Installing photovoltaic panels is the traditional solution when you want to use solar power at home. This is not a problem if you like the appearance of a rooftop solar system, but there are also many homeowners who prefer to have their roof free and clear of any additional objects.
Luma solar tiles on a hip roof
There are now several manufacturers offering roofing shingles with built-in PV cells, meaning you can generate clean energy without having to install solar panels on top of your roof.
Luma Solar is a leading brand in this market segment, and here we will review the main features of their solar tile roofs.
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.
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.
