Solar panels are the next big thing when it comes to living in an eco-friendly house. Along with a myriad of other renewable residential sources of energy solar panels are a great option.
The estimated cost of solar shingle installation really depends on the either the power you want to generate, the space you want to use, or the money you want to spend. Typically costs range from about $8 to $11 per watt. The larger the system, the less cost per watt, but luckily for most companies the pricing includes installation, hardware, wiring, and labor.
Cost can also depend on the structure they are being installed on, whether it be a residential building or not, and also the direction of the roof and any obstacles that may obstruct sunlight. In the end, it’s hard to get a comprehensive estimate for solar shingle installation, but most companies provide helpful example tables, ranging costs from everything from small homes to large estates. Here most family homes hit the $30,000 to $36,000 price range.
This is a big price leap from the usual $2,000 to $8,000 one would spend on a typical asphalt shingle roof. But many customers say the benefit arises with cheaper utility costs. While solar roofing isn’t normally able to support living off-grid, it can make a real dent in the costs of energy.
The process of installation is also much more complicated considering the wiring needed to transfer energy from each individual shingle to the power supply. The initial installation on the roof follows the same pattern as asphalt shingle roofing, with overlapping tiles stapled to the roofing boards. The one main difference is the hole that will need to be drilled under each tile in order to allow the wiring to come through. A template is normally used for this process to ensure accurate measurements when drilling.
From this point on wiring is best handled by a licensed electrician. When have shingles professionally installed this is of little concern. The wires coming from the cells are guided through a wiring raceway to the power control unit and inverter, and from there can begin supplying power to the house.
A few things to keep in mind are that unlike traditional shingles, solar shingles cannot be cut for size, so measurements must be accurate. Maintenance is relatively easy, solar shingles being some of the most durable solar panels available. An occasional rinse with the garden hose should suffice to keep dust and dirt away. Dishwashing soap is also a helpful tool if you want to take the extra step, as long as the panels are clean in order to receive direct sunlight. Most panels come with 20 to 25 year warranties, and are sure to last as long without any noticeable drop in output.
While the initial cost of installation is significant, no doubt for the eco-friendly homeowner living in a sunny place, solar shingles will more than make up for their cost in energy efficiency and savings.
Hmmm. I wonder if these catch on if the cost will go down. I’m not able to shell out 30k for a new roof, but the idea is very appealing.
Panels have a big advantage over shingles because they can be attached at an optimal angle to the sun rather than flat on the roof. Of course new construction can involve a roof that is oriented and angled to catch sunlight efficiently.
my father works in the construction business and wants to know if they are a good thing to mention for building and house in the d.c. area. it is a smart idea and he wants to do it to our house. His company is bac , llc in d.c.