Solar shingles provide protection against weather and other environmental elements for your home. They offer not only energy efficiency but also a more visually appealing appearance compared to the bulky solar panels commonly associated with solar energy.
Solar shingles operate similarly to solar panels, as both absorb sunlight and convert it into thermal or electrical energy. However, there are significant differences to consider when evaluating your home’s solar energy requirements.
These are the following:
Energy Output
The primary objective of solar installation is to reduce energy expenses, making it a crucial factor to consider.
Most solar shingles can generate power ranging from 13 to 63 watts. For a standard residential roof installation, the quantity of tiles used can lead to a reduction of 40% to 70% in utility bills. Increasing the number of tiles can further enhance energy output.
Lifespan
Solar shingles can have a lifespan that often exceeds 20 years. Nonetheless, their durability relies on the manufacturer and installation quality.
Warranty terms also differ; it’s important to distinguish between power and durability warranties when acquiring solar shingles. Power warranties can extend for several decades, reflecting their energy production, while durability warranties covering the shingles themselves can match the home’s lifespan.
Installation Time
Solar shingle installation can span up to a week, assuming your current roof is in good condition. If you’re constructing or renovating your roof before incorporating solar shingles, the process might take even longer.
Certain solar tile producers, such as Tesla, may take at least two or more weeks to complete the installation process.
Cost
Solar shingles can vary in cost, particularly based on the amount of square feet you need to cover and your preferred type. Before embarking on a solar shingle project, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your budget.
However, Tesla’s solar shingles, for example, can potentially exceed $70,000, and their installation process can be time-consuming. The overall expense of solar shingles is influenced by factors like roof size, household energy requirements, as well as the chosen manufacturer and installer.
Size
Solar shingles are similar in size to conventional roofing shingles, measuring around 12 inches in width and 86 inches in length. They weigh approximately 13 pounds per square foot and are relatively thin, with a thickness of less than an inch.
A standard solar roof installation typically requires around 350 solar shingles to cover the designated area.
