The integration of renewable energy solutions into our homes is becoming increasingly important, both for environmental sustainability and cost savings. Now, you can get the best of both words with GAF Timberline Solar shingles, an innovative approach to solar power and traditional roofing materials. If you are interested in these solar shingles, then the next thing to do is research the installation process, so you can make an informed decision about choosing GAF Timberline Solar shingles.

 

 

What are GAF Timberline Solar Shingles?

Timberline Solar shingles are a unique addition to common roofing materials. Not only do they function like conventional asphalt shingles when protecting the roof, they also have the additional advantage of generating solar energy. In fact, GAF Timberline Solar shingles are fabricated with Mono PERC cells, a kind of photosensitive material that is capable of withstanding extreme heat. Furthermore, they are water-shedding and will withstand wind speeds up to 130 mph.

 

This integration allows homeowners like you to reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources, resulting in potential cost savings and environmental benefits.

 

Here are the main specifications of the Timberline solar shingle:

 

• Dimensions: 64 1/4 x 17 1/8 x 1 inches
• Roof pitch: 2:12 or greater
• Weight: 10.1 pounds
• Maximum installation altitude: 13,000 ft
• Wind classification: minus 40 to 122 degrees F
• Average temperature range: Class F (up to 130 mph)

 

What are the Benefits of Installing Timberline Solar Shingles?

Installing Timberline Solar Shingles offers numerous advantages. The primary benefit is the potential for long-term cost savings on electricity bills. Solar power tends to be cheaper than utility rates, and the energy generated by the solar shingles can supplement a home’s power supply, potentially offsetting or even eliminating electricity expenses. Additionally, by switching to solar energy, homeowners may be eligible for government incentives and tax credits, further enhancing the financial benefits.

 

In addition to the cost-effectiveness of these solar shingles, you also get to enjoy the aesthetics. Solar shingles do not sit atop your existing roof like traditional solar panels. Instead, they are built into the roof, laying flat alongside the other shingles on your roof.

 

Since solar shingles are more visually appealing than conventional photovoltaic panels, they can also increase your property value. Research shows that homes equipped with solar panels have the potential to fetch a higher selling price compared to similar homes without solar installations. According to CNBC and Zillow, solar panels can boost a home’s value by up to 4.1%. Imagine how much your property’s value will increase when the solar shingles don’t negatively impact its curb appeal!

 

The Installation Process of GAF Timberline Solar Shingles

The installation process of GAF Timberline Solar Shingles is streamlined and efficient, facilitated by GAF-certified roofing contractors like RGB Construction. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

 

1. Consultation and Preliminary Steps

The first step to getting a Timberline Solar roof installed on your home is to receive a consultation with NJ solar installer. During this consultation, your roof is going to be inspected by a technician or two. They will evaluate the suitability of the shape and slope of the roof to see if you can have solar shingles installed. Some sections of the roof may not qualify, but other places may. Once the areas of the roof where the solar shingles should be installed are figured out, the consultation moves on to the cost. Depending on the NJ roofing contractor you have chosen, there may be financing options available.

 

Make sure that the installation plan and cost aligns with your needs. If there are any specific questions you have, or if there are any requirements, now is the time to discuss those things so that the contractor can take them into consideration.

 

2. Scheduling The Day

Once the consultation is complete and you decide to move forward with installing GAF Timberline Solar shingles on your home, you and the contractor will choose a convenient date. Select a time and day that is not in the middle of any major events, as you will need time to prepare your yard and home for the installation. This also gives the NJ solar installers time to coordinate with the local authorities and obtain any permits that may be necessary.

 

3. Roof Replacement and Solar Shingle Installation

Prior to or on the day of your scheduled installation, a dumpster may be delivered to your yard to contain any debris from your roof. Since GAF Timberline Solar shingles replace the ones currently on your home, the first half of the day will be spent removing the traditional shingles from your rooftop. At the same time, the certified roofers will be installing the Timberline Solar shingles. The shingles use DecoTech technology, meaning that they are attached to your roof just like conventional shingles—with a nail. This means that the overall process is simple, reducing the amount of installation time required.

 

Now, you may be wondering, how does this work? As mentioned earlier, GAF Timberline Solar shingles are innovative. They combine conventional asphalt shingles with monocrystalline solar cells to form the future of roofing. On the top of the shingle is the asphalt—that is where the nail goes. Since the shingles are nailed to the decking, you do not have to worry about any of the extra mounting or racks used with traditional solar panels. Because these shingles are fixed to the roof like an asphalt shingle, installation is a breeze for GAF-certified contractors.

 

On the bottom of the solar shingle is the solar cell, where the electricity is generated. Once installed, the solar portion will overlap the top of the solar shingle laid down before it. That is how the shingles lay smooth against the roof. You will notice that there are some semi-circular tubes or bars set vertically on the roof. Those are where the wiring is located for the shingles.

 

4. Electrical Component Installation

With the roof replacement and shingle installation out of the way, the next step is to install the electrical components. In order for your solar shingles to function, you need these electrical parts to assist with the collection and conversion of solar energy into electricity. Wiring, inverters, and other essential equipment will be integrated into the GAF Timberline Solar shingles by an electrician.

 

5. Inspection and Verification

After the installation is complete, a thorough inspection is conducted by the GAF-certified roofing contractor. This inspection ensures that all components of the solar roofing system are correctly installed and in good working order. The inspection process verifies the safety, performance, and functionality of the system, providing you with peace of mind.

 

Here are some of things that occur during the inspection and verification of your new Timberline Solar shingles:

 

1. Visual Inspection: The contractor examines the newly installed shingles to make sure they are properly aligned and fastened. They also check for any damages, like chips or cracks, and loose connections.
2. Connection Inspection: Next, the inspector moves to the electrical connections. Before they can switch on the solar shingles, they must verify that the electrical connections are secure, insulated, and comply with local electrical codes.
3. Performance Testing: The test involves putting the solar shingles under various lighting conditions to measure how much electricity they generate. If the amount generated is within the average range, the system passes.
4. System Integration: If a solar battery or other additional components are installed alongside the solar shingles, the contractor verifies the integration and compatibility of these components with the overall system.
5. Safety: Groundings and other protections are checked.
6. Compliance: The contractor ensures that the GAF Timberline Solar shingles comply with regulations, building codes, and permits.
7. Documentation: Finally, you receive the documentation and warranties included with your new roof. The contractor will take this time to review the terms and conditions of the warranty in case of any future claims or maintenance.

 

6. Activation and Energy Generation

Once the installation and inspection are successfully completed, the Timberline Solar Shingle system is ready to generate clean, renewable energy. You can now start enjoying the benefits of the solar roofing system, which may include reduced reliance on traditional power sources and potential savings on monthly utility expenses. The energy generated by the solar shingles can be used to power various parts of the home, providing sustainable and cost-effective electricity. In some regions, you may even be able to receive credit on your electric bill, depending on how much energy your GAF Timberline Solar shingles generate.

 

 

 

How Does the Installation of Timberline Solar Shingles Differ From Solar Panel Installation?

GAF Timberline Solar shingles are designed to integrate seamlessly with your roof, just like traditional shingles. They can be nailed directly onto the roof surface, which simplifies the installation process and eliminates the need for additional mounting racks or frames. On the other hand, mount rack solar panel installations require the installation of aluminum or steel mounting racks or frames on the roof to support and secure the solar panels. These racks or frames are then used to attach the solar panels to the roof. Brackets or clamps usually connect the solar panels to the racks.

 

Depending on the complexity of the solar panel installation, it may take 1-3 days to complete the process. Conversely, GAF Timberline Solar shingles require only a day to install. This is much more convenient for families living busy lives.

 

As you can imagine, solar panel mounting racks are also visible on the roof surface. You will certainly notice that solar panels have been attached to the roof, especially since the color of the panels may clash with the color of your shingles. On the other hand, Timberline Solar shingles are designed to blend in with the rest of the roof. The solar cells are integrated into the shingles themselves, resulting in a cohesive and visually attractive roof.

 

Can You Install GAF Solar Shingles Without a Roof Replacement?

Balking at the idea of having to get a brand new roof when installing GAF Timberline Solar shingles? Unfortunately, you must get a new roof when installing these solar shingles. The solar shingles are designed to be installed by GAF-certified contractors during the construction of a new roof or at the same time as a roof replacement. Therefore, if you already have a recently replaced roof and want to go solar, traditional rooftop solar panels would be a more suitable option.

 

Can You Install a Solar Battery Alongside GAF Timberline Solar Shingles?

Yes, you can install a solar battery alongside Timberline Solar Shingles. A solar battery allows you to store excess electricity generated by your solar shingles during the day and use it during times when the sun is not shining, such as at night or during cloudy weather. After your solar shingle installation, you may opt to have an AC-powered battery, such as a Tesla Powerwall or sonnenCore installed. Usually, these require a different contractor to come in after your have the solar roof placed. Alternatively, DC-powered solar batteries, like the LG Chem Prime, can be installed alongside your new solar shingles, though they may need additional equipment to function.

 

 

Looking For NJ Solar Installers?

When you are looking to harness the power of the sun without detracting from your home’s curb appeal, consider GAF Timberline Solar shingles. Additionally, the installation process is unlike traditional solar panel systems, since the shingles function just like normal roofing materials. Timberline Solar shingles give you, the homeowner, the advantage of clean energy generation, potential cost savings, and added property value.

 

If you are looking for NJ roofing contractors who are also GAF-certified, look no farther than RGB Construction. We are among the first contractors in NJ to offer these innovative solar shingles. Give us a call today to learn more about GAF Timberline Solar shingles or to receive your no-obligation quote.