If you are looking to learn more about solar panel shingles, look no further. The basics as well as comparisons of the top brands in the space.

Are you tired of dealing with pesky energy bills and looking for a way to go green? Solar panel shingles might just be what the doctor ordered! These innovative roofing materials not only help you save money on energy costs, but they also have a smaller environmental impact than traditional solar panels.
In this article, we’ll compare some of the top brands of solar panel shingles and help you decide which one is right for your home. We’ll do our best to get a few jokes in along the way. Lets jump right in.
Contents
The Benefits Of Solar Panel Shingles
Solar panel shingles are a type of photovoltaic (PV) panel that is integrated into your roofing material. They work just like traditional solar panels, by converting sunlight into electricity that can be used to power your home, they just look better. Think of it like this, traditional solar panels are like a brick Zach Morris phone and solar panel shingles are like an apple watch.
The main difference is that solar panel shingles are much less noticeable than traditional panels. If you care about the appearance of your roof, you might not want clunky panels sitting on them. Solar shingles can also replace traditional roofing materials like asphalt or clay tiles.
But why choose solar panel shingles over traditional solar panels? Here are a few benefits:
- Aesthetically pleasing: Let’s be real, traditional solar panels aren’t exactly the most attractive addition to your home. Solar panel shingles, on the other hand, can blend seamlessly into your roof, making them less noticeable. This is especially appealing for homeowners who are concerned about the appearance of their home and don’t want large, bulky solar panels stinking up the joint (Kidding, solar panels don’t have an odor, unless your dog scales your home and relieves himself on them).
- Durability: Solar panel shingles are made to withstand the elements and have a longer lifespan than traditional solar panels. They are also less prone to damage from wind, hail, and whatever else falls from the sky where you are from (unless you live in sharknado territory, I don’t think they have shark protection capabilities. The added protection is because solar panel shingles are integrated into your roofing material, making them more secure and less likely to be damaged. Traditional solar panels, on the other hand, are mounted onto the roof, which makes them more vulnerable to wind and hail damage.
- Cost savings: Solar panel shingles can save you money on energy costs in the long run, especially if you live in an area with high electricity rates. They may also qualify for various tax credits and incentives. Depending on the size of your system and your energy needs, you could save thousands of dollars over the life of your solar panel shingles. In addition to saving money on monthly bills, solar panel shingles can also increase the value of your home. According to a recent study, homes with solar panel systems sell for an average of 4.1% more than comparable homes without solar panels.
Drawbacks Of Solar Panel Shingles
Like most things in this world, there are drawbacks to solar panel shingles that homeowners must consider before making a decision. Here are a few:
- Lower efficiency: One drawback of solar panel shingles is that they are less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity than traditional solar panels. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panel shingles typically have an efficiency range of 10-12%, while traditional solar panels have an efficiency range of 17-22%. This means that traditional solar panels can potentially generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight.
- Higher cost: Another potential drawback of solar panel shingles is that they are usually more expensive than traditional solar panels. The average cost per square foot is $21-$25. Depending on the size of your system and other factors, The cost of a solar panel shingle project can range from $60,000 to $75,000. In comparison, a traditional solar panel project can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000. This means that solar panel shingles have a higher upfront cost and lower long term savings.
- Limited options: Solar panel shingles are a relatively new technology, and as such, there are not as many options available as there are for traditional solar panels. This means that you may have fewer options to choose from when it comes to things like color, style, and efficiency. As solar panel shingles continue to gain popularity, it’s likely that more options will become available.
Comparison of Top Brands Of Solar Panel Shingles
Once you’ve made up you mind that solar panel shingles are the way to go, you’ll have to decide on the brand. We’ll take a look at Tesla, SunTegra, CertainTeed, and Luma.
- Tesla: Tesla is a well-known name in the world of solar energy, and their solar panel shingles are no exception. Their shingles are made with high-efficiency solar cells and a durable glass top layer, making them resistant to weather and wear. They come in a variety of colors and styles to match your roof. They also come with a generous 25-year warranty. One drawback is the cost, as Tesla’s solar panel shingles are on the pricier side. If you have the funds for it, Tesla solar shingles help you do your part in saving the environment and give you something to brag to your friends about.
- SunTegra: SunTegra is a leader in the solar panel shingle market, and for good reason. Their shingles are made with high-quality materials and come with a 25-year warranty. One unique feature of SunTegra’s shingles is that they can be easily removed and replaced, making them a good choice for homeowners who may want to switch to a different type of roofing material in the future.
- CertainTeed: CertainTeed is a famous name in the roofing industry, and their solar panel shingles are no exception. Their shingles are made with high-efficiency solar cells and a durable top layer. Like Tesla’s, CertainTeed’s solar panel shingles also come with a 25-year warranty. A negative mark against them is that they tend to not be as energy efficient as some of the other brands on this list. That being said, they are a reliable and well established brand, making them a good choice for homeowners who want a proven product.
- Luma: If you are looking for a solar shingle that is both efficient and durable, Look no further than Luma solar shingles! With an impressive 21% efficiency and the lower intestinal fortitude to withstand Category 5 hurricanes, Luma shingles are a great choice. Not to mention, they are the only solar shingle that can be upgraded as technology advances, so as solar breakthroughs happen, you can stay up to date.
If you would like to watch a story about Timberline Solar, watch the video below:
Choosing The Right Solar Panel Shingles For Your Home
Now that you know more about some of the top brands of solar panel shingles, how do you choose the right one for your home? Here are the main things you will want to consider:
- Determine the right size and type of solar panel shingles for your home: The size and type of solar panel shingles you need will depend on your energy needs and the size and orientation of your roof. A professional solar installer can help you figure all of this out. They will take into account factors like your energy usage, the angle and orientation of your roof, and any shading issues. We want to make sure the neighbors new addition isn’t throwing shade on our new solar shingles.
- Look for a good warranty: Most solar panel shingles come with a warranty, but make sure to choose a brand with a warranty that covers a sufficient amount of time. A longer warranty is a good indication of a brand’s confidence in their product. Look for a brand that offers a warranty of at least 25 years, as this will give you peace of mind and ensure that you are covered in case any issues arise with your solar panel shingles. When it comes to warranties, the devil is in the details. Make sure to read the fine print.
- Consider local availability: Make sure the brand you choose is readily available in your area. You’ll want to make sure you can easily get your hands on replacement shingles if something goes wrong. Choose a brand that has a strong presence in your area and can provide support in a timely manner.
- Work with a professional for installation: Unlike some traditional solar panel setups, installing solar panel shingles is not a DIY project. Make sure to work with a professional solar installer to ensure the job is done properly and safely. A professional solar installer will have the steady hand and technology to pull of any install. They will also be able to help you navigate the labyrinth that is the local permitting and inspections processes
Maintaining Your Solar Panel Shingles
Once you have your solar panel shingles up and running on your roof, the heavy lifting is done. There is some regular maintenance to keep those sleek, energy producing rock stars buzzing at maximum capacity. Here are a few tips for maintaining your solar panel shingles:
- Keep them clean: Just like traditional solar panels, solar panel shingles work best when they are clean, so make sure to keep them free of dirt and debris. This is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of dust or pollution. All you need to clean your solar panel shingles is a soft, damp cloth or a mild cleaning solution. Just be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can very well damage your precious solar panel shingles.
- Monitor for damage: Keep an eye out for any signs of damage to your solar panel shingles. This could include cracks, chips, or other visible damage. If you notice any issues, it’s imperative to address them ASAP to prevent further damage. A professional solar installer can help you assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
- Be mindful of shading: Solar panel shingles need sunlight to function properly. After all, they aren’t called shade panel shingles. So make sure to keep them free of shading. This includes trees, buildings, or other objects that may block the sun’s rays. If you have any large trees or other structures that are shading your solar panel shingles, you might want to consider trimming or removing them. This will allow more sunlight to reach your solar panels.
- Keep an eye on your energy production: Regularly check your energy production to ensure that your solar panel shingles are functioning properly. You can do this by looking at your energy usage data or by using a solar monitoring system. If you notice a sudden drop in energy production, it might be a sign of a problem with your solar panel shingles. A professional solar installer can help you troubleshoot any issues and get your solar panel shingles back up and running in no time.
Conclusion
Solar panel shingles are a great way to save money on energy costs and reduce your environmental impact. They are also a more aesthetically pleasing option than traditional solar panels. When choosing a brand, factors like efficiency, durability, cost, and aesthetics should be your main considerations.
In the words of Forest Gump, “that’s all I got to say about that”. So if you’re ready to take the plunge and go solar, consider giving solar panel shingles a try. Thanks for reading.
How much do solar panel shingles cost?
Installing solar roof shingles can be an investment with big rewards! On average, it costs around $21 to $25 per square foot, with total projects costing around $60,000 to $75,000. That’s a lot, but the benefits can be huge.
Do solar panels replace roof shingles?
Having solar panels on your home will not only help reduce wear on the shingles, but also provide protection from the sun and rain. Solar powered roofing tiles (photovoltaic shingles) can be an alternative to traditional roofing, but solar panels should not be used to replace your roof. Enjoy the benefits of solar energy in a friendly, eco-friendly way!