Can You Cover Your Entire Roof with Solar Panels. Whole roof solar panels

Thinking of getting a Tesla Solar Roof? Here’s everything you need to know

By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Use and Policies You may unsubscribe at any time.

First launched in 2016, Elon Musk’s Solar Roof system has taken the photovoltaic (PV) world by storm. Tesla’s Solar Roof is not the only solar roof tiles on the market but is some of the most attractive and most expensive.

Solar tiles offer a completely different approach to solar PV installations, the final product is, inarguably, far superior in aesthetic terms to traditional solar PV installations, and seeks to add a cool factor to generating your own power.

While Tesla claims its Solar Roof is competitive in terms of providing a two-for-one solution (you do get a new roof after all), ultimately, the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

So, is Tesla’s Solar Roof all it’s cracked up to be? Let’s take an honest look.

What is Tesla’s Solar Roof?

Tesla’s Solar Roof, like other solar roof tiles, is an innovative system of specially engineered roofing tiles or shingles. Unlike conventional solar PV panels that are mounted onto an existing roof, a solar roof acts as a direct replacement for existing roof coverings.

The system allows potential customers to benefit from generating their own power without unduly affecting the aesthetics of their homes. Win-win.

Tesla’s Solar Roof consists of two main types of textured glass tile shingles. The first is purely decorative and is termed inactive. These look exactly the same as the second kind, called Active, to ensure a uniform look of the finished roof.

The Active shingles are effectively small, shingle-sized solar panels that are integrated into the main roof surface in strategic places to maximize their efficiency. In most cases, most of the south or west-facing areas of a roof will consist of Active shingles, with the rest of the surface consisting of the visually similar Inactive shingles.

Active shingles, like conventional solar panels, will also be fitted as close to the best angle of incidence to the Sun’s rays throughout the year. In the northern hemisphere, this is as close to a 60 degrees inclination as possible, which, on most domestic homes is around 30-45 degrees, depending on the pitch of your existing roof.

Of course, if you choose to install a Solar Roof, your old roof will need to be stripped and replaced in totality.

The system can also be used with a Tesla Solar Inverter to convert the direct current generated by the shingles to useable alternating current in your home. While non-Tesla inverters can also be used, the use of Tesla’s own proprietary equipment ensures the systems will run with fewer potential snags.

This inverter also enables you to tag on a Tesla Powerwall battery to store excess energy, if desired.

The system was developed in a collaboration between Tesla and its subsidiary SolarCity and was first announced in 2016. It wasn’t until 2018 that Tesla and SolarCity were in a position to begin the manufacture and delivery of their first Solar Roofs, however.

Since then, Tesla has continued to make improvements to the technology, with its latest variant, Solar Roof V3, boasting the best efficiency and durability to date. The product comes with a generous 25-year weatherization warranty.

Great, but what are some of the downsides? One is whether Tesla actually serves your geographical area.

For the most part, Tesla should be able to provide an installation in most of the continental United States. However, in some states, they may use authorized installers to do so.

The same is true for other parts of the world, with the rollout continuing around the world. If you are interested in finding out if they serve your area, the best thing to do is contact Tesla, or try to get a quote, and they will tell you.

How much does a Tesla solar roof cost?

According to data from actual Tesla quotes, their Solar Wall system costs approximately 1.80 per generated watt of electricity for their Active shingles. The cost of their Inactive shingles then varies depending on the complexity of the roof in question.

For simple roofs, i.e., basic pitched roofs start at around 13.30 per square foot. For more tricky roofs like hipped roofs or multiple-level roofs, these shingles should cost about 15.30 per square foot. For more complex roofs (i.e. cross-gabled, steep or variable pitched, multiple heights, or lots of obstacles), costs could be as high as 18.54 per square foot.

You will also be charged for the removal and disposal of your old roof at a rate of around 3.55 per square foot.

Just like any solar energy installation, the actual cost will vary depending on the size of roof coverage, location, and construction of the building. Smaller pitched roofs on a single-story home will be considerably cheaper than a large complex roof on a multi-story building, for example.

This is for a variety of reasons, but chief among them are additional costs for access equipment to higher roofs or increased time in labor to design and install the roof on larger and more complex roofs like cross-gabled roofs.

Tesla may also require customers to upgrade their electrical systems in order to actually work with their Solar Roof system. Upgrading elements like electrical panels can cost anywhere in the region of 5,000 and up.

However, to give you a rough estimate, using Tesla’s own calculator, a good-sized family home would cost around 70,000 dollars to install an 8.05 kW system before tax incentives. This quote is based on a home in Nashville, Texas, with a floor area of 2,500 feet 2 (232 m 2 ) and using an average monthly energy bill of 115 (this was the U.S. average in 2019, according to the EIA).

This, according to Tesla’s estimates, should be able to produce for this hypothetical home, somewhere in the order of 12,800 kWh/year, or roughly 100% of the building’s electrical energy consumption. You also get the added bonus (for additional cost) of energy storage with this system, which is a considerable advantage over some conventional domestic solar panel arrays.

If this estimate is accurate, that should provide a payback period (the time taken to recover your initial investment) of about 50 years, give or take. This will likely be closer to 40 years after tax incentives are factored in to reduce your initial capital outlay.

Another estimate for a 1,700 ft 2 (158m 2 ) roof in California with an electrical bill of 150 per month came in at 39,000 before incentives for a 6.13-kilowatt system. It should be noted that this quote was generated in 2022 and for a different state, so costs likely vary for that reason.

You should also remember that energy costs from the grid are likely to rise over time, so the true payback will likely be much shorter, ignoring any maintenance and cleaning costs of course.

We’ve chosen this square footage as it is about the average size of a new family home in the United States.

To put that into perspective, installing a similarly sized conventional solar panel array would cost around 26,000 before incentives. Using the same statistics as above would give you an equitable payback of between 15 and 22 years, depending on tax incentives.

However, remember that the estimated lifespan of conventional solar panels is also roughly 25 to 30 years, so you would probably need to replace the array after a few decades.

It should be noted, however, that such estimates should be taken with a pinch of salt. The final figures will likely vary widely depending on where your home is located if you were to actually order an installation.

This is especially the case for conventional solar panel installations and you are always advised to source several quotes from recommended installers before authorizing any work.

Any and all costs for such installations should also include any planning and design work required prior to the installation. This will not only ensure the costings are as accurate as possible but also discover if your existing roof is appropriate for such an installation.

The latter is less relevant for Tesla solar roofs, as these tend to be a direct replacement for your existing roof covering.

You should also note that costs are likely to vary over time as labor, consumable, and material costs will fluctuate, given the current economic climate. There may be other costs, too, such as various local authority planning requirements, where relevant.

Solar panels vs. Tesla solar roof: which one is better?

Generally speaking, on a per watt average cost, Tesla’s Solar Roof is actually pretty reasonable, all things considered. According to some estimates, in the United States, Tesla’s come in at around 1.80 per watt. Traditional solar PV panels tend to cost around 3.00 per watt.

However, any direct comparison between the two is complicated by a few factors. The first is that Tesla’s Solar Roof is not just some PV solar panels but actually a new roof and some PV panels in one package.

Traditional solar PV panels are where your roof can handle it, simply mounted to an existing roof without needing to replace it. So, in order to provide a fair comparison, we’ll need to do a like-for-like summing up.

Can You Cover Your Entire Roof with Solar Panels?

Installing solar panels is a practical way to reduce your home energy costs and even eliminate your monthly electricity bills.

In states with favorable net metering policies, you can return any excess solar electricity to the utility company for credit against your future electricity use. For these reasons, you might think it makes sense to fill your entire roof with PV modules, to maximize your photovoltaic output.

Unfortunately, this might not be the wisest course of action.

Covering Your Roof with Solar Panels May Raise Structural Concerns

For practical reasons, most homes in the U.S. have not been structurally engineered with photovoltaic panels in mind.

PV modules weigh roughly 40 pounds each, and that doesn’t include the mounting racks and hardware. While most homes can support an average-sized solar array, the majority are not capable of bearing the weight of an entire rooftop of photovoltaic panels.

In addition, many cities and homeowners associations impose setback requirements for the installation of solar modules. The array must be situated to provide firefighters with adequate rooftop access in the event of an emergency. And although many HOAs now allow residents to take advantage of rooftop alternative energy systems, most restrict the percentage of the rooftop that can be used for that purpose.

Roof Orientation and the Placement of Solar Panels

Rooftop orientation plays a large role in photovoltaic output. In the Intermountain West states, PV modules installed on south-facing roofs are most effective for capturing the sun’s energy.

West- and east-facing rooftops can also work for generating solar energy, with the right design. However, north-facing panels will provide little value for most homeowners. As a result, extending a photovoltaic array over the entire roof is probably not a good investment.

Shading is also a consideration. Adding solar modules to a part of the roof that doesn’t have full access to sunlight is usually not cost-effective.

Extra Solar Panels Extend the Payback Period

The more solar panels you include in your photovoltaic system, the higher the cost. And the higher the investment cost, the longer it takes to reach payback, the point at which the PV modules have paid for themselves.

Net metering can help solve this problem, but not every state in the Intermountain West offers credits for excess solar electricity production. Some utility companies limit the amount of net metering credit homeowners can receive each year, with no compensation offered for any overage.

For these reasons, it’s important that your solar panel system is designed to meet your family’s energy needs. This ensures that you leverage your investment for maximum cost savings and energy independence.

The professional team at Intermountain Wind Solar can recommend an appropriate size for your solar array, so you can maximize your photovoltaic output and get a timely payback on your investment. Contact us today to schedule a solar panel consultation in Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming or Nevada.

Roof Replacement With Solar Panels: How To Make the Most of It

Many homeowners, when it’s time to replace their roof, wonder if solar panel roof replacement is a practical undertaking.

Others who are looking for ways to lower their home emissions and disconnect from the energy grid, find that placing solar panels on their roof will require an upgrade.

The reason is that some older roof structures can’t support the tracking and mounting requirements for the panel energy system.

So, if you’re considering solar panel roof replacement for either reason, knowing the costs involved, as well as the options you have for taking advantage of solar energy tax breaks can help you choose the type and size of the system you’ll need.

This complete guide to solar panel roof replacement outlines how to conduct the construction so that the transition to green power will be the most cost efficient and simple as possible.

You can calculate the number of solar panels you’ll need using this calculator:

Do I Need To Replace My Roof for Solar Panels?

Many homes have the structural support needed for installing solar panels on the roof.

However, there are some situations where the need to replace your roof after installing solar panels arises. 1

In such cases, you’ll be forced to eliminate the panels, replace the roof, and re-install them to meet their initial standard or even better.

Among various costs incurred during the re-installation procedure include the removal charges, replacing worn-out materials with new ones, re-installation services, and storage services, especially if you don’t have personal storage spaces.

New Roof Installation vs Repair Before Installing Solar Panels: Solar Panel Roof Replacement

Because using solar panels can help reduce utility bills and carbon footprint, many homeowners want to install them, but the cost of replacing the roof deters them.

Although replacing the roof can minimize the chances of solar panel roof damage and save you from constant repairs, many people think it’s not necessary for them. 4

High-quality roofs made under stable conditions and with durable materials have a lifespan ranging between 25 and 30 years. That way, roofs around ten years of age and without a previous replacement can withstand the installation of solar panels to proceed with their lifespan.

The move allows homeowners to enjoy more years with their original roofs and gives them time to prepare their s for a forthcoming replacement.

For safety, allow a roofing or solar installation professional to inspect the roof before you can proceed to install the solar panels, to determine if the surfaces can withstand the procedure. 3

Roofing experts also ascertain if the roof requires any repairs and offer crucial advice before moving on with the installation. It may be risky to install solar panels on a roof whose expiry date is approaching as it may not be strong enough for the process.

What Is the Total Home Roofing Cost for Roof Replacement With Solar Panels?: Cost Solar Panel Roof Replacement

As highlighted earlier, roofs with excess damage require to be repaired before solar panels can be installed on them. So, how much will the whole roof replacement cost?

According to Forbes 2023, homeowners require a total of 6,700 to 80,000 or 11,500 to replace a roof from a standard-size house, while the average roof replacement time is 3 to 5 days. 7

Of course, the lower amount is generally the estimate for only replacing the roofing materials (asphalt shingles, metal sheets, etc.), not the frame structure.

A frame structure replacement will be considerably more expensive and will require much more time.

Replacing a Roof Without Solar Panels

The cost and number of days are not permanently fixed but vary from one home to another due to various factors, including:

Labor refers to the manpower needed to finalize the entire solar panel’s roof replacement process, which significantly affects the cost and time taken for the process. Its cost primarily relies on the laborer and contractor’s level of skills and experience.

The time taken to finish roof replacement with solar panels is essential. According to research, the average cost of replacing a roof with solar panels is between 2 and 7 per square foot.

However, some contractors may promise to perform the task better and quicker than usual, and maybe at a lower price. You should always be cautious due to the rising cases of scamming and lies.

While there are many types of roofs in the market, experts have highly recommended asphalt shingles as the best roof for solar panels due to their affordability and quality.

Metal roofing can also serve the purpose excellently because it’s durable and resistant to hostile weather conditions. You can also find some ideal shingle roofs such as slate, tile, and cedar shake which are slightly priced higher than the above ones but offer greater services. Other roofing materials that also affect the time and cost of solar panel roof replacement include water and ice shields, ridge capping, and underlayment.

Normally, roofs boasting a large surface usually cost more during solar panel replacement regarding the number of materials and labor required for the procedure. Additionally, those with complex designs have the same impact on the cost

Another factor that significantly affects the cost and time consumed during solar panel roof replacement is the pitch of your roof. A sharper roof pitch will require more labor, time, and materials to construct compared to lower one

Replacing a Roof With Solar Panels

The above costs will cover replacing a roof without solar panels.

(Image: Solar Energy Technologies Office 14 )

But you will incur more costs if you already have solar panels on your roof.

Solar Panels Removal Cost

Don’t be surprised that you must get rid of the solar panels to replace a roof, meaning you will be solar energy-free during the entire roof replacement period. During such time, you will have to use utility grid power until the process ends.

(Image: Energy South Carolina 15 )

Additionally, a solar company is responsible for removing and re-installing solar panels thanks to their unmatchable skills and experience. You can also choose to go for professional roofers and solar installers alongside the main solar company to minimize the time consumed in the process. 7

Remember to comprehensively engage the leasing company if you choose to lease the solar panels to stay in line with the contract’s regulations.

So, how much does it cost to remove solar panels? The cost of removing solar panels from a roof usually lies between 300 and 1,000 per panel, which, however, depends on various factors, including:

The Company You Hire

Different companies charge different hourly rates for installing solar panels. Ensure to research comprehensively to evaluate the average charges of different companies within your town so as to prepare yourself adequately.

While hiring cheaper companies seems like an opportunity to save yourself some pennies, remember to evaluate the quality of their skills.

The Condition of the Panels: Is Solar Panel Repair Required?

Normally, worn-out solar panels usually require repair before being re-installed; the cost of repair mainly depends on the degree of damage. For example, solar panels with broken glass will cost less to repair while those functioning slower than required cost more to repair as sometimes you might need to fully replace them partially or entirely.

The Condition of the Solar System Hardware

Damages can possibly occur to your solar panels’ hardware such as racking systems, inverters, and mounts during removal. Replacing such pieces usually adds cost to the process.

The Weather

The best time to re-roof or install solar panels is during the dry season or when the weather is clear. However, if damages happen during winter, there might be no other option but to repair or replace the roof or solar panels.

(Image: Photo by Terry Thompson, U.S. Department of Energy 16 )

In such cases, homeowners may be forced to pay more for the process than they would under favorable weather conditions.

The Location of Your Home

Your home’s location has a great influence on the cost of removing and re-installing solar panels. For instance, if your home is situated in risky places such as around the tropical rainforests, you may incur more than usual for the services due to the risks involved.

Furthermore, you might be required to purchase or hire some special tools for the job, adding to the time and cost.

The Process of Removing and Reinstalling Solar Panels

The solar company is responsible for what follows after hiring them to remove and reinstalling solar panels. 3 However, the procedure usually involves:

#1: Site Visit

Removing and reinstalling solar panels starts with the solar company visiting the site to evaluate the panel and roof’s prevailing condition. During the visit, the company will estimate the time and finances required for removal and reinstallation of solar panels, possible drawbacks, and other essential information.

You can also hire expert roofers so that they can work together with the solar company for great results. Professionals advise homeowners to liaise with their original solar company who are more familiar with the system instead of hiring new one.

#2: Removal of the Solar System

Removal of the solar panel commences by stopping the flow of current and disconnecting the panels from each other. After that, the laborers will progressively remove the panels from the mounted surface.

Lastly, they’ll remove the hardware and all electric cables. At this point, the roofers can begin their work.

#3: Making Solar Repair

As the roofers are working on roof repairs, the solar technician should also repair the solar if necessary. How long this process usually takes depends on the extent of repairs required.

Minor damages, such as broken glass, are easy to repair, while severe damages may require you to replace the solar panels.

#4: Re-Installation and Review

When the roofing is done and the solar panels have been repaired, 1 the solar company re-installs the panels on the roof. The panels can be returned in their initial position or a different one for more effective results but only if the installer recommends changes.

After the re-installation, the solar company reviews the setup to ascertain that it’s operating properly without possible breakdowns.

Solar Panel Maintenance Cost After Reinstallation

Once the solar panels are back on the roof, they are easy to maintain. They only need an annual checkup by a professional to evaluate their functionality and determine underlying problems possibly triggered by factors such as solar panel damage from hail. 10

Additionally, remember to clean occasionally to eliminate debris from dust particles and dry leaves that can otherwise deter sun rays from reaching the panels, hence minimizing the power output. When it’s rainy, the rain usually cleans the debris; therefore, you should FOCUS on the panels more during dry seasons.

Professionally recommend an annual cleaning of solar panels for great functionality. However, if you have large trees around that shed their leaves heavily, especially on windy days, you may have to clean the panes regularly.

In addition, solar PV power systems usually subject their owners to more regular maintenance.

But how do you know when the system needs maintenance? You can find out by checking if the energy output matches the required power as indicated in the manufacturer’s guide.

While you can do light maintenance like cleaning, abnormalities in the power output require a solar service expert.

How much does solar system maintenance cost? The cost of solar system maintenance depends on various factors, including location, house height, panel condition, and system design; you might pay between 250 and 750.

When you require the solar company to clean the panels, it will cost you an average of 15 and 35 per panel while a yearly inspection goes between 150 and 350. However, you might pay more when an inspection has an underlying issue that requires a repair or replacement to boost the system’s performance. 5

Solar and Roofing Companies: Can You Hire One Company To Repair Roof and Remove Solar System?

Solar panel roof replacement can be costly but very important for every home. However, sometimes financial constraints can have you wondering if professional installers are necessary for the removal and reinstallation of solar panels.

You should unquestionably hire professional installers for solar panel removal and reinstallation. This is because they understand the complexity of the installation process and must handle the electrical connections and interconnections between panels to maximize the solar output.

While some expert roofers can remove solar panels, and mounting systems, and disconnect the cables, they aren’t experienced with repairing or determining an underlying issue with the system. 2

You should evaluate the roofers’ skills regarding solar panel removal and reinstallation before hiring them for the sake of your finances. You can be assured of the value of your money back through great services with professional roofers as opposed to less-skilled and cheaper ones. The professionals know how to install solar panels on roof.

The good thing is that there are several companies in nearly every town primarily focused on roofing and solar installation. Hiring them can assure you effective results and a reduction in the solar panel replacement cost.

Check for any company within your area and inquire about roof replacement solar panels tax credit.

Can You Mount Solar Panels on the Ground Instead of Roof Solar Panels?

Many homeowners choose to mount solar panels on the ground rather than above the ground as it’s cheaper when the laborers use the roofs as the foundation.

However, this isn’t always possible, for example, some roof pitches are not ideal for solar panels.

The idea also saves homeowners plenty of space on their property for other essentials, especially in tiny homes. 10

(Image: Photo submitted by Chris Wingard, U.S. Department of Energy 13 )

Even so, mounting solar panels can be a great idea if you don’t have enough space on the roof or have a large compound.

In fact, ground mounted panels often are able to utilize tracking systems to maximize the amount of direct sunlight. 3

How To Replace Roof Shingles

It’s essential to examine your roof regularly to replace damaged shingles as they can significantly impact the longevity of the roof. 5 Here is how you replace roof shingles:

Check the corners around the shingle. Are they curled or pulled up from the roof? Check the area around them for signs of seepage. When you discover areas that have been infested by moisture, you should replace the shingles entirely.

Intense damages call for nothing less than replacing all the shingles and re-roofing the house, although cracked or split shingles can be repaired without being eliminated. 8

Removing shingles from a roof requires a rake-sized scraper or a huge hayfork. However, if you’re working on a tiny area, you can use smaller tools such as a pry bar by simply sliding it under the broken shingle to loosen the nails and free the shingle.

Replacing shingles needs shingle cement or other adhesive elements (when the shingles don’t have pre-installed adhesive strips), roofing nails, and new shingles. Position a new shingle in the exact location as the previous one to replace.

If they have adhesive strips, remove the covering, put them into place, and secure them with a nail. During the installation, lift each tab gently on the shingle to apply the cement under the surface before pressing them down to attach them.

Solar Panels vs. Solar Shingles: Which Is Best for Roof Replacement Solar Panels?

With all the above details regarding roof replacement before solar panel installation, you might be questioning if solar shingles are a great option for your precious home. Below is a broad discussion regarding the distinction between solar shingles and panels to enable you to evaluate which one is the best. 9

Cost

Since solar shingles are one of the most-recent roofing technologies, installing them can be quite demanding, making them slightly more priced than their predecessors. Even so, the variation is insignificant when you’re replacing a roof and installing new solar panels.

Efficiency

Experts have it that both solar shingles are less efficient compared to panels even though both work under the photovoltaic effect principle.

Flexibility

You can install solar panels on any roof. You can also remove and relocate them.

Conversely, solar shingles are made to suit sloped or tilted roofs and can hardly be eliminated to be situated elsewhere. 6

Aesthetics

Solar panels are bulky and not very attractive. On the other hand, solar shingles are seamless and give a roof a beautiful look which is why most people love them.

Learning the differences between solar shingles vs. solar panels will enable you to discover which one is the most ideal for your home. It would be essential to note that both systems can last for 25 to 30 years.

Solar Panel Roof Replacement: Solar Panels Removal and Reinstall Near Me

Many companies are offering solar removal and reinstalling services.

(Image: Photo by Dennis Schroeder, U.S. Department of Energy 18 )

If you want to find one around your home, you can indicate your region when searching for the companies; for instance, solar panels removal and reinstallation companies in California.

Can Solar Panels Replace Roof? (New Roof Installation Considerations)

Solar panel roof requirements are about 18 square feet for each solar panel, and therefore the average size of a roof for solar panels should be 400-600 square feet. A flat-roof solar panel may be less practical compared to those installed on slanted roofs. 2

But can solar panels replace a roof? 11 No! Solar panels cannot be used as a roof replacement, but solar shingles can because they resemble the traditional roofing system. However, they produce electricity like standard solar panels.

Roof replacement before solar panel installation guarantees homeowners great value for their money with an extended lifespan of the roof. 12 While the re-roofing and solar panel installation costs may be substantial, you can be assured of huge savings from constant repairs in the long run.

Understanding solar panel roof replacement options can help you make the best decision for your green energy system.

Solar Shingles For Your Roof [Data Facts]

Solar roof shingles are the best possible replacement for traditional solar panels. Although solar shingles have been around for a while, their popularity only spiked when Elon Musk announced his own Tesla solar roof. With a competitive price, sleek design, and unprecedented functionality, solar roof solutions are the best investment for those who do not want to compromise their roof looks and property aesthetics.

What are Solar Roof Shingles?

Solar roof shingles are roof tiles with built-in solar cells. The photovoltaic shingles can, therefore, completely substitute for your roof and look much better than standard solar panels added to the roof. Proponents of the technology also say that roof shingles are more durable than traditional solar panels and that they give multipurpose to the otherwise useless surface: generating electricity and staying protected from the elements now go hand in hand.

As yet another product on the solar market, solar tiles can help usher renewables into daily life and help mitigate climate change. Made from conventional roofing materials, with an added solar cell in each tile, they are a great substitute for building-integrated photovoltaics – a solution many disliked. The newer generation of solar tiles can cover the entire roof and give it a uniform, sleek design that you will want to see, not hide away from.

When choosing solar shingles, there are several factors you should consider. All of these are important in determining what your roof will look like, which brand you will use, how much energy you will get, and lastly, what the cost will be. The factors to consider when choosing solar shingles for your home include:

Lifespan

The lifespan of solar shingles is around 25-30 years. This means that your shingles will generate electricity for the next two to three decades after the installation is done. During this time, your shingles will produce energy that is enough to pay them off, especially as your energy costs will be almost nullified. Conventional shingles cannot do this.

Size

When it comes to the size of your shingles solar array, it can be observed that the size can relate to the size of individual shingles and the size of the total solar array. In the former case, choosing shingles you think will work the best with your existing shingles is the most important factor. In the latter case, the size of your solar system is also important, as it should be large enough to produce all the energy your family needs, especially in the upcoming years. You may need an expert to help you with the calculations.

The number of roof shingles is also important. Here, you need to understand that each shingle produces only a limited amount of energy. This means that you need to divide your total energy needs with the DC output of the shingle model you would like to purchase. As most shingles can produce between 35 and 80 Watts a piece, you will need quite a few to cover your needs.

Bear in mind that the total cost of your installation and the average cost per foot sq. will depend on the ratio between active and inactive shingles. Tesla solar shingles, for example, come with both active and inactive shingles. However, their ratio is determined by your energy needs and roof size.

Material

The material used in your shingles also has a big say in their looks and performance. In general, the basis for the shingles is asphalt, concrete, or metal. The solar cell inside can be polycrystalline or monocrystalline. Alternatively, thin-film solar cells can also be found. Monocrystalline shingles have the highest efficiency, while thin-film technology offers the lowest possible power output.

Energy Generation

Different materials mean different efficiency, which, in turn, means differences in the energy generation capacity. With solar shingles, you can generally expect an energy generation capacity of between 35-80 Watts per shingle, which is great considering their cost and the number you need. Always take all these factors into consideration before making your purchase.

How Do Solar Shingles Work?

Solar shingles have been around for a while. They came into the market because many people complained that traditional PV panels simply do not look good enough on their roofs. With the advent of polycrystalline silicon solar cells and thin-film solar panels, the market was finally ready for solar shingles and their production. Thin-film solar cells are inexpensive to produce, but as the technology is still new, the cost of solar shingles is still relatively high.

Solar shingles are installed as regular shingles: they are mostly either screwed or nailed in place. Once there, they are connected either in series or using parallel connections and connected to your solar inverter and the solar battery. Once everything is connected, they act as regular solar panels, producing electricity when exposed to direct sunlight.

One of the biggest solar shingles pros is that they produce solar energy and act as a traditional roofing material. You get to use renewable energy in your home and do so at a high conversion efficiency: some solar shingles use monocrystalline technology – enabling around 20% conversion efficiency.

Types of Solar Roofing

As solar shingles became more popular over time, other types of solar products started appearing. Solar shingles or solar roofs became so popular because they already included the cost of replacing the roof and reduced the need to look for two separate contractors: one to replace the roof and one to install PV panels. For this reason, two new products have sprung up in the solar market:

Integrated Solar Metal Roofing

Integrated solar metal roofing is a type of multi-layer metal roofing that consists of glass coating, color, and a monocrystalline layer. The wiring and all other electrical components are hidden under metal for a clean look. The entire system is placed on a vented racking system, increasing its efficiency and power output.

Interlocking Solar Panel Roofing

In response to the ever-increasing of solar roofs, GAF and Suntegra introduced interlocking solar panel roofing. This kind of roofing helps you avoid the solar shingle cost and all the additional work accompanying solar shingles. A system like this is easy to install, competitive in price, and it makes a good compromise in an aesthetic sense, especially between regularly mounted solar panels and an interlocking, integrated system.

Solar Roof: Installation Cost Average Cost

Solar shingles worth thousands of dollars are sold every minute in the US. But what is the cost of a roof installation for you? The answer to how much money you should cash out for solar shingles on your rooftop depends on the following factors:

• The age and the condition of your roof,
• The orientation and the slope of the roof,
• The average insulation in your area (in hours/year),
• The average solar irradiation in your area (in W/m2),
• Your energy habits and needs,
• Any future plans for introducing new electricity-powered devices.

All these factors will significantly influence the cost of solar shingles and roofs in each case. These factors, especially your energy needs (on an average monthly basis), will determine the number of solar shingles or integrated solar panels you need, as well as which type of solar shingle products you will need. A solar shingle roof can therefore cost anywhere between 15,000 to 20,000, with additional costs if you need a new roof.

Solar Roof Brands

As solar shingle roofs have proven to be reliable, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing, more homeowners wanted to add these to their new homes. The increase in demand drove the up and has made the solar roof business more lucrative. For this reason, many companies offer one form or another of solar roofs. Tesla solar roof tiles ushered the way to the new area.

Tesla

Although solar shingles have been sound for several years now, it was the Tesla Solar Shingle that has really brought it to the full attention of the market. With the Tesla solar roof, Tesla promises, you will pay around the same price as for a standard roof and solar panels combined. In reality, Tesla mostly matches their promise as they approach each rooftop individually.

In most cases, depending on your home size and energy needs, your Tesla solar roof will consist of both active solar tiles and inactive solar tiles. This approach gives Tesla more chances to come up with an ideal solar roof for you, as well as to limit the expense. However, standing at 13.50 per square foot of inactive solar shingles, Tesla solar roof is still way more expensive than a standard asphalt shingle, constant at around 3.50-5.50 per square foot.

Luma Solar Roof

Luma Solar roof, on the other hand, comes with greater solar power – each of its solar tiles is rated at an 80 Watt power output. The solar panel shingles they place have inactive shingles as well so that you can have a uniform look and feel to your solar roof without any compromises. The inactive solar shingle installation also costs less, as they are cheaper to manufacture. This way, you keep the costs at an acceptable level: Luma Solar Shingle solution costs around 4.50 per Watt of DC capacity.

CertainTeed Apollo II

CertainTeed offers two solar products for partial or full roof replacement. The company offers Apollo II Shingles and Apollo II tiles. Both come with monocrystalline solar cells and are sure to fit in with your existing roof pretty well. As they are monocrystalline solar cells, these two products have high-efficiency levels and are comparable in their performance to the Tesla Solar Roof.

Suntegra

Suntegra also offers two lines of products to its customers: solar shingles and solar tiles. Their solar shingles come in the following power output ratings:

They are made of high-quality, durable material, comparable to asphalt shingles in their durability. Unlike a traditional solar panel, they do not have the blackish hue that most solar shingles have. Unlike most solar panels, they are quite expensive, as their price starts at 3.80 per Watt of DC power.

The Suntegra solar tiles, on the other hand, come at a higher price range: 6.16 – 6.57 per Watt of DC power capacity. They come with slightly lower efficiency and power output: 64 and 70 Watts. If you still decide to install solar shingles by the same company, you will get more residential solar power from the same roof surface area.

GAF Materials Corporation

GAF is currently one of the largest producers of roofing materials in the US. Recently, it has introduced its own line of solar shingle solutions, which are supposed to cover the entire roof in solar cells. Some of its solar tiles are made from asphalt, so the installation is similar to the installation of traditional asphalt shingles – they are nailed into the underlying construction.

Total roof replacement with GAF solar roof tiles may cost you around 30,000 for a standard US roof. Each tile is certified at 45 Watts of output power, giving you more than enough electricity for an average US residence.

Forward Solar Roofing

Forward Solar Roofing has come up with a solution for integrated solar metal roofing. This way, the company can offer active solar shingles (or solar roofing) that cost around 50% per square foot compared to Tesla solar roof. As solar shingles cost a lot of money, a complete solar roof may be quite pricey. Forward solar roofing avoids these costs and saves you money.

Installation Maintenance

Solar shingles are much like your standard roofing tiles – occasional rain will do most of the cleaning and maintenance for you. Still, if you live in an area with a lot of trees or even an area with heavy snowfall, you may want to invest some time in clearing the shingles from anything that may shade them, especially during the autumn and winter part of the year.

Besides this, there is very little maintenance. It is usually suggested that an electrician should visit the site once a year and check the wiring and solar batteries (if you happen to have them), but there is very little work that actually needs to be done once your new roof is in place.

Cost Comparison Between Solar Shingles Conventional Roof

Many homeowners do not want to install traditional solar panels, as solar shingles look so much better. Made to resemble conventional roofing materials, they are the way to go for everyone who can afford them. Cost, in particular, is the biggest issue, as solar shingles are even more expensive than conventional solar panels.

For this reason, it is recommended that you only consider solar shingles on a new property or if you are already planning to replace the entire roof. This will give you a unique opportunity to explore different options and solar roofing brands available out there. As more solar shingle manufacturers come to the market, traditional roofing materials are likely to fall behind in the production lines, leaving space for the next-gen technology.

Cost Comparison Between Solar Shingles Conventional Solar Panels

Before comparing solar shingles and panels, it is important to note that, although they serve the same function, they are different products. Solar shingles are considered more of a high-end product and are meant for:

• Homeowners who want to preserve the aesthetic aspect of their home,
• Homeowners who want a more sleek and durable product that will last for decades,
• Homeowners who want to replace their roof and install panels – solar shingles reduce workforce costs and save time.

With this in mind, we can compare the pricing. Solar shingles will cost between 15,000 and 20,000 for an average American home. An average solar panel installation will cost around 16,000 for an average US home. This puts them in pretty much the same price range, depending on the brand and the size of the system.

However, if you need to replace your roof and get access to solar energy, then shingles are a much better option. Do not forget that solar panel installations demand a good and sturdy roof. Replacing the roof will cost thousands of dollars. With solar shingles, the costs are absorbed, as you do not need to pay extra for the tiles/shingles as you do with a standard roof.

Another important aspect to consider is the manufacturer. Tesla solar shingles, for example, often cost multiple of those other producers. That is because Tesla solar shingles are considered a premium product, and there is even a lengthy waiting list for those who would like to install them. However, in both cases, you can count on solar tax credits and other incentives.

Benefits of Solar Roof Shingles

Like any other solar product, solar shingles have many benefits. Being able to make your own residential solar power from your roof without compromising the look of your property on its own is a benefit high enough for many American homeowners to go with this product. The major benefits of solar shingles include:

• Reduction in carbon footprint,
• Saving on your electric bill,
• Being able to apply for tax credits (under the Federal ITC) and solar rebates,
• Preserving or improving the looks of your home and the roof.

Drawbacks of Solar Roof Shingles

However, most solar shingles have their drawbacks as well. As it goes, solar shingles are a relatively new product on the market. They are still considered a high-end, luxury product that costs a significant amount of money. As the solar industry keeps rolling out new solar power systems and cheaper solar shingles, it can be expected to see more of them on the roofs around the US. The major drawbacks of solar shingles include:

• The very high initial price per square foot and project – as most solar shingles need to be mounted on a new structure (to ensure safety and durability for years to come), you may also need to have a full roof replacement,
• Solar roofing comes in limited styles. Unlike traditional roofing shingles, solar shingles contain silicon solar cells. This solar energy solution, for this reason, needs to have a surface that can interact with sunlight – giving you a limited availability of colors and patterns,
• Solar shingles are similar to solar panels – they need exposure to direct sunlight, always at a certain angle that’s supposed to help generate the most electricity. These thin-film solar cells need to face the South – if your home roof does not face the South, it may be impractical to install solar shingles, as solar panels will yield the maximum energy output if tilted or re-oriented. We cannot say the same for solar shingles, as they have to be laid flat on the roof surface.

Are Solar Roofs included in Solar Incentives and Tax Credits?

Yes, your solar shingle roof is included in solar incentives and tax credits. As this type of roof can produce renewable energy, it is eligible for most state and federal solar incentives and taxes. You should apply for the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, state solar incentives, as well as state and utility company rebates. The Federal ITC gives back around 22%of investment value back, while rebates and incentives can give back up to 1 per Watt of DC capacity.

FAQs

Do homes with solar sell faster?

Yes, homes with solar sell faster. Many new homeowners are eco-conscious people who know that a solar roof increases the value of the property without an increase in property taxes. Furthermore, the freedom of having no or very low power bills is attractive to many. If you are thinking about installing solar panels on your existing roof before selling, this may be a good option, as every kW of solar capacity installed on your roof increases your property value by around 6,000.

Are Solar Roofs Worth it?

Yes, solar roofs are worth it. Most solar roofs (such as Tesla solar roof) are comparable in cost to a conventional roof with solar panels installed. The Tesla solar roof also has the benefit of a unified look of the roof, as not everybody is comfortable with the sight of solar panels on their existing roof. The best thing to do to ensure you have a solar roof in place is to start planning one before your house is built to ensure that all equipment can be installed right away, with no delays.

What time of day are solar panels most efficient?

Solar panels and solar roof tiles are most efficient during the solar noon – around 2 PM during the summertime in the Northern hemisphere. You will see the highest net solar power production from your solar panels or solar roof tiles between 10 AM and 4 PM, as this is the time when the Sun is at its highest position in the sky. Besides time, there are other factors that can influence the efficiency of your solar panels, such as orientation, shading, longitude and latitude, and the time of the year.

Do solar panels work during rain?

As the sky is mostly overcast during the rain, your solar panels will not work. This is especially true for dark, gloomy days with thick clouds in the sky. However, your solar panels can still produce some electricity in the event of a slightly overcast sky. The biggest benefit of mixing rain and solar panels is that your solar system will be free of dust after rain and will be able to produce much more electricity than before.

Conclusion

Solar shingles are considered the next generation of solar panels. Relatively cheap and perfect for those who are looking to upgrade their property and change their roof, solar shingles are the energy source of the future. As they produce free electricity and are eligible for tax incentives, you can also expect to have significant savings on your power bill. Now is the right time to choose between traditional solar panels and solar roof shingles.

Tesla Solar Roof: the complete review

In October 2019, Tesla Motors announced the launch of the Tesla Solar Roof V3, the company’s third version of its integrated solar glass shingle. Among several updates, version three included larger tiles, lower production costs, increased power density, and a more straightforward installation process.

Additionally, the total number of parts in the product decreased. Tesla predicted that these changes would significantly reduce the cost of the product; however, the company has continued to struggle with expediting its solar roof installations.

The Tesla Solar Roof: EnergySage’s take

While Tesla is most famous for its electric vehicles (EVs), the company’s future lies in total clean energy integration – a one-step carbon reduction process that involves pairing solar panels with your Tesla EV. For home owners who want the benefits of solar without the “look” of solar, the Tesla Solar Roof provides an enticing alternative: but is this luxury roof the right option for you?

What’s in this article?

There’s a lot in here, and we’ll try to speak to every aspect of the solar roof. Skip ahead to any of the sections below:

• What are solar shingles?
• Latest news on the solar roof
• Solar Roof key events timeline
• Solar roof specifications
• Cost estimates
• Should you wait for the Tesla Solar Roof?
• Tesla’s competitors

The Tesla Solar Roof: what you need to know

Some solar industry stakeholders believe that solar needs to be rebranded as an aesthetic and technical improvement that can be a part of a home renovation rather than a hefty module affixed to your rooftop. That sentiment was emphasized in Elon Musk’s October 2016 launch of Tesla’s first roofing product. With the Solar Roof, the company aims to bring solar further into the mainstream by removing any sort of aesthetic concerns that homeowners may have.

“I think there’s quite a radical difference between having solar panels on your roof that actually make your house look better versus ones that do not, I think it’s going to be a night-and-day difference,” said Musk in a statement before the official launch of Tesla’s first solar roof. Two months later, he unveiled the solar roof using a crowded, suburban event in California to demonstrate that Tesla’s panel design was so seamlessly integrated that the entire audience of press needed to be altered to its presence on the house in front of them.

Using a Tesla Powerwall home battery with the Tesla Solar Roof

Tesla Solar Roofs come paired with energy storage in the form of a Tesla Powerwall battery. The Tesla Powerwall boasts a maximum power rating of 7 kW with no sun or 9.6 kW with full sun to go along with 13.5 kWh of usable capacity. It can also help provide solar power to your home during a power outage. It also comes with the Tesla app that allows users to monitor their energy production in real- time. Tesla Powerwalls are eligible for the federal tax credit.

What’s the latest news on the Tesla Solar Roof tiles?

Tesla has now installed Solar Roofs across the country, though the exact number of installations is unclear. This solar product has been gaining popularity among some consumers, leading to long installation wait times for customers who sign contracts. In April 2021, many of these customers were shocked when they received emails from Tesla quoting higher installation costs than their contract prices. The lack of explanation and transparency caused confusion and frustration among consumers, especially if they could no longer afford the hefty price tag.

During Tesla’s quarterly earnings call in April 2021, CEO Elon Musk affirmed that demand “remains strong” for the Tesla Solar Roof, despite increases in Solar Roof pricing. He did concede that Tesla “basically made some significant mistakes in assessing the difficulty of certain roofs.” Tesla has added roof complexity information to its website and a roof complexity disclaimer to its Solar Roof calculator; however, Tesla notes that your roof complexity won’t be determined until after you place an order for a Solar Roof. Tesla divides the complexity into three categories–simple, intermediate, and complex–based on the following criteria:

• Simple: single-level roof, uncrowded mounting planes, few obstructions (pipes, chimneys, skylights), low pitch
• Intermediate: multi-level roof (roof sections built on multiple stories of your house), more crowded mounting plane, more obstructions (pipes, chimneys, skylights), higher pitch
• Complex: multi-level roof (roof sections built on multiple stories of your house), heavily crowded mounting plane, many obstructions (pipes, chimneys, skylights), steep pitch

Based on previous reports, the price of a Tesla Solar Roof varies substantially depending on your roof’s complexity.

Timeline of key Tesla Solar Roof news and announcements

Tesla seems to have a pattern of overpromising and underdelivering in regard to its solar roof. Here’s a breakdown of what the past several years have looked like for the company and its customers.

• April 2016: Tesla purchases Solarcity and begins production on solar panels and the solar roof.
• May 2017: Tesla began taking orders for its Tesla solar tiles
• August 2017: Elon Musk revealed that he and another Tesla executive already had the roof installed on their respective properties.
• January 2018: The company announced it was ramping up production of the roof product at its Buffalo Gigafactory. Tesla then started initial installations with customers at the top of its waitlist in the California area in mid-March, roughly eight months after its initial estimate.
• May 2018: Tesla had about 11,000 orders for the solar roof and it was struggling to meet the demand.
• August 2018: Only 12 solar roofs had been installed in California, the leading state in the country for solar.
• September 2018: A report was released stating that solar roofs may not be widely installed for a long time. According to CNBC, Musk said they needed more time to work out all the details. “There’s only so much accelerated life testing that you can do on a roof. So before we can deploy it at a large number of houses we need to make sure that it’s that all elements of the roof are going to last for at least three decades,” said Musk in a summer 2018 meeting. The statement lacked both commitment and a clear timeline.
• November 2018: According to a Bloomberg report, the company began ramping up production, implementing 24/7 operating hours with about 80 employees per shirt for solar roof shingle production alone. Tesla’s head of energy operations, Sanjay Shah, stated that Tesla was gearing up for the solar roof side of its business to see “tremendous growth in 2019.” Musk himself tweeted that the first solar roof deployments would begin around summer 2019.
• June 2019: Despite continued delays and earnings losses, Musk tweeted that he hoped to manufacture about 1,000 solar roofs per week by the end of 2019.
• October 2019: Tesla announced the Tesla Solar Roof V3, which featured updates to increase manufacturing and deployment, and reduce prices.
• Late 2020: Tesla experienced some achievements for its solar roofs throughout the year, almost tripling its installations between quarter one and quarter two. In quarter four, Tesla announced that it had “made great progress growing [its] solar roof deployments,” but didn’t provide date to back up its claim.
• April 2021: Tesla Solar Roof customers have continued to experience delays and a lack of transparency from Tesla.
• May 2021: Some customers sued Tesla over unexpected hikes.
• June 2021: electrek confirmed that Tesla’s head of energy operations had left the company after months of rumors.
• October 2021: Tesla expanded solar roof installations to anywhere in the United States.
• November 2021: electrek announced that Solar Roof tiles will be more efficient, have higher capacity, and might be able to be installed over existing roofs.

Tesla Solar Roof specifications: what are you getting?

If you’re interested in installing a Tesla Solar Roof, you’re probably wondering what you’re getting of each solar shingle. We’ll explain some of the specifications of the Solar Roof:

Design

Despite previous announcements about multiple design offerings–including tuscan glass tile, slate glass tile, textured glass tile, and smooth glass tile–the Tesla Solar Roof is only currently available in one shingle design. According to Tesla’s website, each shingle has a dimension of 15 inches by 45 inches, is 5 mm thick, and is made of glass, polymers, fiberglass, and silicon. The shingle is designed to resemble a traditional asphalt shingle.

Warranty

Tesla provides 25-year product, weatherization, and module warranties, comparable to leading solar panel brands. The warranty also guarantees that your Solar Roof will be at least 95 percent of its “Rated Peak Power” at five years following installation and that it will decline by no more than 0.5 percent per year for the following 20 years –essentially guaranteeing 85 percent output in year 25. Its inverter has a 12.5-year warranty, which aligns with warranties for other string inverter brands; however, this warranty is lower than warranties for many microinverters, which are often 20 to 25 years.

How much does the Tesla Solar Roof cost?

With the new complexity categories explained above, it’s a bit difficult to fully estimate the cost of a Tesla Solar Roof. The cost varies significantly depending on whether your roof is “simple” or “complex” and depending on the square footage of your roof. If you have a fairly small – and not too complex – roof that you already need to replace, the price of a Solar Roof will probably be fairly comparable to that of a new asphalt roof installation plus solar panels. However, as you increase the size and/or complexity of your roof, you can expect this number quickly skyrocket.

Should you wait for the Tesla Solar Roof?

Standard solar panel technologies are typically evaluated based on their performance, durability, and warranties. However, Tesla’s lack of transparency makes it difficult to compare to traditional solar panels. Four years after the initial launch of Tesla’s solar roof, the company still hasn’t revealed the shingles’ efficiency and customers are still experiencing long wait times and surprise price increases.

If you’re in dire need of a roof upgrade or if you won’t need a roof upgrade for a while, the Tesla Solar Roof may not be worth your long wait. Solar panels are extremely dependable (and we think they look great, too!). However, if you need to upgrade your roof soon (but not immediately) and your roof isn’t too complex or large, you may be a good candidate for the Tesla Solar Roof. Additionally, if you’re set on the look and have the capital to cover the cost, the system may be the best choice for you, though it may be worth your while to compare the Tesla Solar Roof to other solar roof products.

Tesla’s solar shingles are best suited for new construction

Most existing solar shingle technologies are also known as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) because they are integrated with your existing roof and are a similar size and shape to standard roof tiles. Tesla has created something different. In August 2016, Musk first explained the difference between solar shingles and Tesla’s solar roof: “It’s not a thing on the roof. It is the roof.”

Unlike other solar shingles, Tesla’s roof tiles are designed to completely replace your existing roof (though electrek did recently report that you may soon be able to install them over existing roofs). As a result, the most cost-effective way to install them is when your home is being built, which means that they are best suited for homebuyers who have a say in the design and materials of their newly constructed home. While this doesn’t mean that they can’t be used on existing homes, retrofitting your roof with Tesla solar tiles means removing your existing roof (which Tesla will do for you). As a result, retrofitting your roof with Tesla solar tiles is only practical when your roof is already due to be replaced.

Who are Tesla’s solar roof competitors?

Though the buzz around Tesla’s illustrious roof product has made it appear like it’s a new concept, it is merely the continued repackaging brilliance that some call the “Musk effect.” Development of solar roof tiles and solar shingles has been evolving for many years, and a number of companies have taken a stab at designing a versatile, subtle rooftop solar medium that could be considered a genuine roofing material rather than a module add-on. Here are some of Tesla’s solar roof competitors that offer similar BIPV products:

• Luma – these solar shingles can be integrated with all roofing material and install similarly to traditional metal roofing. Luma markets its product as the only upgradable solar shingle system and boasts an efficiency of 22.1 percent.
• Suntegra – this Northeast solar manufacturer is at the forefront of the solar roof product line. The company hails from New York and began offering its two solar roof products just a few months before the announcement of Tesla’s shingles. Suntegra’s solar shingles are designed to be integrated with low-profile roof materials and are about 15.9 to 17.2 percent efficient. Its solar tiles are slightly less efficient at 13.9 to 15.1 percent and are designed to be integrated with standard flat concrete tile roofs.
• CertainTeed – originally a roofing company, this contractor now offers two solar roof products, with similar integration strategies to Suntegra. Its Apollo II system includes solar shingles to match low-profile roofs, which are about 15.4 percent efficient. CertainTeed’s Apollo Tile II system integrates solar tiles with flat concrete tiles roofs and its tiles are about 16 percent efficient.

It’s important to note that the solar shingles and tiles offered by these companies do still stand out against other roofing material. None can compete with Tesla in terms of aesthetics or subtlety, but they do offer low-profile BIPV solutions that may alleviate aesthetic concerns for some solar shoppers.

Frequently asked questions about the Tesla Solar Roof

While the cost of switching to solar is high, and the news and information surrounding Tesla Solar Roofs can be confusing or nearly obsolete, it’s important to research each product, company, and topic before making a decision. Learn more about the Tesla Solar Roof by reading these commonly asked questions:

Depending on your location, Tesla will send its own installers or contractors to set up your system after purchasing a Solar Roof.

Tesla claims that their shingles are three times stronger than the average roof tile and are built to endure all weather conditions. They have the highest fire rating (Class A) and are built to withstand 110 mph winds (Class F), so you can feel confident even in extreme weather conditions.

Tesla offers a 25-year warranty on the system’s tiles, power, and weatherization. Plus, its inverter has a 12.5-year warranty, giving homeowners peace of mind regarding their investment.

Learn how much solar can save you today before you make your decision

Just as Tesla doesn’t make electric vehicles for the masses, Tesla’s solar roof isn’t feasible for every home. In many ways, the company’s solar roof product is similar to its first electric car. If you are an early adopter of newer technologies, don’t care about price, and are prepared to wait for a product with an uncertain manufacturing timeline, then waiting for Tesla’s solar roof could be the right decision for you.

Additionally, waiting to go solar has its risks, even if you’re interested in the solar roof. The cost of going solar is falling every year, and there are premium solar panels already available today that come with high-efficiency ratings and a sleek black design. If you wait years for the Tesla Solar Roof, you will lose out on years of savings on your electricity bill. You also run the risk of missing out on financial incentives for solar: many state tax credits have already expired and as of now, the federal investment tax credit for solar will be lowered to 22 percent in 2023.

Before you make the decision to wait for the Tesla Solar Roof, use our solar calculator to learn how much you can save today by going solar. If you’re ready to explore the solar options for your home, join the EnergySage Marketplace and get custom quotes from solar installers in your area. You might be surprised by just how much you can save now by installing traditional solar panels on your roof.

Where to buy solar roof tiles

reading on EnergySage

Looking to go solar? Here’s everything you need to know in… Solar shingles: what you need to know in 2023 Best solar panels in 2023: Top products compared Tesla Solar Roof cost vs. solar panels Solar farms: what are they and how do they work?

About Emily Walker

With over five years of experience in environmental science and clean energy, Emily is an expert in solar, battery, and energy management technology and policy. She holds a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science and Biology from Colby College. Emily is always looking for ways to live her life more sustainably and is currently in the process of electrifying her home.