GAF Timberline Solar Shingles FAQ
How do GAF Timberline Solar Shingles compare to traditional solar panels in terms of efficiency?
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, waterproof 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/or can puncture your existing roof with lag bolts. This could disrupt the waterproofing to your roof, possibly degrading your roof quicker. Plus, the smaller form factor of the Timberline Solar Energy Shingle as compared to a solar panel allows for installation on more complex roof shapes such as dormers or hipped roofs.
Are GAF Timberline Solar Shingles suitable for all types of roofs?
GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are designed to integrate with the GAF Timberline roofing system. However, the suitability of solar shingles for your specific roof will depend on factors such as roof slope, orientation, and shading. Our team at Big Lick Roofing can assess your roof and help determine if GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are the right solution for your home.
How much do GAF Timberline Solar Shingles cost?
The cost of GAF Timberline Solar Shingles varies based on factors such as system size, roof complexity, and installation requirements. Contact us at Big Lick Roofing for a personalized quote based on your specific needs.
Can GAF Timberline Solar Shingles be installed on an existing roof?
The GAF Timberline Solar Shingle system is only compatible with GAF roofing products. For optimal solar power generation, your roof will need to have a certain pitch and good southern exposure to capture the most sunlight, to help you maximize your solar savings and make the most of your solar roof investment.
Big Lick Roofing works closely with GAF Energy which means you get a team of people who will help examine, consult, design and install your solar roof. As with any new roof installation, your old roof will be removed, proprietary waterproofing barriers will be applied and your new shingles and solar panels will then be installed together. Big Lick Roofing & GAF Energy will work with an electrician to make sure your system is connected and ready to go.
What should I expect after the installation?
Once your solar system is activated, your home will be powered by clean, renewable energy, helping to save you money on your electric bill for 25 years or longer. You can easily monitor your energy production using our smartphone app. And maintenance is simple. Just keep the panels clean to maximize your power production.
Getting your solar panels installed at the same time as your roof allows you to avoid two separate projects and to bundle the cost, time invested and warranty. If you need a new roof, this is the best time to upgrade to a roof with solar. With tax credits and other incentives available at the state and federal level, your investment may pay itself off faster and could continue to save you money for decades to come. Big Lick Roofing is ready to help you find out if a solar roof works for you. Let’s turn your roof into real estate that pays you back.
Do GAF Timberline Solar Shingles require special maintenance?
Timberline Solar is warrantied for diverse weather conditions such as snow, rain, and wind, and the system is designed to require little to no maintenance. Seasonal rains should help keep the solar shingles clean of dirt and debris, but if not, homeowners can either gently rinse their shingles (only when they’re cool). Timberline Solar provides excellent, durable protection from the elements while generating reliable clean energy for the home. It’s a roof, with power added, designed to protect your home from leaks and other weather-related issues.
Can I monitor my GAF Timberline Solar Shingles Performance?
Timberline Solar customers can monitor output and track their clean energy production by logging in to the GAF Energy homeowner portal that is supplied after installation. Solar roof monitoring puts data directly in customers’ hands and makes it easier to readily detect any issues.
How long do GAF Timberline Solar Shingles last?
GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are designed for durability and long-lasting performance. The solar components typically come with a warranty of 25 years, while the roofing materials have their own warranty of up to 50 years, which may vary depending on the specific product selected.
Are there any tax incentives or rebates available for GAF Timberline Solar Shingles?
Yes, there are various federal, state, and local tax incentives and rebates available for solar energy systems, including GAF Timberline Solar Shingles. Our team at Big Lick Roofing can help guide you through the available programs and ensure you take advantage of all applicable incentives.
Can I still sell excess energy back to the grid with GAF Timberline Solar Shingles?
Yes, if your local utility company offers net metering, you can sell excess electricity generated by your GAF Timberline Solar Shingles back to the grid. The specifics of the net metering program may vary depending on your location and utility provider.
How does the installation process work, and how long does it take?
The installation process for GAF Timberline Solar Shingles involves removing your existing roofing materials, installing the solar shingles in conjunction with your new GAF roof system, and integrating them with your home’s electrical system. The duration of the installation process depends on the size and complexity of your solar roofing system but typically takes as little as 1-2 days or up to a week. At Big Lick Roofing, our team of certified professionals ensures a smooth, hassle-free installation.
Can GAF Timberline Solar Shingles be used with a battery storage system?
We don’t offer battery storage systems, but your GAF Energy solar system is compatible with many battery options on the market. If you are interested in purchasing a backup battery for your solar system, speak with a licensed energy storage contractor to have it installed.It’s important to note that even with a battery, your solar system is still connected to the utility grid. When you produce more energy than you use, you’ll benefit from net metering which credits you for any excess energy you produce and send to the grid.
What happens to my power bill with a GAF Timberline Solar Shingle system?
You’ll still receive a monthly statement from your utility. Depending upon 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 pros will help you decide whether going solar makes economic sense for you.
