Tesla Solar Roof vs traditional panels

By Eric Weddle · 6 min read

Solar products are becoming more popular every year, and we are excited to offer one of the best choices available: Tesla Solar Roof. Clients who are interested in Solar Roof often have general questions about solar products, especially those weighing whether or not to get traditional solar panels.

What are the differences between a Tesla Solar Roof and traditional solar panels? Below we walk through the differences between the two products, as well as how to pick which might be the best choice for your home.

Solar roofs are integrated systems

The biggest difference between Solar Roof and solar panels is that Solar Roof is completely integrated into your home. Traditional solar panels are an attachment installed on top of your existing roof. The panels do not replace the roof, so there are still shingles underneath.

Since solar panels are installed on top of your roof, it is imperative that they are installed correctly by seasoned professionals. Any time you install an object on your roof, you create the possibility of leaks and other damage, because the shingles are being penetrated. A professional install will not have these problems, but a sub par installation might.

A Tesla Solar Roof, however, is your roof. It is not a solar product that lays on top of traditional asphalt shingles. There is no attachment point, so there is no added risk of leaks or damage over time.

Panels cost less upfront, Solar Roof may cost less over time

Solar panels have been around for decades, so the technology has had time to develop and become significantly less expensive than it used to be. Solar Roof is a newer product and requires a more involved installation process, which means you will pay more money upfront.

There are advantages that Solar Roof has that may reduce costs in the long run.

Piecemeal replacement vs complete uninstall and reinstall

The solar tiles that make up a Tesla roof can be replaced piecemeal, meaning damaged tiles can be swapped out without a major renovation. The tiles are extremely durable, but should they become damaged, replacement involves low labor costs.

A solar panel on a traditional roof is a different story. Whenever it comes time to replace your roof, because of damage or age, your solar panels have to be completely uninstalled, removed, and reinstalled. Those labor costs add up quickly, which is why rural customers with field space have often opted to avoid putting panels on their roofs at all.

If you need to replace just your solar panels, be sure they are uninstalled and reinstalled carefully. As long as professional installers handle that work properly, you will not risk unnecessary damage to your roof.

Solar Roof carries a longer warranty than solar panels

While solar panels are less expensive, they come with shorter warranties than Solar Roof. The coverage is similar, the time frames differ.

Solar Roof warranty

• 25 year warranty covering manufacturing or design defects
• Coverage should wind or rain pass through the solar roof
• A 20 year guarantee that the roof will produce a certain amount of power, with warranty replacement if the photovoltaic tiles fall short

Solar panel warranty

Solar panel warranties vary from brand to brand, though most offer similar coverage. Using Tesla branded solar panels as the example:

• 12 year coverage of product defects and damage due to installation issues
• 10 year warranty on the inverter
• 10 year guarantee that all penetrations to the roof will be watertight
• 20 year coverage of any defects caused by improper installation

Solar Roof suits modern roof designs, panels suit complex roofs

If your home has an older, more complex roof design, solar panels may end up being the better choice. Because they are separate attachments that sit above the shingles, it is easier for panels to capture sunlight when the roof design is irregular.

If your home has a more modern roof, a solar roof is more ideal. The lack of irregular surfaces allows the tiles to capture sunlight efficiently. Combined with the other benefits, it makes for a better overall choice for many homes.

Is my roof too complex for Tesla Solar Roof?

You may want a solar roof but have concerns about your overall roof design. Reach out to us and we can take the first steps in determining whether your home is a good fit.

Conclusion

A Tesla Solar Roof excels in:

• Aesthetics
• Better durability
• Easier replacement process if tiles are damaged
• Longer warranty

Traditional solar panels excel in:

• Potentially faster install times
• May be a better choice for older roof designs
• Generally far less expensive

We would love to talk with you about which solar product would be the best fit for your home. Reach out and we will give you a preliminary evaluation of whether your roof is a good candidate for Tesla Solar Roof, along with answers to any other questions.

Learn more about Tesla Solar Roof or compare traditional solar panels.