Solar shingles are an emerging technology that promises to harness the power of the sun without sacrificing the aesthetics of your roof. Yet, innovation has never been immune to myths and misconceptions. If you are interested in getting solar shingles for your home in Wenonah, NJ, there are some things that you need to know, including what is truth and what is fiction.
Myth #1: Solar Shingles Are Less Efficient Than Traditional Solar Panels
One of the most prevalent misconceptions out there is that solar shingles are not as efficient as traditional solar panels. Yes, it is true that a single solar shingle is much less efficient than a larger solar panel, this does not account for various features of solar shingles that may make them more efficient on some rooftops. Keep in mind that modern solar shingles can achieve efficiencies of around 15% to 20% (compared to 20-24% with solar panels), which is quite impressive considering their dual functionality as roofing materials. Moreover, when solar shingles are installed across an entire roof, their cumulative energy production can be substantial, making them a viable option for generating electricity.
For example, GAF Timberline Solar Energy Shingles have a 45-watt rating per shingle, whereas a large solar panel is rated for 400 watts. Yet, when you group several GAF solar shingles together, they end up generating a comparable amount. Since the average American household needs around 30kW a day, you can create a unique layout on your roof to generate that much.
Myth #2: Solar Shingles Are Not Durable
Another myth is that solar shingles are fragile, that they are highly prone to damage and won’t last. However, solar shingles are designed to have two functions: Generate electricity and protect your home. This means that solar shingles are usually rated similarly to architectural shingles when it comes to fire, wind, and rain resistance. Furthermore, they are typically made from durable materials such as tempered glass or high-performance polymers, which enhances their resilience. Solar shingles undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can endure the elements and provide long-lasting performance. In fact, many manufacturers, such as GAF Energy, offer warranties of 20 to 25 years, ensuring the durability and reliability of solar shingle installations.
Myth #3: Solar Shingles Are Prohibitively Expensive
Many people avoid going solar because they think the cost far outweighs the long-term benefits. While it is indeed true that the upfront cost is slightly higher than a traditional roof, investing in solar energy does have benefits. The main benefit is that solar shingles can significantly reduce your electricity bills. If you sign up for net metering, you can even eliminate those bills and replace them with credit over time. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can expect a return on their investment in solar shingles within 7 to 20 years, depending on factors such as electricity rates and local incentives.
Consider that on top of the handsome federal tax credit that you can receive. In 2021, homeowners in Wenonah, NJ could expect a 26% tax credit for their new solar panels or shingles. In 2022, that tax credit was raised to 30% by Congress. While this may change in the future, you can certainly expect to get a large portion of the upfront cost returned to you during tax season!
Additionally, as the demand for solar shingles increases and technology advances, the costs are expected to become more affordable. Over the past decade, the price of solar panels has dropped by about 70%, making solar shingles increasingly accessible for homeowners.
Myth #4: Solar Shingles Only Work When It’s Sunny
Another myth that seems to pervade the conversation of going solar is that solar energy requires sunlight to work. The truth is that solar panels and shingles are not rendered ineffective on cloudy days. Yes, the energy output is going to be reduced, that does not mean that your solar shingles will not generate power. Your home will not go dark!
The materials that make up a solar shingle can also absorb energy from diffused sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. In fact, a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that even under heavy cloud cover, solar shingles can still produce up to 25% of their maximum power output.
Furthermore, if you are concerned about your home not receiving enough solar power, you can include a solar battery. A solar battery, also known as a solar energy storage system or solar battery storage, is a device that stores the excess electricity generated by solar panels for later use. It is an essential component of a solar energy system that enhances the efficiency and reliability of solar power.
Solar batteries also offer backup power capabilities. In the event of a power outage, the stored energy in the solar battery can be used to power essential loads, ensuring continued electricity supply for critical appliances or devices. This feature is particularly valuable for areas prone to grid disruptions or for individuals who desire backup power for essential services.
Many solar shingle systems, GAF Timberline Solar shingles included, can be hooked up to an alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) solar battery to ensure you always have enough electricity to go around.
Myth #5: Solar Shingles Are Not Aesthetically Pleasing
Solar panels are generally thought of as bulky and unattractive when on a home. So, many Wenonah, NJ homes have gone without the benefits of solar panels. However, even solar panels can increase your property’s value by $20 for every dollar you save on electricity. A 2019 report from Zillow also confirmed that solar installations added about 4% to the price of a property, which averaged out to about $9,300. That amount of money alone is obviously attractive when you are trying to move, but think about it for a moment. If solar panels and shingles were unwanted, would people be willing to spend more to have a property that has them already installed?
Now, consider this: Solar shingles are not bulky like solar panels, because they integrate into the roof, much like asphalt shingles. Solar shingles also come in a variety of colors, styles, and textures to match your home’s architectural style. Take, for instance, GAF Solar shingles. They nail onto your roof like a regular asphalt shingle and blend seamlessly into your roof. They also come in several colors. This is a visually appealing alternative to traditional solar panels—one that promises an even greater return because they look so nice.
Myth #6: Solar Shingles Require A Lot of Maintenance
Since solar shingles are made of expensive materials and electrical components, they must require a lot of upkeep to function optimally, right? Well, no. In reality, solar shingles are far more easy to take care of than solar panels, and even those are relatively low maintenance. Solar shingles do not have any moving parts, so the risk of mechanical failure is extremely low. As mentioned earlier, they are made with highly durable materials, so even if something heavy hits your solar shingles, they are not going to shatter.
Solar shingles have the same maintenance requirements as solar panels: Periodic checks and light cleaning. Areas with high pollution or pollen—like Wenonah, NJ—may find that they have to rinse off their solar shingles more often, but this is not too time consuming. At most, you may have to get onto the roof to gently mist the solar shingles and wipe them clean with a soft bristled brush. You can monitor energy output with a smartphone app or online portal, as well.
It is also worth noting that most solar shingles have some kind of self-cleaning capabilities, thanks to their smooth surfaces and anti-soiling coatings, which further minimizes maintenance needs.
Myth #7: Solar Shingles Are Difficult to Install
Solar panels can be complex and time-consuming to install, usually taking about a month or longer from start to finish. Solar shingles, on the other hand, may take a couple of weeks. This duration includes the entire process, from meeting a local solar shingle installer in Wenonah, NJ to having the shingles installed and your system switched on.
The solar shingles themselves, though, are incredibly easy to handle. Though every manufacturer is different, most solar shingles are designed for seamless installation. For example, GAF Solar shingles are nailable, meaning that they are installed like asphalt shingles. They also blend with the regular asphalt shingles on the roof. With solar shingles, you are avoiding the integration of bulky mounting brackets and other mechanisms. The only additional step is the wiring, but even that process is easily managed by a reliable team of contractors.
The only downside to the installation process is that you cannot have solar shingles installed onto an existing roof. Generally, solar shingles have to be installed with a new roof, so you are also purchasing a roof replacement. Solar panels, on the other hand, are installed over the existing shingles.
In short, your solar shingles can be installed on your roof within a day. After that, you merely have to wait for an electrician to get your system integrated with the rest of the power grid.
Myth #8: Solar Shingles Do Not Work When It’s Cold
Yes, solar shingles can work effectively in cold environments. In fact, solar panels, including solar shingles, can often perform optimally in colder temperatures compared to extremely hot conditions. Although New Jersey is not getting as cold as it once did, there is no reason to fret when the snow does fall or the temperature drops.
Solar shingles generate electricity by converting sunlight into usable energy. While it is true that solar panels operate more efficiently in sunlight, they do not rely on the heat from the sun to generate electricity. Instead, they depend on the photons in sunlight to excite electrons in the solar cells and create an electric current. This process can occur even in cold weather as long as there is sufficient sunlight.
In cold environments, solar shingles can actually benefit from the cooler temperatures. Solar panels typically experience a decrease in efficiency as they heat up. When solar cells become too hot, their ability to convert sunlight into electricity can be reduced. However, in colder temperatures, solar shingles can maintain a more favorable operating temperature, allowing them to maintain or even improve their efficiency.
Because of this, colder countries have started utilizing solar energy. Scandinavian countries like Norway and Sweden are using renewable energy more commonly. Alaska, Canada, Iceland, and Denmark, all known for their cold temperatures, have switched over to solar energy. In fact, in Alaska, many remote communities have turned to solar power to meet their energy needs. Solar energy systems are being used to power homes, schools, and other facilities, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source in this cold region.
Looking For a Solar Shingle Installer in Wenonah, NJ?
Solar shingles are a brand new technology that is already changing how homeowners in Wenonah, NJ power their homes and lives. Hopefully, this has cleared up any misconceptions you have heard. Now that you know the truth about solar energy, you can make an educated choice. Out of all these myths and misconceptions, there is one thing that is certainly true: You need a reliable and local roofing company to handle the installation of your new roof.
RGB Construction has been serving the Wenonah, NJ community for many years, and we are proud to begin offering GAF Solar shingles to our clients. As a GAF-certified roofer, we guarantee exceptional service and high-end products. Get in touch with us today at 856-264-9093 to schedule a consultation or ask about our new solar shingle service.
