Solar shingles are increasing in popularity due to their advanced design and innovation. These shingles are designed to generate electricity with the use of semiconductors, and they’re the perfect roofing material to select for those who want to create a green and eco-friendly home because they can significantly reduce your energy usage and carbon footprint.
What are Solar Roof Shingles?
Compared to solar panels that are mounted directly on top of the roof, solar shingles are integrated into the roof to create a seamless look. They’re becoming a popular choice among homeowners because they’re highly functional and practical compared to installing oversized solar panels that can stand out on the home and affect the curb appeal of the property.
This type of roofing material will not only allow the property to generate electricity to use each day, but they can remain camouflaged and out of sight. Most people passing by the home will barely be able to spot the shingles because of how well they blend in and enhance a home’s aesthetics.
How Do Solar Roof Shingles Work?
Solar roof shingles were first released to the public in 2005 and have continued to increase in popularity due to their useful design. They’re often made with silicone materials, which are used as semiconductors on each shingle. Thin-film solar cells are also common to use and include cadmium telluride or copper indium gallium selenide.
These shingles harness the flow of electrons once the CdTe, CIGS, or silicon material has contact with the sunlight. Recently, companies have begun announcing new solar roofs that could be installed, which can be up to three times stronger and more durable than traditional asphalt shingles. This allows them to offer all-weather protection and boost the value of the home once they’re in place. This type of roof can withstand winds around165 mph, as well as hail as large as 1.75 inches. The shingles can reduce the number of repairs or maintenance that needs to be performed over time while also reducing the cost of electricity on the property.
How are Solar Shingles Installed?
Solar shingles are significantly lighter and more flexible than solar panels, which makes them easy to install and allows them to offer more versatility. The sturdy and durable construction of each shingle allows them to offer enough protection on the home in all types of weather conditions to ensure they hold up well long-term. You don’t have to worry about mounting them, and they may even be used to replace worn or damaged areas on the roof that need new roofing materials. This can allow the installation project to be more cost-effective compared to older models of solar panels that had to be mounted onto existing roofing materials.
A professional roofer that is trained in installing solar shingles will be required to perform this type of task due to the unique design of this type of roofing material.
Solar shingles continue to become more innovative, versatile, and effective They can transform the property and create an eco-friendly environment with their sleek design and utility.