In the U.S., residential solar installations have been continuously increasing during the last few years, reaching 1GWDC in the Q4 of .
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This solar energy adoption is driven by many factors, such as the cutting-edge technologies that are being developed, like instance solar shingles.
Out there in the market, there are many solar shingle manufacturers. To help you decide which brand and product is best for your needs, we chose 4 different solar shingle companies as an alternative to Tesla solar shingles. For each brand, we will check out the products they offer, breaking down their characteristics and more importantly let you know if a solar shingle might be a good match for you.
Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made from our affiliates through links in this article. (Learn More)Solar shingles are basically solar cells that convert the sun’s radiation into usable electricity, but also, they work as the roofing material for your home. These roofing solar cells are commonly shaped into shingles or tiles which are seamlessly arranged to provide structural support for the house roof and other types of buildings.
Using solar shingles allows you to have a roof that achieves two functions: generate clean energy and give your home, office or any other of your buildings, an aesthetic look.
Solar shingles or tiles are made of solar cells that are commonly manufactured using semiconductor materials, such as monocrystalline silicon and copper-indium-gallium selenide. The cells are assembled in bands or strips to form the shingle or tile shape.
In addition, since solar shingles are quite thin, this allows them to have greater flexibility and be lightweight.
Solar shingles or tiles perform as roofing material for your home. The main idea is to combine the solar cells with the roof sheathing rather than mounting solar modules on top of the shingles.
Solar shingle's basic principle works just the same as with conventional solar panels. In other words, the PV cells absorb sunlight in order to produce a flow of free electrons, which results in generating an electrical current that can power electrical equipment. The difference between solar shingles and solar panels is mainly their construction.
In order to help you analyze whether choosing solar shingles for your photovoltaic system is the right option, we summarize and list the pros and cons of having them:
The amount of money you are going to pay for installing solar shingles in your roof is going to depend on your energy usage, the conditions, and age of your roof, the solar shingle manufacturer, and other factors.
However, the cost of going with solar shingles can go anywhere from $20,000 to $70,000 whereas Tesla’s solar roof is generally located in the high-end scenario.
Elon Musk presented the Solar Roof back in . Since then, the product has gained huge popularity across the U.S. and other countries.
It’s clear that the Solar Roof provides a futuristic and sleek look for homes and other types of buildings. Although, the Solar Roof is quite an expensive product and still not as efficient as conventional solar panels.
Tesla’s Solar Roof consists of a rooftop built with solar shingles that contain solar cells. There are two types of shingles used in the final product design: the active ones, those which produce electricity, and the inactive ones, which just act as a roofing material. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using the Solar Roof.
Considering the previous facts, it would be interesting to look for possible alternatives to buy and install solar shingles. Let’s check out some of them.
Another important brand that has been leading the roofing technology in the US for a long time is CertainTeed. It offers two different product alternatives related to solar shingles.
In both Apollo Shingle II and Apollo Tile ll systems, 14 high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells are used in every tile/shingle with a power rating of 70 watts per piece. The conversion efficiency of the shingles and the tiles are 17.2% and 17.8% respectively. In addition, both have an operating temperature that can go anywhere between -40˚C and 90˚C.
Both systems are relatively easy to install, they are placed directly into the roof sheathing using standard deck screws, just as conventional asphalt and concrete tiles are installed.
Their weight is much less than conventional tiles at three pounds per square foot. Moreover, they are long-lasting withstanding up to 250 pounds per square foot. Also, they are waterproof and can resist high wind velocities of 140mph.
Apollo II provides all-black solar shingles which look like suitable solar stripes or bands placed over the roof.
On the other hand, Apollo Tile II matches the profile of flat concrete tiles. These tiles look like black solar laminate with a custom-colored frame that can complement a wide variety of earth-toned concrete tile colors.
The cost might change depending on your energy requirements, the difficulty of installation, your roof inclination, and roof age. However, some estimations are shown in the following table.
ProductCost per wattCertainTeed Apollo ll$6.40-$8.00CertainTeed Apollo Tile ll$7.64-$10.00These figures are estimated and subject to changes depending on the specifics of the project, which can elevate the costs by 25%.
CertainTeed offers a 25-year limited power warranty claimed to be all-encompassing. The coverage includes 25 years on installation workmanship, PV cells, microinverters, and mounting system. Also, comprises 12 years on optimized inverters, 10 years on wind, and 5 years on data monitoring hardware.
Another important player in the solar roofing industry is Suntegra, which claims to give a 2-in-1 roof and solar solution by providing solar cells that generate electricity and a roofing material that protects your home or building. It gives installers a cutting-edge way to integrate solar directly into the sloped roof of a house, commercial building, or carport.
Additionally, Suntegra products are regarded to be constructed with 50% fewer materials than conventional rack-mounted PV systems and thus, they might be an alternative to adjust efficiently to your budget.
The solar shingles of Suntegra offer 3 different models with a range of power output between 105W and 114W. All of them use 24 monocrystalline cells per piece, capable of achieving an electrical efficiency from 15.9% to 17.2%.
On the other hand, Suntegra tiles have lower efficiency than the shingles, ranging from 13.9% to 15.1%. Also, the tiles have 16 monocrystalline cells per piece.
Both tiles and shingles have a maximum wind rating of 130mph and a maximum static load rating of 112 pounds per square foot or 5,400Pa. In addition, the temperature operating range is the same as the Certainteed product (between -40˚C and 90˚C).
Both Suntegra shingles and tiles offer a low-profile, all-black, and pleasing-looking. They are characterized for being a discrete installation, almost hidden and barely noticeable from the ground level, which makes them an elegant design for any home or building.
Just as we did with the CertainTeed shingles and tiles, estimations on the cost are shown in the table below, which are subjected to variations depending on the conditions of your roof, energy requirements, and location.
ProductCost per wattSunTegra Shingle$3.80-$4.26SunTegra Tile$6.16-$6.57For both shingles and tiles, Suntegra offers a 10-year product warranty and a 25-year power output warranty.
In the few recent years, Forward startup company has had significant growth in the solar shingles market. Forward offers an engineered integration of the roof and the solar cells by the means of state-of-the-art technology and a unique aesthetic that matches the classical U.S. home.
They offer their star product called Forward Metal Solar Roof, claimed to be a cost-effective and efficient solution that harvests a great amount of clean energy while it gives a sleek and futuristic appearance using shining metal standing seam type of roof. The system comes in 8 different possible colors to cover all requirements.
It has a non-solar portions cost of $9.75 per square foot and a $3.75 per watt cost related to the solar parts, which are quite competitive compared to the previous brands mentioned. Also, it has a weatherization warranty of 30 years.
The product is claimed to achieve an energy density of 19 watts per square foot while having an excellent thermal performance by the means of a passive ventilation system, which optimizes the heat dissipation and the airflow between shingles and your roof deck.
Additionally, this design is claimed to be reliable, robust, long-lasting, and can withstand powerful mechanical forces. The most interesting fact about Forward is that they are probably the only valuable brand available that offers a solar-roof integrated solution based on metal standing seam roof type, making it perfect not only for homes but also for garages, barns, and other industrial types of roofs.
Luma Solar is another important interesting solar shingle company that has been gaining momentum for many years in the US. It’s recognized by having solar shingles products with a high rate of electrical efficiency while also having a futuristic, seamless, and luxurious looking. Luma offers results in your house that have combinations between active and inactive solar shingles.
The price changes depending on the conditions, roof complexity, energy requirements, and others. However, estimations set the average cost of the solar shingles of Luma at $4.5 per watt and could go up to $38 per square foot.
Additionally, it offers a 25-year limited power warranty at 80% and a 5-year limited product warranty.
Luma Solar Roof claims to have solar shingles with an incredible conversion efficiency of 22,1%, which is even higher than standard solar panels. It uses 16 monocrystalline 80W cells per shingle.
It handles a temperature operation range between -40˚C to 85˚C, having a great thermal and airflow management that maintains excellent levels of energy yields.
Additionally, every shingle weighs 19.8 lbs., and they are designed to withstand mechanical forces of 2,400 Pa for static wind loading and 5,400 for static load snow loading.
Luma offers a distinguished good looking for your house, not only because of its futuristic appearance but also because of the Matte black finish, which gives a sleek line.
All the products mentioned above will provide an extraordinary aesthetic view for your home. Not to mention that some of them will offer the functionality of performing as the roofing material and act as the structural support by the means of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).
If you are only looking for a solar PV system, installing solar shingles in the roof of your home can be an interesting alternative to go with if your requirements are more focused on aesthetical objectives than on cost-effective and efficient goals. From an economical point of view, it is still hard for solar shingles to compete with conventional solar panel systems.
However, in cases where changing your roof is necessary, solar shingles may present themselves as a more economically viable choice that combines both approaches into one for a cost similar to a solar panel system plus roof installation. In some other cases, replacing your roof may not be what you need, but the structural engineer may require you to replace the roof to make the solar panel installation feasible. If you find yourself in a situation like that, you may want to reconsider going with a solar shingle installation.
Another situation where solar roof shingles can definitely be a great choice is for new houses. Choosing solar shingles since the construction process can drastically reduce the cost impact, increase your ROI, and ease the installation process.
In any case, if you are interested in solar shingles, it is advisable for you to get a quote for your roof-specific layout and compare it with other conventional solar panel systems plus roofing installation quotes. This will allow you to find out which approach would best suit your needs. However, keep in mind that in the end, the house will always look better with solar shingles, which is a plus to consider for the value of your property.
Finally, shingled solar panels are an innovative technology which is carrying out a wide range of advanced features in terms of solar energy optimization.
They should not be confused with solar shingles, which are part of BIPV, whereas solar shingled panels are more similar to standard solar panels but with cells that are cut into several strips that are subsequently connected to form modules by the means of an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA).
Major developments on this technology have taken place in the residential sector so far. Solar shingled panels are a promising technology that is much less expensive and more efficient technology than solar shingles.
We have examined multiple solar shingle products and brands with the objective to show you some of the best brands available in the market today. We learned that a solar roof shingle investment is a solution that must balance aesthetics and functionality where the new shingles of your roof will actually be generating electricity.
However, we also learned that the decision to install it must be balanced with the costs for such type of project since they can be considerable depending on the house. New houses or cases where a roof replacement is required due to structural stability reasons, are probably the best ones for solar shingle installations. In these cases, the economics can definitely be balanced with the benefits of a high-end finish.
Solar shingles still have a long way to go and with the variety of products available for multiple roof types that go from shingles, concrete standard tiles, and even metal standing seam, there are plenty of choices that you can consider to start generating clean energy and potentially improve the look for your house.
*Last updated: February 15,
GAF solar shingles combine renewable energy with durable, visually appealing roofing. These advanced shingles integrate seamlessly into roofs, providing homeowners with an energy-efficient option that doesn’t compromise aesthetics. GAF solar shingles not only reduce energy bills but also support environmental sustainability by harnessing the power of the sun.
The company is the world’s best top 10 BIPV 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.
Here are six innovative features of GAF solar shingles that make them a standout choice for energy-conscious homes.
✔ GAF solar shingles offer a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly with traditional roofing materials.
✔ Advanced photovoltaic technology in GAF solar shingles ensures consistent performance in various weather conditions.
✔ GAF solar shingles are built to withstand extreme weather, including high winds, hail, and heavy rain.
✔ Seamless integration with traditional roofing systems makes GAF solar shingles easy to install.
✔ GAF solar shingles promote environmental sustainability by reducing carbon footprints and generating renewable energy.
✔ The cost-effectiveness of GAF solar shingles is enhanced through energy saving and tax incentives.
✔ Professional assessment and proper installation ensure that GAF solar shingles provide optimal energy output.
GAF solar shingles are designed to seamlessly integrate with traditional roofing, offering a modern alternative to bulky solar panels. Their low-profile design ensures the roof maintains a cohesive, polished look while generating renewable energy. This combination of aesthetics and functionality makes GAF solar shingles a practical choice for homeowners who value both style and sustainability.
Why the Sleek Design of GAF Solar Shingles Stands Out
How to Maximize the Sleek Design of GAF Solar Shingles
GAF solar shingles are engineered with advanced photovoltaic technology to maximize energy output. These shingles capture and convert sunlight into renewable energy with high efficiency, even in less-than-ideal conditions. This helps reduce energy costs while supporting sustainable energy practices.
Why the Energy Efficiency of GAF Solar Shingles Matters
How GAF Solar Shingles Maximize Energy Efficiency
GAF solar shingles are built to endure harsh weather conditions while maintaining optimal performance. From heavy rain to high winds, these shingles are designed to protect the home and provide reliable energy production. Their durability also ensures a long lifespan, which reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Why Durability of GAF Solar Shingles Is Essential
How GAF Solar Shingles Ensure Durability
GAF solar shingles are designed to work with traditional roofing materials. Their integration into the roof ensures a seamless appearance without compromising energy efficiency. This compatibility simplifies installation and ensures long-term reliability.
Why Seamless Integration Is a Game-Changer
How to Ensure Seamless Integration with GAF Solar Shingles
Solar PVs and wind energy accounted for 96% of renewable energy generated in and are forecasted to double their generation by . GAF solar shingles contribute to a more sustainable future by generating clean, renewable energy. These shingles reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help lower carbon emissions, making a positive impact on the environment.
Why the Environmental Benefits of GAF Solar Shingles Matter
How GAF Solar Shingles Support Sustainability
GAF solar shingles offer significant financial benefits through reduced energy bills and eligibility for tax incentives. Their dual function as a roofing material and energy generator also makes them a cost-effective investment. Over time, they provide substantial savings while increasing home value.
Why GAF Solar Shingles Are Cost-Effective
How GAF Solar Shingles Deliver Long-Term Savings
Before installing GAF solar shingles, it is essential to evaluate whether a roof is suitable for this innovative solar technology. Professional installers conduct a thorough assessment to ensure the roof can support the shingles and optimize energy production.
1. Inspect Roof Age and Condition
Professionals examine the roof’s age and overall condition to determine its readiness for GAF solar shingles. Roofs nearing the end of their lifespan may require replacement or repairs before installation. Cracked shingles, leaks, or structural weaknesses must be addressed to ensure a stable foundation. A well-maintained roof ensures the solar shingles perform efficiently and last their expected lifespan.
2. Evaluate Roof Structure and Load Capacity
Roof installers assess the structural integrity of the roof to confirm it can handle the additional weight of GAF solar shingles. While these shingles are designed to be lightweight, the underlying structure must still support them without compromising safety. Professionals check for any underlying weaknesses, such as rotted wood or sagging areas, and recommend reinforcements if necessary.
3. Determine Roof Orientation and Sunlight Exposure
The roof’s orientation and exposure to sunlight play a critical role in the efficiency of GAF solar shingles. Installers analyze which parts of the roof receive the most sunlight throughout the day, prioritizing sections with optimal exposure. Roofs facing south typically perform best, but professionals account for shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions.
4. Measure Roof Size and Usable Surface Area
Professionals measure the total roof area and identify sections suitable for GAF solar shingles installation. Complex roof designs with multiple slopes, dormers, or vents may reduce the usable surface area for solar shingles. Accurate measurements ensure the installation plan accommodates both the energy needs and the aesthetic requirements of the roof.
5. Verify Roofing Material Compatibility
The type of existing roofing material influences the installation process and compatibility with GAF solar shingles. Professionals check whether the current roofing material, such as asphalt, metal, or tile, is suitable for integrating solar technology. In some cases, they may recommend removing incompatible materials or installing a new base layer to ensure a seamless and secure fit.
Selecting the right installer in Poughkeepsie, NY, is crucial for ensuring a seamless and efficient GAF solar shingles installation. A professional installer brings the expertise needed to integrate solar shingles with the roofing system while maintaining optimal performance.
By focusing on the factors below, homeowners can find a reliable installer to maximize the benefits of GAF solar shingles:
1. Certification and Experience
The installer should be GAF-certified, ensuring they have the specialized training and knowledge required to handle GAF solar shingles. Certification demonstrates that they are familiar with the unique installation process and the technical aspects of integrating solar shingles into a roofing system. Experience with similar projects is equally important, as it ensures the installer can navigate complex installations and address potential challenges.
2. References and Reviews
Reputable installers should have a track record of satisfied customers, which can be verified through references and online reviews. Feedback from previous clients often highlights the installer’s communication, professionalism, and quality of work. Specific reviews mentioning GAF solar shingles can provide valuable insights into their expertise with this product.
3. Warranty and Support Services
A reliable installer will offer warranties on both the GAF solar shingles and their workmanship. This ensures that any defects or installation issues are addressed without additional costs to the homeowner. Installers should also provide post-installation support, such as maintenance advice or troubleshooting assistance. Comprehensive warranty and support services reflect the installer’s commitment to long-term customer satisfaction.
4. Pricing and Transparency
While cost is a consideration, it’s essential to prioritize transparency over the lowest bid when choosing an installer for GAF solar shingles. A trustworthy professional will provide a detailed, itemized estimate outlining material, labor, and additional costs. This clarity homeowners understand the scope of the project and avoid unexpected expenses.
Are GAF solar shingles compatible with battery storage systems?
GAF solar shingles are fully compatible with battery storage systems, allowing homeowners to store excess energy for later use. This setup is particularly beneficial during power outages or at night when solar energy production is low. Professionals can recommend and install compatible battery systems to optimize energy efficiency. Combining GAF solar shingles with battery storage enhances energy independence and reduces reliance on the electrical grid.
What is the lifespan of GAF solar shingles compared to traditional solar panels?
GAF solar shingles have a comparable lifespan to traditional solar panels, typically lasting 25 years or more with proper maintenance. The durable materials used in these shingles ensure they withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining energy production efficiency. Unlike traditional panels, GAF solar shingles also function as roofing materials, adding an extra layer of protection for the home.
Do GAF solar shingles require special maintenance?
GAF solar shingles require minimal maintenance beyond standard roof upkeep. Occasional cleaning to remove debris and ensuring the system remains free from obstructions are the primary tasks. Annual inspections by a professional can help identify and address any potential issues with energy production or structural integrity. Their durable design minimizes the need for frequent repairs, making them a low-maintenance option for solar energy generation.
Can GAF solar shingles be installed on all types of roofs?
While GAF solar shingles are compatible with many roof types, certain factors like roof pitch, material, and structural integrity may affect their suitability. Flat roofs or those made from incompatible materials may require modifications or a new roofing system. Professional installers assess these factors to determine whether the roof can support solar shingles effectively. This evaluation ensures the shingles are installed safely and perform optimally in the long term.
Lyndsey Roofing, LLC in Poughkeepsie, NY, brings expertise and precision to GAF solar shingles installation, offering a seamless way to enhance energy efficiency for homes. As a trusted local roofing company, Lyndsey Roofing, LLC provides professional guidance and exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring every project meets the highest standards. With GAF solar shingles, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy without compromising style.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a sustainable, energy-efficient future!