels, which keeps houses and buildings cooler. 

One of the main reasons that people choose metal roofing for their homes is because of its impressive life cycle. A metal roof can last anywhere from 40 to 125-plus years. On the downside, a metal roof is about two to three times more expensive than other roofing materials and can be noisy during inclement weather. Luckily, if you have solar panels on your home, the panel system blocks some of the noise.

Mounting Solar Panels on Tile Roofs

Image by from Pixabay

If you have a tile roof, technicians can install solar panels using a standard penetrating mount that raises them slightly above the roof. Because tiles don&#;t always have uniform shapes, cutting or removing some tiles might be necessary to make way for mounts. In turn, this effort can result in extra labor costs. 

Tile shingles can be made of slate, concrete and clay. Installing solar panels on clay tile presents some hurdles that aren&#;t present with standard shingle roofs.

For one, how you move across the roof itself is radically different. Clay tile is highly resilient to the elements, but it&#;s not so resilient to installation teams&#; footsteps. However, solar power installers at Freedom Solar are meticulous when servicing this market &#; we&#;re well trained on moving across clay roofs without breaking tiles. 

Although tiled roofs are visually pleasing because they have more range in appearance, they&#;re typically heavier and more expensive than other roofing materials. (Granted, they&#;re not as expensive as metal roofs.) Nonetheless, they&#;re long-lasting and generally more waterproof than other roofing types. 

Tile roofing is widespread in California and Arizona, and it&#;s growing in popularity nationwide. For example, in areas like Central Texas, preferences are changing alongside spiking population rates. 

Mounting Solar Panels on Tar and Gravel Roofs

Photo by Gabriel on Unsplash

Although most tar and gravel rooftops are flat (some sloped roofs use tar and gravel), you can still install solar panels on them. However, you&#;ll need to ensure technicians mount and angle your solar panel system at 30 degrees with tilt brackets. This guarantees your panels receive optimal sunlight for energy generation. 

And even though working on flat roofs is easy, you should still consider hiring a labor crew or contractor to mount and orient your solar panel system. This is doubly true if you&#;re inexperienced with the installation process.

Many homeowners like tar and gravel rooftops because they&#;re budget-friendly and have about a 20- to 25-year life span. Plus, they have tight seals to prevent cracks and leaks and provide a strong, flat support surface for your solar panel system.

[Related: Here&#;s What You Need To Know Before Installing Solar Panels on Your Home]

What Is the Best Roof Angle for Solar Panels?

Ultimately, the best roof angle for solar panels is about 30 degrees to maximize energy output. However, that doesn&#;t mean solar panels won&#;t work for roofs with steeper or flatter slopes.

For optimal solar panel performance, you&#;ll want to add 15 degrees to your latitude in the winter, then tilt the solar panel system to whatever that number is. For the summer, subtract 15 degrees from your latitude and angle the solar panel system accordingly.

Can a Roof Be Too Steep for Solar Panels?

Most roofs aren&#;t extremely steep. Even if yours is, your solar panels will likely still function well enough to produce enough energy for your home. Although the ideal roof angle is about 30 degrees, if your roof tilt is at 40 degrees, this decreases energy generation by only about 1%. 

Any roof that&#;s over 40 degrees is probably too steep. If full energy independence is your goal, then a solar panel system might not be a feasible addition to your home. 

Solar Panels on Flat Roofs

You can find solar panels just as easily on flat rooftops as on sloped rooftops. 

The solar panel installation process for flat roofs is usually much simpler than it is for sloped roofs because it&#;s easier to move around. And that means the installation process is quicker.

Solar installations on flat roofs don&#;t need the penetration mounts that sloped roofs need for the system to stay secure. Alternatively, technicians use weighted mounting systems (aka ballast systems) for flat roofs, which don&#;t require drilling into the roof. This type of system eliminates the need for holes and uses gravity to ensure your solar panel system is stable. 

However, because flat roofs clearly don&#;t have an angle, technicians use tilt-up brackets to keep your system angled at 30 degrees. 

What Is the Best Direction for Solar Panels on Roofs?

The best direction for solar panels is south. But if your roof doesn&#;t face south, you can angle solar panels southeast or southwest. 

Depending on which hemisphere you live in, this answer could be the opposite. For people in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun travels along the southern part of the sky as the Earth orbits throughout the year, so your solar panels need to face south. Similarly, people in the Southern Hemisphere need to angle solar panels north (or northeast or northwest). 

How Much Roof Space Is Needed for Solar Panels?

The roof space you need for solar panels fully depends on your solar panel type and manufacturer, your home&#;s size and how much electricity you generally use daily. 

For example, 1 square foot of roof space can generate around 15 watts of solar energy with an average-sized solar panel. A smaller home might need only 200 square feet of roof space for panels. However, larger homes would need more solar panels &#; and thus more roof space (about 1,000 square feet) &#; to keep the lights on. 

If you use a lot of electricity, you&#;ll likely need more roof space to accommodate more solar panels to meet your power requirements. 

Generally speaking, average homes use from 19 to 23 solar panels, with each panel needing up to 18 square feet of space. Your roof should have about 400 to 600 square feet of available space. Plus, consider any skylights, dormers or chimneys that might decrease your total usable roof space. 

[Related: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?]

Roof Strength Requirements for Solar Panels

Solar panels and their required mounting equipment, whether penetration or weight mounts, typically weigh 3 to 4 pounds per square foot. Usually, this weight is acceptable for any roof type. 

However, solar panels with weighted ballasts on flat roofs generally weigh a bit more because concrete blocks hold the system in place. 

As long as your home has a fairly new roof that&#;s in decent condition, weighted ballasts are a fine solution. That&#;s especially true if you have Maxeon (previously SunPower) solar panels. Maxeon (previously SunPower) offers the lightest solar panels in the industry, at about 33 pounds per panel.

Are Solar Panels Bad for Your Roof?

Solar panels aren&#;t bad for your roof, but you should consider some factors, especially during the installation process. Because drilling is necessary to secure panels to the roof, the process leaves holes that could lead to water leaks over time. 

A professional solar panel company can ensure installation avoids long-term damage to your roof &#; and ultimately to your home. Because solar panel systems have a 30- to 35-year life cycle, it&#;s important that technicians install your panels correctly the first time around! 

And while drilled holes in your roof never seem appealing, numerous safety measures help ensure drilling won&#;t result in any damage. We&#;ll tell you a bit about the process.

First, technicians use drilled holes for lag bolts, which secure the solar panel system&#;s mounting rack. To avoid water leakage, technicians fill the holes with a sealant. Then, they surround the lag bolts with metal or plastic flashings &#; a sort of shield that fits under whatever roof tile type you have. Finally, they seal the flashings air-tight with either tar or another durable material to ensure your roof doesn&#;t suffer damage or seepage.

[Related: Uninstalling and Reinstalling Solar Panels]

Solar Panel Design Considerations: How To Get the Best-Looking Solar Panels

If you&#;re worried that solar panels might make your home look &#; not as appealing as you&#;d like, remember that you have options!

For example, black shingles typically look best with solar panels. Although black absorbs sunlight, which can make your home feel a bit warmer, darker roofs help blend the appearance of solar panels so that they don&#;t drastically stand out. 

At Freedom Solar, we offer solar panels in varying options. That said, their signature black aesthetic features all-black solar cells and antireflective glass, which look chic and sleek on any roof type.

And the benefits go beyond aesthetics. Whatever type of roof or solar panels you have, they&#;re a good look because they represent your character, values and commitment to sustainability.

[Related: 10 Questions To Ask Before You Consider Installing Solar Panels]

Contact Freedom Solar for Your Solar Panel Needs

To learn more about solar panels or the installation process for your home or business, contact solar power installers Freedom Solar today! Call us at (877) 795-, or submit an online inquiry. We&#;re ready to help you go solar anytime.

Freedom Solar also has it&#;s own solar repair and maintenance service department if needed. Our experienced team can maintain, repair and upgrade any system for maximum energy production and efficiency

Featured image credit: Ulrike Leone from Pixabay 

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