Are solar tiles as good as panels?

From a financial standpoint, there are two scenarios when solar shingles may be a better option than traditional solar panels:

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• If you are building a home and installing a new roof or,
• If your home needs a roof replacement.

In both cases, the cost of a new roof is unavoidable. If you are also considering solar panels, you can combine both installations into a single project by using solar shingles. Regular PV panels are more cost-effective if your roof is in good condition and expected to last for 25 years or more. In this case, the higher cost of a solar roof extends your payback period.

Solar roofing materials make the PV cells nearly invisible, which can be an attractive option for homeowners who don&#;t like the appearance of solar panels. But keep in mind the increased cost of a solar roof offers no added benefits unless you need a roof replacement.

In terms of warranty coverage and durability, solar shingles and traditional PV modules are evenly matched. For example, the Tesla solar roof comes with a 25-year product warranty, which is comparable to warranties offered by leading solar panel brands.

Solar shingles and solar panels share the same principles. They absorb sunlight and convert that energy into electrical power for a home or office. However, the noteworthy differences have less to do with technology than practicality:

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1.  Cost

Solar panels are less expensive than solar shingles. Shingles are a newer technology, and their installation process is more complex. Therefore, traditional solar panels have the cost advantage for people who already have a well-functioning roof. There are many providers and solar installation companies to choose from, which increases competition and drives down costs. However, for those who were already eyeing a roof replacement, solar shingles can make good long-term sense. Rather than getting a new roof and solar panels, the combined cost of solar shingles could be more cost- and time-effective.

2.  Efficiency

Although solar panels and solar shingles work on the same principle of photovoltaic effect, solar shingles are less efficient. That&#;s because solar shingles are directly attached to the roof and there&#;s no airflow underneath them. This results in more heat dissipation and less efficiency.

Also, solar panels are installed facing the sun, and they can later be removed and repositioned. However, solar shingles are built into the roof, so their location is fixed. Depending on the climate or home design, shingles may not always be positioned to capture maximum sunlight. This, too, reduces efficiency.

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3.  Flexibility

Replacing asphalt tiles, solar shingles are tailored to fit tilted or sloped roofs. However, solar panels can be installed on any roof type &#; including flat roofs. Moreover, once installed solar shingles as asphalt tiles get affixed in their position, they cannot be removed or detached from the roof. On the other hand, if you move to a new residence, solar panels can be easily relocated and attached at the new location. So, solar panels offer much more flexibility in mounting and repositioning.

4.  Dimensions

Solar shingles are similar in shape and size to traditional roofing tiles. The average size of a standard solar shingle is about to 86 inches long,12 inches wide and less than one inch thick. A typical solar tile&#;including all mounting equipment&#;puts about 15-20 pounds per square foot of weight on your roof. Alternatively, the average size of a typical residential solar panel is about 65 inches long, 39 inches wide and less than two inches thick. A typical solar panel weighs around 40 pounds and puts 3-4 pounds per square foot of weight on the roof. While you might think solar shingles are heavier, remember, shingles essentially are the roof. This means solar panels put dead weight on the roof. This is extra weight beyond the roof&#;s own weight.

5.  Aesthetics

Solar panels are primarily designed for functionality not aesthetic. They look bulky and can sometimes take up the entire area of a building&#; roof. The overall curb appeal of your home or office building may seem awkward after adding solar panels. Solar shingles are specifically made to look seamless. Their slim design gives your roof a nice and attractive look, just like traditional tiles on a fresh roof. Aesthetics is one of the main reasons why many people are interested in buying solar shingles.

6.  Longevity

Generally, the solar cell structure is made to offer durability for both solar panels and solar shingles. Both are designed for an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years. Although the technology is new, compared to traditional asphalt shingles, solar shingles are consider a better choice for roof longevity.

7.  Warranty

Another important thing you need to know before installing a solar system is what kind of warranty each manufacturer offers. Solar panels and shingles are both great ways to go green, but it&#;s important to know what kind of warranty you can expect from each type.

Solar panels typically come with a warranty that protects your investment. The product warranty provides coverage against manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship and typically lasts 25 years. If any issues arise due to such defects, the manufacturer will repair or replace the panels.

Solar shingle warranties provide essential protection and peace of mind for your solar energy system. The product warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship and typically lasts up to 20 years. During this period, the manufacturer will address any manufacturing defects.

It&#;s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of these warranties to understand what is covered and any limitations that may apply before making a purchase decision. Opting for solar systems from reputable manufacturers known for honoring warranty claims can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in solar energy.

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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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