Solar shingles have emerged as an innovative alternative to traditional rooftop solar panels, combining the dual functionalities of roofing material and energy generation. By seamlessly integrating solar cells into shingle-like structures, they offer a more aesthetically pleasing option for homeowners looking to harness solar energy. In this blog, we’ll focus on solar shingles pros and cons.
Unveiling Solar Shingles Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Analysis
By combining the functionality of traditional roofing materials with solar power generation, these shingles offer a unique solution for homeowners and building owners looking to embrace sustainable energy practices. Through the points below, let’s learn about their pros and cons.
What are Solar Singles and How Do They Work?
Solar shingles are similar to regular solar panels. They use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity using semiconducting material, such as silicon. Commonly manufactured types of solar shingles are made using 2 types of solar cells:
- Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) Cells – Solar shingles with these cells are slim and malleable, renowned for their remarkable conversion efficiency.
- Monocrystalline Silicon Cells – These natural semiconductors in traditional solar panels have high efficiency but are expensive compared to CIGS cells.
Pros of Solar Shingles
The following are various solar shingles advantages you can benefit from.
1. Fire Resistant
Solar roofs have a very high fire rating of Class A, which means that they are an excellent material for areas where there is a high risk of fires. It is suitable for regions that are prone to sunny and dry conditions.
2. Increased Property and Resale Values
Investing in a new roof can significantly boost the value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers and ultimately enhancing its resale value. Solar roofs add value to your home and save you money. Such houses sell for 4% higher on average. This is the most famous advantage from the list of solar shingles pros and cons.
3. Long Lifespan
They last longer than regular shingles, guaranteeing optimal performance and efficiency for 25 to 30 years. The lifespan of solar shingles varies depending on the manufacturer and solar companies, as they offer their own warranties. For example, you get a 25-year warranty on Tesla solar roofs.
Note: Contact your shingle provider to understand warranty terms and maintenance instructions.
4. Low Maintenance
Solar roof tiles may require maintenance and repairs for early adopters. Durability and maintenance requirements are still being tested. In the long run, they may require less maintenance. This makes them more cost-effective than traditional systems.
5. Lower Utility Bills
The primary motivation for homeowners to invest in solar roof shingles is to decrease their energy expenses. With around 350 tiles, a standard residential setup can decrease the monthly energy expenses substantially ranging from 40% to 70%.
6. Sleek Aesthetics
With solar shingles, not only will your house be safeguarded like with traditional ones, but you will also enjoy a smart and contemporary look that seamlessly integrates with your roof covering.
7. Weather Resistant
Solar shingles are designed to withstand various weather conditions, just like regular roofing materials. They have a durable outer shell made of impact-resistant glass that is not easily broken. Solar tiles are resistant to impact and can withstand snow and ice. Solar roofs are suitable for regions prone to wind and hurricanes, like Florida, as they can withstand winds up to 130 mph.
Also Read: 9 Best Solar Shingles
Cons of Solar Shingles
Let’s explore their drawbacks now.
1. Complete Removal
It is not possible to replace half your roof with solar shingles. You need to replace the entire roof material to install solar shingles. Unlike solar panels, which are easily installed in the required amount and space.
2. Expensive Installation
Investing in a solar roof can require an initial investment start from $25,000. This doesn’t take into account the potential savings from the federal solar tax credit, if applicable in your region. The cost of installing solar shingles may vary depending on factors like the brand, type of roof, and installation expenses.
3. Complex Process
Installing solar shingles requires a licensed electrician for wiring. If your roof is in good shape, installation can take as little as one week, but it may take longer depending on the roofing company.
4. Limited Availability
Only 1% of all solar installations are made up of solar shingles, illustrating their small presence in the market. Many regions still lack access to new technology due to the limited availability of brands and products.
Also See: Solar Shingles Roofing Guide
5. Lower Efficiency
The power output of most solar tiles ranges from 13 to 63 watts. On average, installing 350 tiles can lower utility bills by 40% to 70%. However, installing solar panels can reduce energy costs by 90%. The energy efficiency of solar shingles is lower compared to that of traditional panels due to restricted airflow beneath the shingles.
6. Orientation
Solar shingle production relies on the orientation of the roof. They must be installed in a natural (south-facing) direction. Installing in the wrong direction reduces the average energy output of the system.
7. Return on Investment
On average, it takes around 6 to 15 years for homeowners to fully recover their investment with solar shingles. With traditional solar panels, the entire investment can be recovered in just five years. Installing a new roof can allow you to recover your entire investment, just like many others do. However, solar roofs are currently expensive because they rely on new technology that increases their ROI period. After understanding about solar shingles advantages and disadvantages, let us understand how they are beneficial.
Also Read: 3 Mono PERC Solar Panel Advantages and Disadvantages
What are the Benefits of Solar Shingles in Terms of Incentives and Rebates?
You can claim the government tax credit for installing solar shingles just like you can for solar panels. From 2022 to 2032 to install one, you can receive tax credit of around 30%. And the expenses that can be claimed to enjoy the benefits of solar shingles include the following:
- Sales tax on expenses and Solar panels or cells
- Balancing equipment – The list includes inverters, mounting equipment, and wiring
- Contractor labor costs – This include inspection costs and permitting fees
- Energy storage devices – Those with a capacity rating of 3 kilowatt-hours or more
In addition, various states enforce regulations on sustainable power, providing their own incentives and rebates.
Also Read: Can You Claim Solar Tax Credit Twice?
Solar Panels VS Solar Shingles: Key Differences
| Parameters | Solar Shingles | Solar Panels |
| Aesthetics | Modern | Bulky |
| Availability | Limited | Most regions |
| Lifespan | 25-30 years | 25-30 years |
| Installation | Minimum 1 week | Less than 1 day |
| Output | 13 to 63 watts per shingle | 250 to 400 watts per panel |
| Roof Type | Roof replacement or asphalt shingles re-roofing | Suitable with most roofing materials |
| Size | 12 x 86 x 1 inches | 39 x 65 inches |
| Weight | 13 pounds per square foot | 40 pounds each |
Solar shingles are more than just a simple addition to your roof; they are a comprehensive roofing solution. Whereas, traditional solar panels are a component of the roof. Both solar panels and shingles are building–integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs). They harness the power of the sun to generate electricity and have the same net metering policies. Regulations governing credits for surplus energy fed into the power grid by households or businesses utilizing renewable energy are also the same.
Also See: Solar Cell Vs Solar Panel – Exploring Key Differences
Are Solar Shingles Worth It?
An increasing number of states are now mandating the installation of solar systems in all new residential constructions. Solar shingles remain a novel and costly technology, even to this day. If you require a complete roof replacement, it is certainly worth considering them. When determining which option is best for your home, take into account the following things.
- Whether they are available in your region and if you can get a professional installer?
- Does your budget allow considering solar shingles?
- Possible location of installing them because you cannot adjust their angles
Solar shingles offer a visually appealing way to generate clean energy. However, their higher upfront costs and potential installation challenges require careful consideration. Understanding the pros and cons empowers homeowners to make informed decisions about this renewable energy solution. For more empowering solar content, keep reading.
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