Solar Tiles vs Solar Panels: Cost, Efficiency, & Installation

When it comes to installing a solar energy system, property owners have a few options. One of the most popular choices is to use traditional solar panels, which have been available for decades. Another option is to use solar roof tiles, also known as solar shingles, which are a newer technology that is growing in popularity. While both solar panels and solar roof tiles generate renewable energy from the sun, there are some key differences between the two options.

Solar panels are the more well-known option, consisting of large rectangular panels that are installed on top of an existing roof. They are typically made of silicon and can generate electricity even on cloudy days. The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly in recent years, making them a more affordable option for homeowners and businesses looking to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources. 

On the other hand, solar roof tiles, such as the Tesla Solar Roof, are designed to replace traditional roof tiles entirely. They blend in seamlessly with the rest of the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for property owners subject to homeowners’ association regulations. However, solar roof tiles are still a newer technology and may be more expensive than traditional solar panels.

What are Solar Shingles?

Solar shingles are a newer form of solar technology that blends seamlessly into your roof, serving as both a roofing material and a solar panel. They’re a type of solar roof technology, like the Tesla Solar Roof, and are designed to replace existing roof tiles or shingles. This means that they can be integrated into your existing roof, making them a popular option for those who want to add solar energy to their home without the need for extensive roof renovations. Solar shingles harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, making them a smart and sustainable choice for homeowners who are looking to reduce their energy bills and their environmental impact. 

How Does it Work?

Solar shingles work similarly to conventional solar panels by harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity for your home. Instead of installing a traditional solar system on top of your roof, solar shingles are integrated into the roof itself. This means that solar shingles can take the place of traditional roof tiles, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing look for your home.

While solar shingles can be more expensive than conventional solar panels, they offer a unique advantage in terms of their appearance and ability to blend in with your existing roof. Additionally, installing solar shingles can be a simpler process compared to a traditional solar panel system, as the shingles are installed as part of the roofing process rather than being added on afterward. Overall, if you’re looking to make your home more energy-efficient while maintaining its visual appeal, solar shingles may be a great option to consider.

Types of Solar Roofs

Solar roofs come in two main types – solar panels and solar shingles. Traditional solar panels are installed on a home’s roof with racks and brackets. They can be attached to almost any roof and are made up of a group of solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. Solar shingles are a newer type of solar roofing that integrates directly into a home’s roofline. They are designed to replace traditional roofing materials and are made up of thin-film solar cells. While solar shingles cost more than traditional solar panels, they are more aesthetically pleasing and can blend in better with a home’s existing roof. When it comes to solar shingles, however, there are two types: interlocked and integrated: 

Interlocked

Interlocked solar roofs are another type of solar roof that uses individual solar shingles or tiles that interlock to form a complete solar roofing system. Interlocked solar roofs are designed to integrate into a home’s existing roofline and provide a more streamlined look than traditional solar panels. The interlocking design also helps to prevent water damage and leaks, making them a durable and long-lasting option for homeowners. Installing interlocked solar roofs is more complex than installing traditional solar panels, but the end result can be a more attractive and efficient solar system.

Integrated

Integrated solar roofs are a type of solar roofing system that combines the benefits of solar power with traditional roofing materials. They are designed to look like traditional roofing materials but are made with solar cells embedded directly into the roof tiles or shingles. Integrated solar roofs are typically more expensive than traditional solar panels or solar shingles, but they can also be more efficient and aesthetically pleasing. 

They are also more durable and can last longer than traditional roofing materials. Installing integrated solar roofs can be more complicated and time-consuming than installing traditional solar panels, but the end result can be a solar system that is seamlessly integrated into a home’s existing roofline.

Traditional Solar Panels vs Solar Shingles

When considering a solar energy system for your home or business, the choice often comes down to traditional solar panels vs solar shingles. While both options harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for your property, there are some notable differences to consider.

One major advantage of solar shingles is their aesthetic appeal. Unlike standard solar panels that can appear bulky and industrial, solar shingles blend in with traditional roofing materials, making them a more visually appealing option. Additionally, in some cases, solar shingles may be more cost-effective than traditional solar panels, particularly for new construction or when replacing an existing roof. However, it’s important to note that solar shingles cost more than standard solar panels and may not be as efficient in terms of generating solar power.

Ultimately, the decision to install solar shingles or solar panels comes down to individual preferences and the specifics of the property in question. It’s important to consult with a professional in the solar energy industry to determine which option is right for you, taking into consideration factors such as your energy needs, budget, and available space to install solar shingles or panels.

Cost

In terms of cost, solar shingles are generally more expensive than standard solar panels. While solar panels can be installed on top of an existing roof, solar shingles require an entire roof replacement, which can be costly. Additionally, the cost per square foot of solar shingles is generally higher than that of solar panels. However, it’s worth noting that solar shingles may be more cost-effective in situations where a new roof is needed anyway. In those cases, the cost of the solar shingles can be partially offset by the savings that would have been incurred by replacing the roof with traditional roofing materials.

Installation

Installing solar shingles is similar to a total roof replacement, whereas installing solar panels is generally a more straightforward process. While solar shingles may be more aesthetically pleasing, the installation process can be more complicated and time-consuming. In contrast, solar panel installation is relatively straightforward, and the energy efficiency gained from the installation can offset the cost of installation over time. Additionally, building-integrated photovoltaics, or BIPVs, can be used to create an integrated solar system that is more visually appealing than traditional solar panel installation. However, BIPVs are still relatively new and may not be as widely available as solar panels or shingles.

Efficiency

In terms of efficiency, both solar tiles and solar shingles have lower efficiency ratings than traditional solar panel installation. This is due to their smaller size and the limitations of the technology. However, solar tiles and shingles are still able to generate significant amounts of solar power, which can offset the cost of installation over time. Additionally, installing solar shingles or tiles as part of a roof replacement can improve the energy efficiency of the building overall. While the efficiency of solar panel installation is higher, the difference in efficiency between solar panels and solar shingles or tiles may not be significant enough to justify the added cost of traditional solar panel installation.

Power Output

When it comes to power output, solar roof installation can generate a similar amount of solar power as installing solar panels on an existing roof. However, solar shingles or tiles may not be able to generate as much solar power as traditional solar panel installation due to their smaller size and lower efficiency ratings. This means that homeowners may need to install more solar shingles or tiles to generate the same amount of solar power as they would with traditional solar panel installation. This can increase the overall cost of installation and may not be a practical solution for some homeowners.

Lifespan

When it comes to lifespan, most solar shingles are designed to last for around 25-30 years, similar to solar panels. However, the lifespan of a solar roof installation also depends on other factors such as the quality of the materials used, the maintenance of the solar system, and the conditions of the local environment. In general, a solar roof installation can last for decades, but it’s important to choose a reliable installer and high-quality products for maximum lifespan and performance. If you’re in need of a new roof, a solar system can be a great investment as it can double as a new roof and a solar power generator for your home.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning and maintaining solar shingles or solar panels is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Solar panels or shingles should be inspected regularly for dirt, debris, or any signs of damage. For solar panels, cleaning can be done with a soft-bristle brush and soapy water, while solar shingles may require professional cleaning. Maintenance for a solar system may include checking the wiring and connections, inspecting the roof for damage, and monitoring energy production. While solar installers typically offer maintenance services, it’s important to also educate yourself on the proper care of your solar system to ensure it continues to generate renewable energy for your home.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics are an important consideration when it comes to solar installations, especially for homeowners who value the appearance of their homes. While standard solar panels can appear bulky and unattractive, solar shingles and solar roof tiles are designed to blend in with traditional roofing materials for a more seamless look. The Tesla solar shingles, for example, are made to resemble a metal roof and can provide a sleek and modern look for a home. Additionally, solar shingles and solar tiles are typically more expensive per square foot than traditional roofing materials, but they can also produce renewable energy and potentially save homeowners money on their energy bills over time. Ultimately, the choice between solar panels and solar shingles depends on the homeowner’s priorities and budget, but solar shingles can offer a more aesthetically pleasing option for those looking to produce renewable energy without sacrificing the look of their home.

FAQs

Conclusion

Choosing between solar panels and solar shingles is a matter of personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of your property. While solar panels are the more established technology and generally more affordable, solar shingles are rapidly gaining popularity due to their sleek design and ability to integrate with traditional roofing materials. When making a decision, it’s important to consider the cost, installation process, efficiency, power output, lifespan, cleaning and maintenance, and aesthetics of each option.

Ultimately, both shingles and solar panels offer an excellent way to generate renewable energy and reduce your carbon footprint. Whichever you choose, it’s important to work with a reputable installer who can provide guidance on selecting the right system for your needs and ensure a professional installation. With the right system in place, you can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy while reducing your energy costs and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Updated on 06-14-23