staff If you’re an environmentally-conscious homeowner looking to replace your roof, consider solar shingles. They are a great way to help protect the environment and can often be offset by state and federal tax credits.
These solar energy shingles look like seamless additions to your roof and can add value to your home. But they are not without their cons.
Cost
Solar roof shingles might be an appealing alternative for eco-conscious homeowners. In addition to being cost-effective, they can also increase the value of a home. Recent Department of Energy-backed studies found that home buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with solar roofing.
The installation cost of a solar roof depends on various factors. The type of roof, manufacturer, climate, and available incentives impact the overall cost. In contrast to typical solar panels, which may be installed on top of an existing roof, specific systems necessitate the removal of existing shingles before installation.
Additionally, some systems offer upgradable technology so that homeowners can add new features as they become available.
Energy Savings
While a solar roof can be expensive to install, it is expected to save homeowners money on their energy bills by generating a portion of the home’s electricity. In addition, because it combines solar power with traditional roofing materials, it can fit into homes with different roofline styles. This could also increase a home’s resale value.
Two primary types of solar shingles are available on the market: integration and installation systems. The former are installed on top of existing roofs, while the latter are built into a new roof during construction. Both options have advantages and drawbacks, but the most important thing to remember is that the type of solar shingle you choose will depend on your specific energy needs and budget.
Environmental Impact
Homeowners who want to cut their energy costs and carbon footprint often opt for San Diego solar panels. But some homeowners are going further and choosing to get an entire roof that harvests energy. These solar shingles (also called solar tiles) do everything regular shingles do, including protecting the roof from the elements, but with the added energy-harvesting ability.
Traditional electricity generation produces many greenhouse gas emissions, but solar power generates clean energy without releasing any. Furthermore, it minimizes air pollution and climate change by reducing the usage of fossil fuels such as coal.
Solar energy plants typically require water for cooling and cleaning, which can strain available supplies. In addition, the construction of extensive solar facilities requires the clearing of land, which can lead to soil compaction and changes in drainage channels. Using chemicals at solar plant sites can harm the environment if improperly handled.
Maintenance
Maintaining your solar panels at peak performance is essential; you must have them cleaned yearly. Professionals typically do this due to the electrical components and the fact that they are secured to your roof. It is also not recommended that you climb on your roof to clean it because of the electric lines that run through it, endangering your safety.
In addition to cleaning, a professional will check the system and inform you of any issues that require attention. Inspection is necessary to ensure your solar panels perform at their best and maximize your savings.
Many factors influence the cost of maintenance, including panel location and size. Larger systems necessitate more time and effort to inspect. You may also need to pay for extra hours if the contractor needs to take safety precautions on your steep or difficult-to-reach roof. Some contractors offer bundling to decrease the annual fee.
