The Tesla Solar Roof introduces an eco-friendly and energy-efficient solution for modern roofing needs. This roofing system features solar glass shingles and an integrated Powerwall battery to store the energy generated.
While it comes with a substantial price tag, it aims to provide long-term savings by significantly reducing or even eliminating a homeowner’s electricity expenses.
But how much does it cost exactly? Let’s find out!
How Much Does It Cost
Tesla offers a Solar Roof calculator on their official website to provide an estimate of the cost of installing a solar roof on your home.
The calculator takes into account factors such as your current electricity consumption, the size of your home, and other relevant variables.
Also, it’s worth noting that the price will change based on a number of factors which are as follows:
Complexity of Your Roof
Tesla has recently introduced a pricing structure based on the complexity of your roof for solar roof installations.
This classification categorizes roofs into simple, intermediate, and complex based on their characteristics, aiming to reflect the level of difficulty in installing a new roof. While your roof might not perfectly align with all the criteria of a specific category, in general:
- A simple roof is typically single-level with a low pitch and minimal obstructions.
- An intermediate roof is multi-level with a steeper pitch and more obstacles.
- A complex roof is multi-level with a steep pitch and numerous obstructions.
Our estimations using the Tesla Solar Roof calculator suggest that the cost difference could fall within the range of $5,000 to $10,000 between each category.
Roof Replacement
For proper installation, Tesla requires that the solar roof be installed on a single-layer 3-tab asphalt or composition shingle roof that is less than 20 years old. If your existing roof is made of a different material or is more complex, a full roof replacement is necessary.
This replacement cost can add approximately $10,000 to $15,000 to the total expenses.
Moreover, there might be additional costs and upgrades depending on the existing infrastructure of your home. Tesla notes that extra electrical work or installing a solar roof on structures like sheds or decks might be required.
The exact prices for such upgrades are determined during the inspection process and are not included in the initial estimate provided by the calculator.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re comfortable with the higher cost, in need of a roof replacement, and attracted to the modern and sleek appearance of Tesla’s solar shingles, then opting for a solar roof might be a suitable choice.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for more cost-effective alternatives while still boosting your home’s energy efficiency, Tesla’s solar panels or conventional solar panel systems could be more financially viable.
