What are Solar Tiles?
Solar tiles and Solar shingles are one of the most innovative roofing technologies of the 21’s century. Solar shingles are solar panels built to look like shingles. But one key difference is that they actually rest on top of an existing roof system. While on the other hand, Solar tiles are like mini solar panels that are shaped into a tile that exists as the roof system. In other words, Solar shingles rest on top of a roof and solar tiles are integrated into the roof.
Solar roofs give you the best of both worlds. You get the great style and protection from roofing tiles and the energy savings of a solar panel. It essentially converts your entire roof into a solar panel.
If you are interested in becoming an early adopter and helping to lead the way in this new technology. You should consider all the advantages and disadvantages that come with this roof system.
Pros:
1.Energy Efficient
This is by far the biggest advantage of solar tile roofs and probably the most appealing thing to potential buyers. Solar roofs can help lower your electrical bill by producing clean energy. The Solar shingles produce about 110 Watts per meter squared (110 Wp) while the tiles produce about 70 watts per meter squared (70Wp).
2.Eco-Friendly
Solar roofs are much more environmentally friendly than fossil-fueled power sources. One thing to note, that most people do not think about is how the machines and manufacturing processes used to produce solar panels are fossil fuel-powered. However, this is somewhat of a “catch 22” situation. Hopefully, in the near future, they will be able to run those machines and manufacturing processes from clean energy sources. In order to get there though it will take early innovators to take the first steps.
3.Fire Resistance
Solar roof tiles and shingles are made to meet the highest class specification for fire resistance which is a Class A fire rating.
4.Impact Resistance
Solar roofs are made out of a strong glass that is highly resistant against impacts. The solar tiles go above and beyond the highest impact rating of Class 4 impact resistance. One solar company claims that its Solar Tiles are 3x stronger than other roofing materials.
5.Wind Resistance
The solar tiles have a strong resistance to wind. They are rated for wind speeds up to 130 mph. This makes them a feasible option for places that experience high winds regularly.
6.Life Expectancy
The estimated life expectancy of solar tiles is about 25 – 40 years. However, these numbers are just predictions because this type of roof system is less than 10 years old. Only time will tell if they will meet their engineer’s expectations. You can click this link to see how Solar tiles compare to the life expectancy to 16 other types of roofing materials.
7.Infrangible
Solar Tiles are infrangible meaning they will not break from being walked on. They will hold up better than other tile roofs like slate, which can be brittle and break if stepped on.
8.Aesthetically Pleasing
Solar roof tiles are really nice looking. Unlike the bulky solar panels so commonly used today. The tiles are sleek and blend in with the roof which can give it a nice clean contemporary look. I would say the tiles are just as aesthetically pleasing if not more than Slate tiles.
9.Shape
Solar tiles come in a variety of different shapes and forms. They make Solar tiles to look similar to other roofing materials such as:
These also come in a variety of colors, so you are sure to find a style that fits your home.
10.Versatile
Solar roofing tiles can be used on both residential and commercial roofs. However, I believe it is more commonly used on residential homes.
11.Innovative Technology
Solar shingles/tiles are the cutting edges of new roofing technology. This definitely is a benefit because it comes with a “wow” factor. Some of the originally selected Tesla Solar Roof Glass owners have received a lot of attention from the media about their new roof. They became the pioneers of this new technology. This roof system is definitely one to impress the neighbors.
12.Phone Monitoring
How many roofs can you monitor with your phone? Solar roof systems especially those provided by the Tesla Company can be linked to your phone with an app. This app allows homeowners to monitor and track their roof’s energy savings.
13.UV Resistance
The Solar roof tiles are made with a special glass that is UV resistant. This protects the roof and the underlayments from the harmful UV radiation. Which helps extend the lifespan of the roof system.
14. Low Maintenance
This is one is kind of in-between a pro and con especially because of limited information about the maintenance of a solar roof. Solar roof tiles are less than 10 years old so we aren’t fully sure what kind of maintenance is needed. I imagine that as long as the solar tiles are connected properly they will not require any maintenance. However, early adopters of this new technology may experience some maintenance and repairs because Solar roof tiles are still in the testing stage to see how long it will last and what kind of maintenance if any is needed. Only time will tell, we will know more in about 30 years from now.
Cons:
1.Price
As with any new leading technology, the cost of solar roofs is higher than any other roofing material. The cost depends on the company but it can range anywhere from $1,100 to $2,600 per square. In case you do not know this, 1 roofing square refers to 100 square feet. So a 2,000 square foot roof will cost about $22,000 to $52,000. You can see how this compares to 16 different types of other roofing materials by clicking this link.
2.Testing
Solar roofs are still being developed and tested. This means they haven’t hit the mass market yet. The well-known company Tesla is still taking pre-orders with only a select few clients receiving their roof. This allows the company to refine its product and ensure it will last the predicted lifespan. With that said, you may be able to find other companies that provide solar tiles or solar shingles that do not have a pre-order list.
3.Installation
Solar tiles are very technical installation. It requires specialists trained in both electrical work and roofing. It took one client about 2 weeks to have his new roof installed by a crew of 15 to 20 people. That is significantly more than the typical roof which usually only takes a few days. I’m sure as this technology progresses and catches on and more people get trained, the installation time will be reduced.
4. Repairs
If the installation is a technical process, you can imagine that any repairs needed will be technical too. It may involve special ordering certain pieces or having a technical specialist from the manufacturer visit your home to make the repair. Or it could be a simple as disconnecting the broken tile and sliding in a new tile.
5.Return on Investment
Solar roof tiles and shingles have a costly upfront cost. It is estimated that it will take at least 15 years to get your return on investment from energy savings. That is about half the life expectancy of the roof system. The standard solar panels have a better return on investment because it typically takes about 5 years to make your money back. As this technology progress, the return on investment will become better.
6.Rewiring
When you get a new Solar tiled roof, you will have to have the wiring done to connect your house to the roof and to install battery storage. You will also need to get a new roof when you install the solar tiles because the tiles can’t be added on top of the previous roof system. The old roof system must be fully removed before installing the tiles. Which is different from some other types of roof systems like SPF, Asphalt Shingles, TPO, etc. which allow you to just cover the previous roof system.
7.Reinstallation
Another disadvantage to Solar tile roofs is that if you ever decided to move out of your house, the solar tiles can not be taken with you. Solar Panels are different because they can be removed and taken with you to your next house.
Are solar tiles right for you?
Solar tile roofs are perfect for those who are early innovators of technology. Those who want to help lead the world to a better way of living. If you have the budget for Solar tiles and do not mind potential waitlists I would recommend solar tiles. Especially because of the ergonomic appeal, durability, and potential energy savings.
However, if you do not feel that Solar tiles or shingles are the best option for you and your specific needs. There are several other alternative options you could choose from.
Alternative Options:
If you are like me and do not have the budget for a solar roof but still want the advantages of having Solar. Then a regular roof system with solar panels is the best option for you. It is more affordable does not have a waitlist, and has a better return on investment.
A common roofing material for solar panels is asphalt shingles. But there are plenty of other roofing materials that you can choose from. Over the course of several months, I made a 10,000+ word article that lists 17 different types of roofing materials that are used today. I wrote it to help you get an overview of what materials are available and to get a sense as to which material is best for you. You can view the article by clicking this link.
If you are interested in learning about other roofing materials that are related to Solar tiles. You can click any of the links below to see the other Pros & Cons lists for those materials.
Here are some other related materials:
Related Questions:
Are solar tiles good? Solar tile roofs are a good roof because they are durable, energy-efficient, and innovative. The main downside is the price and the return on investment is lower than Solar panels.
Are solar shingles worth it? If you have the budget for solar shingles then they are worth it because they are durable and energy-efficient. If you do not have the budget for it, then it would be better to choose a more affordable option like Solar panels instead.
Are there solar shingles? There are solar shingles and solar tiles. Solar shingles rest on top of an existing roof system. While Solar tiles are integrated into the roof system. Both look good and help to reduce the electrical costs of your home.