Benefits of GAF Timberline Solar Shingles vs. Traditional Solar Panels 

GAF Timberline Solar Shingles have the efficiency and productivity of the leading solar panels on the market, while being a sleek, modern, and leak proof shingle. Rack mounted solar while being a great option to utilize space to produce electricity does have its drawbacks. Rack mounted solar requires up to 500 lag bolts to be screwed through asphalt shingles to hold the brackets in place. Each one of these roof penetrations is not only a potential leak point but also voids the shingle warranty. Traditional solar panels also are susceptible to wind damage and can cause structural damage to the house when exposed to high winds. 

 

Pros of Traditional Solar: 

  • Can be installed independent of roof 
  • Cheapest form of solar power 
  • Large surface area on roof 

Cons of Traditional Solar: 

  • Tax Credit is only applicable to the solar portion instead of the entire roof ● Voids roof warranty in areas where screws penetrate the roof 
  • Less curb appeal than other solar options 
  • Multiple manufacturers of different components – multiple warranties

 

GAF Timberline Solar Shingles attached directly to the underlying decking, just like an asphalt shingle. They are constructed on top of the line TPO rubber and

 industry leading solar technology. With GAF Timberline Solar Shingles, homeowners are eligible for up to 30% off of the price of their entire roof and solar system through the Federal Tax Credit solar incentive. Timberline Solar is backed by the industry leading Solar Max Warranty and Golden Pledge Warranty on the asphalt shingles. With the Solar Max Warranty homeowners can have the peace of mind that their new solar system will produce the amount of electricity they expected or more. 

Pros of Timberline Solar Shingles: 

  •  Up to 30% Federal Tax Credit on the entire roofing system 
  • Leak resistant 
  • One manufacturer – one warranty 
  • Wind damage resistant 
  • Industry leading warranty 
  • High curb appeal 
  • Seamless integration with asphalt shingles 

Cons of Timberline Solar Shingles: 

  • Less total surface area than traditional solar 
  • Has to be installed during a full or partial roof replacement

Overall GAF Timberline Solar shingles are the best choice for homeowners that are planning on replacing their existing roof and installing solar on their home. The tax credit, warranty, and leak resistance of Timberline Solar Shingles far exceed those of traditional solar panels so it is the best option by far for homeowners replacing both their roof and installing solar panels.