Solar roofing offers several financial and environmental benefits. If you plan a roof replacement, consider simultaneously combining it with a solar energy system. Heavy storms can damage solar shingles, so ensure the installer is experienced in roof work. Additionally, solar panels can affect your roof manufacturer and artistry warranty.
Cost
Solar roofs are a great way to cut down on energy bills. However, they come with a cost that some homeowners may need to be more comfortable with. It’s essential to find a local roofer specializing in solar roofing repairs and installation, as they will be familiar with the technical requirements of these systems. Unlike traditional solar panel installation, integrated solar roofs look sleeker and offer more protection for your home. Although quality shingles are meant to withstand harsh weather conditions, they can still suffer from hail and wind damage. The good news is that solar shingles have a 25-year product and weatherization warranty, which exceeds solar industry standards. This makes them a solid investment for those looking to save money on their energy costs. Solar shingles are an excellent choice for anyone who needs roof work or building a new house. The fact that they have a sleeker appearance is a bonus, as it can increase the market value of your home. In addition, the cost of solar shingles is competitive with other energy sources. This is particularly true in states with favorable net metering policies. However, it’s important to note that your energy savings will vary depending on the state of your home and the amount of sunlight it receives.
Energy Savings
Many homeowners install a solar energy system when replacing their roofs. This allows them to save on the cost of both projects and increases the resale value of their home. It is also an excellent opportunity to increase the environmental sustainability of their home, as solar shingles are a renewable resource that minimizes energy usage and emissions. While the upfront cost of a new roof and solar energy system may be expensive, it will pay for itself over time with savings on electricity bills. Additionally, homeowners can qualify for federal and state tax credits and rebates that help offset installation costs.
Moreover, solar systems can be connected to energy companies that offer net metering services, which allow homeowners to sell their excess electricity back to the power company. Another benefit of solar shingles is that they are easy to maintain, as they don’t have a lot of nooks and crannies where dirt can build up. Unlike solar panels, which require more specialized cleaning equipment, a garden hose can keep the solar shingles clean. Solar shingles are more durable than traditional roofs to endure decades of use. As a result, they can avoid the need for frequent repairs and replacements, which makes them a wise long-term investment for any homeowner.
Longevity
A solar roof is a long-term investment, and the longevity of your new roof is critical to achieving an attractive ROI. Quality roofing material and artistry can expand your roof’s lifespan and minimize repair jobs, thus extending its positive financial impact. If your current roof is old or in poor condition, replacing it before adding solar panels can ensure that your home’s structure can support the added weight of the panels. It can also prevent expensive repair or reinstallation work that would have otherwise been necessary once you add the solar panels. Adding solar panels to an existing roof can also extend its lifespan. Sun rays and heat can wear down shingles and lighten their color over time. Still, by covering the roof with solar panels, you’ll have an additional protection layer that helps keep the underlying shingles material more relaxed and longer. Solar panels have a long life span and can continue producing electricity for 20 or more years before their rated service life ends. They’re very durable devices with simple maintenance needs, and most brands now offer 25-year product warranties. While solar shingles and tiles are relatively new technology, they can be an excellent choice for homeowners installing a solar system and a roof. They blend in with the rest of the roof and don’t require a racking system, making them easier to maintain than standard solar panels. Plus, they can withstand the same weather conditions as traditional shingles, and recent Department of Energy-backed studies show buyers are willing to pay more for homes with solar roofing features.
Environmental Impact
Solar panels create clean energy, eliminating the need for fossil fuels that produce harmful greenhouse gases and reducing household electricity bills. They also provide independence from large utility companies and can be used during outages or natural disasters affecting traditional energy sources. In addition to their environmental benefits, a quality roof with solar panels can add value and beauty to your home. A roof that reflects sunlight and uses ventilation systems to reduce heat buildup can also improve home insulation, reducing energy costs. If you’re replacing your roof or constructing a new building, including a solar shingle system may make sense. Before you do, have a local roofing expert inspect your current roof to ensure it can support the weight of solar panels and wires without compromising its structural integrity or safety. Also, check with your solar company to determine how the roofing crew will handle the solar installation and whether it might void the roof warranty or artistry warranties. If the solar company is also experienced in roofs, they can work around the panels without creating any accidental damage. If they’re not, you should consider hiring another company.
