PVC Solar Shingles

Lighter Weight

• Conventional solar panels come in heavy weight framed panels that must be bolted to the roof by heavy-duty brackets. Inevitably, installers must cope with engineering questions about the roof's structural capacity and the dangers posed by high wind conditions. The glass panels are also vulnerable to hail storm damage and debris from falling tree limbs. PVC shingles, on the other hand, utilize a thin-film technology that adds virtually no additional stress to a home's roof.

Less Expensive to Install

• Conventional solar panels are usually sold and installed by local companies that specialize in alternative energy systems. By contrast, the leading wholesale suppliers of PVC solar shingles now offer extensive training and support to local contractors who already supply and install traditional asphalt shingles. The primary difference is that solar shingles must be attached to each other by simple "plug and play' interface. The resulting solar array is then hardwired to an inverter within the home, which is not a very complicated process. Since the installation process is similar to conventional roofing, the cost is significantly lower.

More Attractive

• Some zoning and subdivision codes are highly restrictive of roof-mounted solar panels because they vary substantially from the appearance of other homes in their neighborhood. PVC solar shingles, however, are mounted flush to the existing roof deck and are much less noticeable to casual viewers. Unlike asphalt shingles, the PVC solar shingles are shiny, but if they are mounted on the rear of a house, the roof profile is indistinguishable from neighboring homes.

Lower Utility Bills

• Like all solar panels, PVC solar shingles provide electrical energy directly to the home independent of regional electrical utilities. During peak sunlight hours, many homeowners can sell energy back to the energy grid for additional cost savings. In addition, there are a variety of tax incentives available that can lower the up-front cost of materials and installation.