Solar Roofs

Solar Panel Pros and Cons – Are Solar Panels Worth the Cost?

If you are one of the many homeowners considering the installation of solar panels on your home’s rooftop, then undoubtedly one of the burning questions on your mind is whether the pros of solar energy outweigh the cons when it comes to solar panels for homes.

A new asphalt shingle roof with PV solar panels

Let’s examine the main benefits and drawbacks of residential solar energy systems to help you make a well-informed decision.

Advantages:

  1. Dramatic reduction in price per watt installed
  2. Short payback period
  3. Reduced reliance on power grid
  4. Electric energy price security
  5. Ample federal tax credits and local incentives
  6. Mandatory net metering rules
  7. Solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs)
  8. Clean renewable energy source
  9. Increased property values
  10. It’s easy to find a quality solar installer

Disadvantages:

  1. May not be suitable for some homes
  2. Won’t work during a blackout or power outage (unless…)
  3. Poor installation may lead to fire hazards
  4. Poor quality installation may lead to premature roof leaks
  5. The weight of solar panels can put excessive stress on the roof-frame
  6. Pollution and environmental hazards
  7. The “bulky” look of solar panels may turn off some people
  8. No energy production at night
  9. Solar battery storage is expensive
  10. Use of rare earth metals

Benefits and Advantages:

1. Dramatic reduction in the cost per installed watt

One of the strongest benefits of domestic solar power today is that the solar price per watt (PPV) installed has come down from almost $9.00 per watt installed in 2008, to the current average cost ranging from $2.80 to $3.50 per watt installed, before the 30% federal solar investment tax credits (ITC) that apply to the full amount paid for a new solar system.

Did you know? Homeowners going solar today are paying almost 66% less than they used to pay for solar energy just a little over a decade ago! That’s a very significant reduction in the upfront cost of investment, especially if you take into account the rate of inflation since 2008.

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SunTegra Solar Roof Tiles & Shingles Cost – The Ultimate Guide

Solar roof shingles can be an attractive option for homeowners who don’t like the appearance of conventional solar panels. Unlike the traditional PV installations where panels are mounted on top of the roof, solar shingles and tiles become part of the roof itself.

Suntegra integrated solar tiles on a roof

As you might guess from the name, these are roof shingles with built-in photovoltaic cells, which means you don’t need to install two separate components. SunTegra is one of the leading solar tile roof providers in the US, and their products can easily integrate with both asphalt shingle and concrete tile roofs.

SunTegra was founded in 2013, and the company was originally called Integrated Solar Technology (IST). SunTegra was founded by Oliver Koehler, who had already accumulated 15 years of experience in the solar power industry.

As of 2024, SunTegra has expanded to Canada and Mexico, and the company offers two main products: solar shingles and solar tiles. Each product line has different dimensions and specifications, adapting to many different types of roofs.

SunTegra is also working on new solar products for gardens and patios, which will become available in the near future. They are also developing solar products for building facades and other vertical surfaces, which will also be available for commercial and community buildings.

Suntegra Solar Shingles and Solar Tiles: What Is the Difference?

If you visit the SunTegra website, you will notice they offer two main products: solar tiles and solar shingles. Each product is designed for different types of roofs, and below we will provide a detailed comparison.

Suntegra solar tiles on a concrete roof

Both SunTegra products use monocrystalline solar cells, achieving a rather high electricity output throughout their service life.

SunTegra Solar Tiles are designed for concrete or clay tile roofs, and they can be installed just like traditional concrete tiles. You can use them in a new construction project, or you can upgrade an existing concrete or clay tile roof without having to replace all the tiles. SunTegra solar tiles are suitable not only for homes, but also for commercial buildings and carports.

SunTegra Solar Shingles are designed to replace asphalt shingles, but they are also compatible with other low-profile roofing materials. They use 50% fewer parts than a traditional solar panel system, and they can also be installed twice as fast. SunTegra shingles have a lightweight design, and they have built-in wiring to speed up their installation.

The following table compares the features and specifications of both solar roof products from SunTegra. Keep in mind that they are designed for different types of roofs, and they are not competing products.

Both solar tiles and shingles can be used for partial upgrades, meaning you can go solar without having to worry about the expense associated with completely replacing the existing roof.

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Roofing Materials & Installation Costs: Shingles, Metal, Flat Roofs

Are you exploring the most suitable roofing options for your home? If so, roofing material types and their costs must be top of mind.

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This guide will help you explore the most popular residential roofing materials, including pricing and installation costs.

Roofing Materials Costs

Asphalt Shingles:

Dimensional shingles roof on a house

Asphalt shingles are generally less expensive than other roofing materials like metal and are relatively easy to install (unlike metal roofing), resulting in a lower overall cost for a new asphalt roof. However, premium (designer) asphalt shingles, such as those from GAF, CertainTeed, and Malarkey, can be as expensive as high-end roofing materials like metal. Here’s a breakdown of different types of asphalt shingles:

3-tab shingles (strip shingles):

  • Materials Cost: $90 to $120 per square (100 sq. ft.), excluding trim.
  • Characteristics: Least costly, thin, not designed for longevity, flat appearance without much dimensionality.
  • Top Products: GAF Royal Sovereign, CertainTeed XT 25, Owens Corning Supreme.
  • Wind Rating: Up to 60 MPH.
  • Installation Note: Care needed for alignment to avoid vertical lines running off.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 10 years to 20 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

Architectural (dimensional) shingles:

  • Materials Cost: $100 to $150 per square (100 sq. ft.), excluding trim.
  • Characteristics: Midrange, multiple layers, dimensional appearance, thicker, and sturdier.
  • Wind Rating: At least 110 MPH, up to 130 MPH with the 6-nails per shingle installation.
  • Top Products: Owens Corning Duration, GAF Timberline HDZ, CertainTeed Landmark
  • Specialty: CoolRoof rated shingles eligible for rebates in California.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 15 years to 25 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

Premium (designer) shingles:

  • Materials Cost: $200 to $400 per square (100 sq. ft.).
  • Characteristics: Custom-looking, multiple layers, distinctive appearance, performance on par with high-end architectural shingles.
  • Top Products: CertainTeed Grand Manor, Owens Corning Berkshire, GAF Camelot, Malarkey Windsor.
  • Disadvantage: No manufacturer’s warranty for hail damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: 20 years to 35 years, depending on local climate and roof maintenance.

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