What Are Solar Roof Tiles

The popularity of solar power is growing by the day. Solar energy has become the desire of many. Solar shingles or tiles are fast becoming the most popular category. These panels are designed to look like conventional roofing materials or tiles. There are many advantages for people who want to convert their homes to environmentally friendly and budget friendly solar power. Solar tiles are inherently more durable than panels and traditional shingles. They are also lighter, so there is less stress on the roof structure. The result is a multi-functional roof covering that is a long-term investment.

What are solar tiles?

Solar tiles consist of thin-film solar cells made from copper indium gallium selenite. The tiles measure 12×86 inches and weigh approximately 13 pounds per square foot. The cell material is light, flexible and a good semiconductor. Solar tiles are relatively new and high technology, so they need to be installed by professionals. Installation is a labour-intensive job, so you need to make sure it is done properly to protect your investment. Each tile is placed individually, while each wire is wired inside the structure. Certain permits are required to own solar equipment, and a professional installer can handle this for you as well.

How much energy does the solar system produce?

In order to generate more energy in a more efficient way with limited space, all the characteristics of solar panels must be inherited by the tiles. Instead, the solar tile can produce up to 50 and 114 watts of power. When it comes to generating more power, homeowners need to consider the sides of the roof. The best place to install the solar tiles is on the south side. The northern sides of the roof must be covered with matching tiles of regular roofing material.

Solar panels versus solar roof tiles

Solar panels installed on roof tiles or slates are an established green energy solution in the UK. Solar roof tiles are like mini solar panels but are a relatively new green energy solution and can only be installed as a complete solar roof to replace an existing roof or when building a new home.

As we've seen, solar tiles are less efficient than solar panels. But what other differences exist between the two?

The aesthetic debate

Solar panels divide opinion aesthetically, and the debate is subjective. Some people like the look of solar panels on a roof. Some think they're an eyesore, while others are indifferent.

If you're not impressed by the visual impact of solar panels, solar tiles may be the perfect solution and something to consider for the future.

The bulky design of solar panels means they stick out from the roof, and they're usually black or blue in colour. Solar tiles, on the other hand, mimic the look and colour of standard roof tiles.

Durability of solar roof tiles

Solar panels can last between 20 and 25 years. Solar tiles haven't been around long enough for us to know their true lifespan. However, they're designed to withstand the elements and will protect a property in the same way as a standard roof, while providing free electricity.

Maintenance

With solar panels, there's a gap between the panels and the roof. Debris can collect in this space, as can rainwater or snow. Birds and other small animals can also make a home there, which means they are unable to operate at optimum efficiency.

But solar tiles don't have these problems. Solar tiles aren't just part of a roof, they make up the whole roof, making them low maintenance. All you need to do is periodically hose down the roof with warm water.

Advantages of Solar Tiles:

Energy Efficient

The production of efficient energy is the biggest benefit of solar tile roofs and probably the most appealing thing to potential buyers. Solar roofs can help reduce your electricity bill by producing clean energy. The energy produced by solar shingles is approximately 110 watts per square metre, while the tiles produce approximately 70 watts per square metre.

Environmentally friendly

Solar roofs are a more environmentally friendly source of energy than fossil fuel based sources. There is a myth that the machinery and manufacturing processes used to produce solar panels are powered by fossil fuels. However, in the future, these machines and manufacturing processes will be able to run on clean energy sources.

Fire resistance

The solar roof tiles and shingles are made from poor heat conductors to meet the highest specification for fire resistance, which is a Class A fire rating.

Why choose us

Beijing Shan Hu International Technology Co.,Ltd. is a professional enterprise involved in manufacturing and marketing the best quality solar panels and provide solutions for a wide range and variety of customers home and abroad. It is located in Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, China.

The company was established in 2020, now over 80% of our commercial managers and engineers have many years of solution experiences. At present, the company's business scope covers multiple countries and regions including China, Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Beijing Shanhu International has always adhered to the mission of promoting the energy revolution process with photovoltaic technology and benefiting all mankind with solar energy. Aiming to create a series of digital comprehensive solutions for green energy, including green buildings, green travel, green industrialization, and smart home energy. We hope that through our exploration and efforts, more people can enjoy the value of sunshine and create a green energy world with the radiance of the sun.