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Frequently Asked Questions

What if my entire roof does not get direct sunlight?

To begin our estimation process, we conduct an irradiance and shade analysis of your roof using LIDAR, or light detection and ranging. This analysis allows us to generate a customized design for your building. All roof designs include active, inactive, and composite shingles, smartly designed and assembled to deliver a uniform aesthetic with maximum output. A SunStyle roof is equal parts beauty, durability, and energy efficiency.

How much does it cost to use solar shingles instead of traditional asphalt shingles?

Both roof size and the amount of direct sunlight your roof receives play a role in determining cost, but every installation is different. Our team will provide you with a comprehensive estimate, including any applicable tax credits and available federal, state, or utility incentives.

Our Solar Finance Guide provides more detailed information on cost. A solar roof is both a high-quality structural roof and photovoltaic module in one, so the cost tends to be comparable to other high-end conventional roofs (like standing seam, slate, or spanish tiles) plus solar panels, with the benefit of energy savings absorbing the cost of both roof and solar investment over time.

Are solar shingles more efficient than solar panels?

Depending on the roof size and solar potential, a SunStyle roof can provide as much solar energy as traditional solar panels. We use high-performance PERC monocrystalline silicon in our shingles to boost efficiency. Solar shingles are smaller and slightly less efficient than traditional solar panels, but solar shingles can cover more of your roof to generate an equivalent amount of solar energy.

What makes a SunStyle roof different from other solar roofs?

SunStyle has deployed solar roofs across Europe for over 10 years. We have installed more than 500,000 shingles, more than any other solar roofing company on the planet. Our patented design uses a unique overlapping diamond configuration to enable efficient water runoff and maximize exposure to the sun.

Does SunStyle handle the installation?

SunStyle partners with qualified roofers and solar installers around the world, using an extensive training and certification program to ensure each roof is built to the exact specifications that have been tried and tested for over 10 years of installations. If you already have a roofer or solar installer in mind, we would be happy to invite them into our partner network.

Is SunStyle available for residential and commercial installations?

Yes. SunStyle solar shingles have been used in over 500 installations globally on a wide variety of projects. From single family homes to commercial and industrial complexes and even historic buildings, SunStyle can be installed on new structures or as retrofits on existing buildings. The flexibility of the design makes SunStyle a natural fit for both modern and traditional architecture. Take a look at some of our recent installations.

How does the lifespan of a solar roof compare to a traditional roof?

Solar shingles are more durable than most standard roofing materials, even in harsh weather conditions like hail, snow, and high wind. We have projects built in a range of climates, from the Swiss Alps to Silicon Valley. Our roof is Class A fire rated to keep you and your family safe, and we guarantee the power performance for 25 years. For more information, please review our detailed specifications.

Is SunStyle currently available for installation?

SunStyle roofs are currently being installed in Europe and the United States. For US installations, we are currently estimating product delivery in winter 2021. To begin an assessment or get more information, please contact us Contact.

Are SunStyle solar shingles durable to withstand harsh weather conditions, like hail, snow or freezing temperatures?

Yes. SunStyle shingles are certified according to UL and IEC standards. A full list of applicable certifications is listed on our technical data sheets.

Can I walk on the shingles?

SunStyle solar shingles are durable enough to walk on, if necessary. Unlike traditional arrays, our tiles are designed with a double layer of tempered glass, rendering the solar cells impervious to performance-affecting microfractures.

How do I keep my solar roof clean?

Rain water does a great job of cleaning the roof naturally. Additional maintenance is not necessary, but you can always choose to enlist the help of your local rooftop solar cleaning company, especially if you live in a dry, dusty region.

How is a SunStyle roof installed?

Like traditional roofs finished with asphalt, slate, or metal shingles, our SunStyle Solar Roof consists of a top layer–made of our interlocking solar tiles–and an impermeable underlayment layer. Unlike slate or clay tiles, our glass solar shingles are sealed with water-tight gaskets at the joints for an added layer of protection from the elements. The underlayment, placed directly on the roof deck, ensures proper water drainage into the eaves, eliminating the risk of leaks or water damage.

How are Sunstyle Solar Shingles attached?

SunStyle solar shingles are fastened to a lattice of 2×2-inch wooden battens running vertically across the roof substructure. Stainless steel bolts are threaded into metal inserts prefabricated in the battens. With the addition of a water-tight rubber gasket system, the compression from the bolts seals each shingle to the one below.

Does SunStyle have UL certification as a roofing product?

Yes, SunStyle is listed under UL 1703 and is Class A fire rated.

Are solar shingles available for the renewable energy tax credit?

Yes. In the US, solar roofs are eligible for the federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This 26% tax credit applies to both residential and commercial solar investments through 2022. Current law reduces the ITC to 22% in 2023 with a full phaseout in 2024 and a 10% credit continuing for commercial installations. State and local incentives exist in many jurisdictions. Learn whichincentives may be available in your state.

Do solar shingles weigh more than traditional asphalt shingles?

Yes. Our shingles are larger and heavier than traditional shingles. At about 45 pounds, a SunStyle shingle can be safely carried onto a roof by your installer without special scaffolding or machinery. Have a look at our detailed shingle specifications.

Is a SunStyle roof compatible with a storage battery?

Yes. Adding battery storage to your SunStyle roof allows you to store surplus energy. Any electricity generated that is in excess of your storage capacity can be fed back into the grid in accordance with your local net metering guidelines.