Recently released, GAF’s new Timberline Solar shingles offer a unique and innovative approach to harnessing the power of the sun. As an integrated part of your entire roofing system, these solar shingles provide numerous benefits that outweigh those of traditional solar panels. Today, you will learn several benefits that make GAF Timberline Solar shingles an appealing option for your home. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether to get these solar shingles installed by local NJ roofing contractors, like RGB Construction.

 

About GAF Timberline Solar Shingles

Developed by GAF Energy, a leading provider of innovative solar solutions, the Timberline Solar shingles combine the durability and functionality of asphalt shingles with monocrystalline PERC solar panels as a way to harness solar energy. Designed to be easily installed by roofing contractors, GAF Timberline Solar Shingles feature a unique nailable design, eliminating the need for specialized tools or equipment during installation.

 

These shingles are made with high-quality materials, with the top portion made of asphalt for easy installation and the bottom portion housing the solar cells for electricity generation. They are engineered to be fire-resistant, impact-resistant, and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection for your home.

 

Here is the full specification list for GAF’s energy shingle:

 

• Product name: Timberline Solar Energy Shingle
• Rated power: 45 watts
• Solar cell type: Monocrystalline PERC
• Energy conversion efficiency: 22.6%
• Temperature coefficient: -0.39% per Celsius degree
• Ambient temperature range: -40°F to 122°F (-40°C to 50°C)
• Shingle dimensions: 64-1/4″ x 17-1/8″ x 1” (1,632 x 435 x 26 mm)
• Shingle weight: 10.1 lb (4.58 kg)
• Suitable roof pitch: 2:12 or above
• Maximum installation altitude: 13,123 ft (4,000 m)
• Wind classification: ASTM D3161 Class F (successfully tested at 110 mph)
• Impact resistance: UL 2218 Class 1
• Product safety: UL 7103 certification for building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)

 

With these things in mind, let’s take a look at the many benefits of GAF Timberline Solar shingles.

 

 

Performance and Efficiency

GAF Timberline Solar shingles are impressive in terms of performance and energy conversion efficiency. Although a single shingle will produce slightly less electricity when compared to a standard photovoltaic solar panel, they still have exceptional efficiency. GAF Timberline Solar shingles have an energy conversion efficiency of 22.6%, putting them in line with other competitors, such as LG Solar (22.1%), SunPower (22.8%), REC (21.9%), and Panasonic (21.7%). While their performance may vary based on factors like sunlight exposure and geographic location, GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are designed to maximize energy generation and minimize energy waste.

 

Sleek Design and Curb Appeal

Has the look of standard solar panels kept you from going solar? While solar panels do increase your property value, there is no denying that they look clunky atop your roof. What if you could boost your property’s value without taking away from the exterior aesthetics of your home? GAF Timberline Solar shingles offer a solution to this issue. Their nailable design means that they seamlessly integrate into your roof. GAF’s solar shingles are also available in four colors, allowing you to choose the option that best matches your roof’s style, as well as your home’s architecture.

 

Furthermore, since these shingles integrate with the layout of your roof, their performance and efficiency is not impacted. You can utilize more surface area, because you do not have to concern yourself with the bulky hardware required for solar panel installation.

 

Clean, Sustainable Energy

One of the primary advantages of going solar—no matter how you choose to do that—is the ability to use clean and sustainable energy. Furthermore, you can reduce your reliance on traditional fossil fuel-based electricity, which is good for the environment.  GAF’s nailable solar shingles take that advantage up yet another notch by being just as efficient as solar panels.

 

Consider this: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average carbon intensity of electricity in the United States is approximately 0.998 pounds of CO2 per kilowatt-hour (lbs CO2/kWh). By using solar panels to generate electricity, homeowners can offset the need for grid electricity produced from fossil fuels. For each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy produced, an equivalent amount of electricity generated from fossil fuels is saved, resulting in a reduction in CO2 emissions.

 

So, if your GAF Timberline Solar shingle system can provide around 6kW (meaning around 133 shingles), you can reduce 5.988 pounds of CO2 per kW. It may not seem like much, but that is a tremendous benefit to the environment.

 

Low Maintenance

Solar panels require maintenance, including the occasional repair of a damaged panel or electrical component. GAF Timberline Solar shingles require far less. For a homeowner, this means greater convenience and peace of mind. The textured surface of the solar shingle is designed to repel dust and dirt. You may have to occasionally hose the shingles down or brush them with a soft-bristled brush to remove any accumulated debris, but this does not have to be done often. Additionally, these shingles are resistant to pests, eliminating the concern that birds or other creatures will build a nest in or around them, causing damage.

 

If you have to get up on the roof for any reason, you do not have to worry about the shingles. The surface makes them walkable, and so you can do seasonal visual inspections on your roof without upsetting the solar shingles.

 

Excellent Fire and Impact Resistance

When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are designed to prioritize safety with their exceptional fire and impact resistance capabilities. These shingles have achieved a Class A fire rating, which is the highest level of fire protection for roofing materials. This rating indicates that the shingles have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their ability to withstand fire hazards and provide an added layer of security for your home.

 

In addition to their fire resistance, GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are also designed to be highly impact resistant. They are built to withstand various forms of severe weather, including hail, strong winds, and heavy rain. In fact, their wind resistance is rated for wind speeds up to 130 mph. The impact resistance of these shingles minimizes the risk of damage and ensures the longevity of your roof, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

 

Along with these resistances comes enhanced durability. You may think solar shingles would be less durable, but these are designed to stand the test of time. This durability not only reduces the risk of damage but also saves you time and money in the long run by minimizing the need for costly repairs or premature replacements.

 

Easy Installation

GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are built to last and are designed for seamless installation by GAF-certified roofing contractors. Made with high-quality asphalt material, these shingles offer excellent durability and can be easily installed using standard roofing techniques. The integration of solar panels into the shingles eliminates the need for additional equipment or complex installations. Roofing contractors can install them with standard nail guns, making the process efficient and straightforward.

 

While it may take other solar systems up to 3 days to be completely installed on your home, the GAF Timberline Solar shingles will only take a day. The longest segment of the installation process is replacing the roof on your home. Afterwards, there is a visual and electrical component inspection, followed by a performance test. In other words, once your GAF solar roof has been installed, it will be ready for use immediately!

 

Energy & Tax Incentives

Many people consider going solar for the money-saving incentives. You get those same tax benefits when you have GAF Timberline Solar shingles installed. Many regions throughout the US, including NJ, offer sizable tax credits and exemptions for renewable energy installations. You can take advantage of these state and federal incentives to offset the initial investment, saving yourself a substantial amount. Furthermore, you could hook your GAF solar system up for net metering. This way, you can potentially make money off of the unused energy generated by your roof.

 

If you would like more information on tax incentives, you can contact your state or local government, a tax professional, the Department of Energy, EnergyStar.gov, or the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).

 

Exceptional Lifespan and Warranty

GAF Timberline Solar shingles come with a guaranteed lifespan of 25-30 years, beating some of the competition. In addition to that lifespan, these shingles have a minimum energy efficiency of 86% for that length of time. To protect your investment, GAF Timberline Solar shingles also come with a comprehensive warranty package. package that provides coverage for various aspects of the shingles and their installation. All Timberline Solar ES™ Shingles are covered by the Timberline Solar™ Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty, offering great coverage at no cost to the homeowner. No registration is necessary to activate the warranty.

 

The warranty for Timberline Solar shingles includes 25 years of coverage against manufacturing defects that cause leaks. This ensures that if there are any issues with the shingles that result in leaks during the first 25 years after installation, GAF will cover the necessary repairs or replacement.

 

Furthermore, the warranty provides 15 years of coverage against wind damage caused by winds up to 130 mph. This means that if your shingles sustain wind damage within the specified wind speed limit during the first 15 years, GAF will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

 

GAF Timberline Solar shingles also offer 25 years of coverage for Solar Power Output. This coverage ensures that the solar shingles will maintain their power-generating capability for at least 25 years from the date of installation. If there is a significant decline in solar power generation during this period, GAF will provide appropriate compensation.

 

Use a Certified NJ Solar Installer For Better Warranties

Now, if you decide to get your solar shingles installed by a GAF-certified roofing contractor, there is an enhanced warranty and solar addendum available for purchase. The enhanced warranty options available for the roof include the System Plus Limited Warranty, Silver Pledge Limited Warranty, and Golden Pledge Limited Warranty. The specific warranty chosen depends on the selection of qualifying GAF Shingles and the number of qualifying accessory products installed. Two solar addendums are also available: the Solar Plus Addendum and the Solar Max Addendum. These addendums extend the coverage for the solar system, ensuring its performance and functionality for an extended period.

 

Where to Buy GAF Solar Shingles

Now that you have seen the benefits, you may be wondering where to pick up your Timberline solar roof. The good news is that there are a number of solar roofing contractors in NJ like RGB Construction with solar shingles available. You can also go directly to GAF, the manufacturer, to see where they are selling their shingles in your area. Presently, GAF operates in the following states: California, Colorado, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and New Jersey.

 

Looking For NJ Solar Installers For Your Next Roofing Project?

GAF Energy’s Timberline Solar Shingles are paving the way for innovative and sustainable roofing solutions. With their combination of functionality, durability, and energy efficiency, these shingles offer homeowners a compelling option to harness the power of the sun while enjoying the benefits of a reliable and attractive roofing system. The benefits of high performance and efficiency, low maintenance, sleek design, and easy installation make these shingles an exceptional choice. So, why not call RGB Construction to learn more about these shingles and see if they are right for you?

RGB Construction is among the most trusted NJ roofing contractors around. Not only do we have the experience, we have credentials, such as the prestigious GAF Master Elite certification. We’re excited to help you go solar, so give us a call at 856-264-9093 today for your no-obligation solar shingle quote.