Need a new roof? Looking for ways to be more sustainable? Our Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingle is the world’s first nailable solar shingle. This revolutionary product provides durability and protection while also looking beautiful. Bonus: it’s also financially smart, since you may save on your energy bills over time. So if you’re considering a Timberline Solar™ roof, here are answers to some common questions we receive. And be sure to check out part 1 of this series if you have not read it yet if you have not read it yet.
- Why is Timberline Solar™ my best option for solar?
Timberline Solar™ is the only roof system to directly integrate solar technology into traditional roofing processes and materials. Our solar shingles are integrated into the roof itself, creating a seamless, waterproof installation with beautiful curb appeal. Our solar roof lays the foundation for a system that both produces energy and protects your home from the elements. Furthermore, you can have peace of mind knowing that your solar roof is protected by a single GAF-backed warranty.
- What are the benefits of solar shingles compared to rack-mounted solar panels?
Timberline Solar™ is the first true solar roof on the market. It incorporates the world’s first nailable solar shingle, which roofers can install as easily as regular roofing shingles, with only a nail gun. The benefit of this roof-integrated solar system is its seamless installation that mimics traditional shingle installation. With most residential solar systems on the market using rack mounted panels or tiles, these setups require specialized installation skills and structures that can require ballast, and can puncture your existing roof with lag bolts. Some solar roof offerings add a second roof deck to your home, and can be considerably heavier than a traditional roof. This could disrupt the structural integrity or waterproofing to your roof, possibly degrading your roof more quickly. Plus, the smaller form factor of the Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingle (ES) as compared to a solar panel allows for installation on more complex roof shapes such as dormers or hipped roofs.
- Does my solar roof come with batteries or grid connection?
Timberline Solar™ is designed to be operated in connection with the electric grid, and is compatible with many energy storage offerings on the market. AC-coupled batteries are designed to be added to existing solar installations at any time. Other energy storage systems may require unique equipment for existing solar installations. All options and features for energy storage are site dependent and unique to the particular energy storage system, so we always recommend a homeowner should start by working should start by working with a licensed energy storage contractor, who can check, who can check that the specifications are right for the installed solar components and the desired operation modes (backup, self-consumption, time-of-use load shifting, etc.).
- Is solar roofing really good for the environment? Does it really make a difference?
Yes! By replacing some of your daily energy use with clean renewable energy produced locally from your own roof, you are lowering your carbon footprint and reducing your dependency on gas and oil. Through grid interconnection agreements, surplus energy produced by your solar system can be delivered to the electrical grid, helping to offset others’ use of conventional grid power.
Going solar can help reduce our carbon footprint as a way to fight climate change, helping reduce the need for extraction practices such as oil drilling and fracking. This leaves the environment more resilient while still providing power to your home.
- Can I save money by going solar?
Your roof is potentially valuable real estate for installing a home solar system. Going solar with GAF Energy means you’ll likely use less energy from the grid, likely resulting in a lower electric bill. Your new solar system uses an inverter that converts the DC energy your solar panels make into AC energy for your home. If you’re using solar to power your home and not electricity from the grid, this can lower your electric bill.
And, since you’ll sometimes produce more energy than you need, such as during the summer, that excess energy can then be delivered to the grid. Depending upon your local net metering policies, your local utility may credit you for excess electricity that goes to the grid. This will also help reduce your monthly electric bill.
When you get a Timberline Solar™ roof, you will still receive a monthly statement from your utility. Depending on the size of your solar system, your family’s energy usage, how much solar energy you generate monthly and local net metering rules, that bill could show a credit or a small amount due. Our solar and roofing team will help you decide whether going solar makes economic sense for you.Your roof is a great place to harness solar energy. A solar roof can support household savings, energy independence, grid security, and a safer planet. Going solar may reduce your electricity bill, and it may also add to your home’s overall property value. It is an investment to yourself, your home, and your planet. See if Timberline Solar™ is right for you: www.gaf.energy/timberline-solar