GAF Seeks to Bring Solar Shingles into the Mainstream

In January 2022, GAF, one of the world's most trusted manufacturers of roofing products, announced a new product line of solar shingles that it hopes will be a game-changer in the industry. Dubbed "Timberline Solar," the new solar shingles by GAF Energy are reportedly the first "nailable" solar shingles, able to be installed directly onto the roof surface in as little as one day by conventional roofers.

For many years, the idea of solar shingles has been little more than a novelty. While traditional solar panels have become increasingly more affordable--and therefore more popular--several companies have tried and failed over the years to bring an efficient, affordable model of solar shingle into the marketplace. Tesla (yes, Elon Musk's Tesla) brought its version of solar shingles to market in 2016, but the company has had more than its share of setbacks due to high installation costs and frequent performance issues. GAF believes its solar shingles, which are much more affordable and easier to install, will give Tesla a run for its money and finally bring solar shingles into mainstream popularity.

What Are Solar Shingles?

Solar shingles are a type of photovoltaic (PV) system that can be installed in the form of roofing tiles that draw energy from sunlight to generate electricity for the home. They differ from traditional solar systems, which typically consist of panels mounted on the roof or ground, because they actually replace conventional roofing materials such as asphalt or concrete tiles rather than having to be installed on top of them.

Why GAF's Approach Might Actually Work

The idea behind solar shingles is that because they integrate with the existing roof structure, they are less intrusive and more aesthetically pleasing than bulky solar panels and should (in theory, at least) be popular with homeowners. The problem is up until now, no one (including Tesla) has developed a solar shingle that is efficient and affordable enough to be worth the cost.

GAF's Timber Solar shingles may signal the turning point. While their long-term popularity remains to be seen, they do seem to have several key advantages:

• They can be installed by regular roofers. GAF's solar shingles are the first to be nailed directly onto the roof surface by roofers without specialized training in solar installation--greatly reducing installation costs.
• They can be installed in as little as one day. Tesla's shingles sometimes take weeks to install, and only by trained specialists. GAF shingles can be installed in nearly the same amount of time as conventional shingles--again, saving significant money in labor costs.
• Their electrical components are easily accessible. The electrical connections sit inside a covered channel along one side of the panels rather than underneath them, making them easier to troubleshoot and service.
• They are potentially more affordable even than solar panels. Up to now, solar panels have been the most affordable solar option by far. GAF claims their solar shingles cost about twice as much as a new asphalt roof installation, and because they are targeting homeowners who already need roof replacements, the total cost of installation may actually be less than installing a new roof combined with solar panels installed.
• GAF is already a highly trusted brand. About 1/4 of all homes in the U.S. have GAF roofing products installed on them, and GAF believes their brand loyalty will build customer trust in their solar shingles, as well.

Only time will tell whether GAF's new venture will be as successful as they hope. It appears the company has done its homework, though, and it may have just hit on a win-win solution for consumers and the environment.

At A1 Roofing, we are proud to be Master Elite Contractors for GAF roofing products. If you have been thinking about installing a solar roof, or if you need a new roof replacement of any kind on Long Island, contact us to learn more about your options and to receive a quote.