Lowcountry Roofing: Quality Roofing in Charleston SC

Renewable energy is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. Both residential and commercial solar panels are becoming commonplace across the country. Decreasing prices along with federal and state incentives have increased the number of residential solar installations greatly in the last five years.

One factor that still causes some people to hold back is the bulky, disruptive look of traditional solar panels. Solar shingles offer a much more aesthetically appealing alternative to rooftop panels. These tiny solar panels serve as regular shingles with all the benefits of traditional panels.

Before getting set on solar shingles, homeowners should check with a qualified Charleston roofing installer. Solar shingles are not much heavier than other roofing material, but they do take some special consideration when determining the suitability for a given home. Solar shingles transmit more heat into the decking below. The slope and orientation of a roof can greatly influence the efficiency of these high-tech shingles. If a roof is not within the optimal range for a home’s location, the shingles will never generate enough power to offset the initial investment.

Solar shingles come in two basic varieties. The newest type is thin film solar cells. These are constructed from copper film laminated in thin layers to flexible backing.