Throughout the past decade, many solar systems have been launched. With all the different options available, how do you know which to choose from? The GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing system is innovative design with energy shingles, providing a multitude of benefits that outweigh traditional solar paneling. The following article will highlight the benefits of the GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing system and provide information as to why solar shingles are superior to traditional solar panel systems.
Traditional Rack-Mounted Solar Installation
Traditional solar panel systems are mounted directly on the roof, and while doing so the integrity of the roof is damaged. Brackets, that create holes in the roof decking, are drilled into the roof’s membrane to mount the panels – potentially causing structural damage and leaks. Damage related to or resulting from these drilled holes is not covered by the roof warranties.
Traditional Solar Panels: Problematic Roof Penetrations
Along with damaging the roof decking with installation of traditional solar panels, these panels can provide easy access for animals, birds and other creatures to create nests and habitations under the panels.
Traditional Solar Panels: Gaps Can Lead to Critter Infestations
Different pre-existing roofing material can also affect the traditional rack-mounted solar panel’s integrity. Different roofing materials have disparate heat-retention properties and reflectivity, which can significantly influence the energy production of the solar panels. Roof surfaces must sound and up to code to bear the weight of a traditional rack-mounted system.
GAF Timberline Solar™ Roofing System
With a GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing system, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that their solar system is actually built into the shingles! There are no panels or heavy tiles to weigh the roof down. While the system weighs less, it is strong enough to withstand wind up to 130 mph and can be walked on without issue. For homeowners who already know the quality of GAF roofing products, the Timberline Solar™ roof has the same wind and water-shedding warranty coverage as Timberline HDZ. Along with the warranty on the asphalt shingles, your new GAF Solar Roof will have the option for the GAF Solar Max warranty, all tracked with a homeowners account, that will guarantee for 25 years that your solar system will produce energy as quoted in your proposal and hold up – something that cannot be said for some other traditional solar panels.
Traditional solar panels can be unsightly. GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing systems were created to be sleek and blend into your home. They lay flush with the shingles and are not installed with roof brackets penetrating your roof decking. This positive aesthetic adds to the curb appeal of your home, as well as the value.
If you're on the fence about whether you should install solar shingles or solar panels, one of the main factors to consider is the condition of your existing roof. There is no better time to upgrade your roof than before you install any type of solar system. Solar shingles will likely make the most sense, both economically and aesthetically, if your roof needs to be replaced before installing solar panels, and especially if you're not a fan of the "look" of solar panels on your roof and the problems they can cause over time.
GAF Timberline Solar™ shingles meet the UL 7103 certification, which means it’s been through rigorous testing from an independent certification company that’s been around for over one hundred years. Timberline Solar shingles also have the highest efficiency rating of any solar shingle product on the market (about 23%).
The lifespan of your solar roof depends on the manufacturer and the quality of installation. Above all else, you'll want to make sure you have an installer you can trust. Renaissance Roofing, Inc. has been around for almost thirty years and strives for quality installations. Our motto is, “It takes more than shingles to make a roof”, and the first step to a quality solar installation is with a solid roofing system.
