The world of renewable energy is expanding at a fast rate, providing South Jersey homeowners like yourself with remarkable options. More and more, South Jersey residents are turning to truly innovative options, including GAF Solar Shingles, to harness the power of the sun. With concerns about utility costs and climate on the rise, adopting clean energy is an attractive prospect for many homeowners. Let’s explore why GAF Solar Shingles are gaining favor among South Jersey homeowners and whether this option is also the best for you.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Solar Roofing: GAF Solar Shingles offers South Jersey homeowners a cutting-edge solar roofing solution that seamlessly integrates solar technology with traditional asphalt shingles.
- Aesthetic Appeal: These solar shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of regular roofing materials, maintaining the visual harmony of your home while harnessing solar energy. They lay flush against the roof, unlike traditional solar panels.
- Streamlined Installation: GAF Solar Shingles simplify the installation process by being nailable and compatible with other roofing materials. This streamlines the installation, saving time and minimizing potential complications.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Engineered to withstand South Jersey’s diverse weather conditions, GAF Solar Shingles come with a Class A fire rating and can withstand wind speeds of up to 130 miles per hour, ensuring year-round performance.
- Cost Savings and Increased Home Value: GAF Solar Shingles not only reduce energy costs but can also increase the resale value of your home. Homebuyers are increasingly seeking properties equipped with solar energy solutions, making it a wise investment.
What Are GAF Solar Shingles?
GAF Solar Shingles, also known as GAF Timberline Solar Shingles, is a cutting-edge roofing product that combines solar technology with traditional asphalt shingles. These innovative shingles are designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing roof, offering an aesthetically pleasing and efficient way to harness solar energy. GAF Solar Shingles are created and marketed by GAF Energy, a subsidiary of GAF, one of the largest and most trusted roofing manufacturers in North America.
Here is a look at the mechanical characteristics of GAF Solar Shingles:
Mechanical Characteristics Value
Energy Shingle Dimensions 64 1/4″ x 17 1/8″ x 1″
Active exposure 60″ x 7.56″
Energy Shingle Weight 10.1 lb. (4.58 kg)
Energy Shingle Coverage Approximately 32 energy shingles per square (1.43 kW per square)
Installed System Weight 3.36 lb./sq. ft.
Allowed Roof Pitch 2:12 or greater
Sheathing Minimums 7/16″ OSB or 15/32″ plywood
Max. Installation Altitude 13,123 ft. (4,000 m)
Avg. Ambient Temp. Range -40°F to 122°F (- 40°C to 50°C)
Fire Certification UL 790 Class A
Wind Classification ASTM D3161 Class F
Rapid Shutdown Article 690.12 NEC UL 3741
Module Certifications UL 61730-1, UL 61730-2, Assessed to UL 61215
BIPV System Certification UL 7103
Impact Resistance UL 2218 Class 1
Why Choose GAF Solar Shingles For South Jersey Home?
GAF Solar Shingles have many advantages that put them at the forefront of modern solar energy solutions. These shingles are a direct competitor to other solar shingle and solar panel options. Here are some reasons why GAF Solar Shingles are popular for South Jersey homes:
1. Seamless Aesthetics
GAF Solar Shingles feature a unique design. Unlike clunky solar panels, GAF Solar Shingles are made to mimic traditional roofing materials. In other words, the solar cells lay flush against your roof. They blend seamlessly into the existing roof structure, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your home. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without compromising the visual harmony of your home. South Jersey homeowners value the ability to generate clean energy while maintaining their property’s curb appeal, making GAF Solar Shingles an attractive choice.
2. Streamlined Installation
Installing solar panels often involves hiring multiple contractors for different aspects of the project, such as roofers and solar installers. GAF Solar Shingles, on the other hand, simplify the process. These solar shingles are nailable, meaning they can be installed simultaneously alongside other roofing materials. Do keep in mind that, because of this, you cannot have GAF Solar Shingles installed upon existing shingles. That said, you do not need separate contractors for the installation of the shingles and solar shingles. A GAF-certified contractor like RGB Construction will suffice! This streamlined installation process not only saves time but also minimizes potential complications.
3. Durability and Weather Resistance
South Jersey is no stranger to diverse weather conditions, from heavy rains to snowstorms and strong winds. GAF Solar Shingles are engineered to withstand these challenges. They boast a Class A fire rating and are wind-resistant, withstanding speeds of up to 130 miles per hour. Homeowners in South Jersey can trust that their GAF Solar Shingles will perform reliably year-round, providing peace of mind in all weather conditions.
4. Minimal Maintenance
Compared to traditional solar panels, GAF Solar Shingles require minimal maintenance. The absence of mounting brackets reduces areas for debris collection, making it easier to keep your roof clean. Additionally, GAF Solar Shingles eliminate the common problem of birds nesting beneath traditional solar panels, which can impact energy yield. With less maintenance and potential issues to worry about, homeowners can enjoy hassle-free solar energy generation.
5. Cost Savings
Reducing energy costs is a priority for many South Jersey homeowners. As utility rates continue to rise, GAF Solar Shingles provide a pathway to energy independence and long-term cost savings. You can harness the power of the sun for your home. Furthermore, you can enjoy various state and federal tax incentives, as well as net metering.
6. Increased Home Value
Since GAF Solar Shingles do not impact curb appeal, they double the value of your home easily. Aside from other immediate financial benefits, such as tax credits, GAF Solar Shingles have the ability to increase your home’s overall value. Homebuyers are seeking residences already equipped with solar panels or solar shingles these days. In other words, by installing solar shingles, you are thinking of the future in more ways than one. This investment will translate into a higher resale value for your property, making solar energy even more worthwhile.
7. Long-Term Warranty
Investing in solar energy is a significant decision, and homeowners want assurance that their investment is protected. GAF Energy, the manufacturer of GAF Solar Shingles, offers a 25-year warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects that might cause roof leaks and includes a 15-year wind coverage warranty, vital for regions prone to strong winds like South Jersey. Moreover, the solar production output warranty ensures that your solar shingles will operate at 84.8% of their original rated output even after 25 years.
Looking to Install GAF Solar Shingles on Your South Jersey Home?
GAF Solar Shingles have become the preferred choice for South Jersey homeowners seeking clean and efficient energy solutions. Their seamless integration with existing roofing materials preserves the aesthetics of your home, while the streamlined installation process simplifies the project. GAF Solar Shingles also offer substantial cost savings and are a worthwhile investment.
If you are looking to have GAF Solar Shingles installed on your South Jersey home, be sure to consult with a qualified contractor like RGB Construction. We are a GAF-certified roofing contractor with highly experienced and knowledgeable team members. Give us a call today at 856-264-9093 to learn more about these innovative roofing productions or to get a quote for your roofing project.
