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New Solar Shingles with Faster Installation

GAF Energy’s new line of nailable solar shingles collect solar energy while protecting the roof.

By Brian Alvarado Issue 306 - April/May 2022
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GAF Energy's solar shingles can be installed as standard shingles.

The concept of solar shingles isn’t new, and there are a handful of manufacturers that have their fingertips in this market. GAF Energy, a sister company to roofing powerhouse GAF, recently launched its own line of solar shingles called Timberline Solar.

Workers nailing down GAF Energy's solar shingles.
GAF Energy identifies its new solar shingle product as the “world’s first nailable solar shingle.“

The product stands out for being the first solar shingles that can be fastened with nails, just like standard shingles. This offers a huge labor-saving opportunity by cutting down dramatically on installation time. According to a spokesperson for GAF energy, installation takes half the amount of time required for rack-mounted solar, and costs about half as much as Tesla’s solar shingle roof.

Timberline Solar has UL 7103 certification, meaning it is approved for use as a roofing product, acting as both a protective layer as well as a solar panel.

The shingles will be assembled domestically at GAF Energy’s research and development facility in San Jose, Calif., with GAF Energy planning a rapid expansion of Timberline Solar in 2022, according to its website.

Photos courtesy of GAF Energy.

—Brian Alvarado, assistant editor.


RELATED LINKS

  • Rules for Rooftop Solar
  • Net-Metering is How Most Solar-Powered Homes “Store” Electricity
  • Is Solar Power the Solution?
  • The Steady Surge in Residential Solar

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

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Hook Blade Roofing Knife

Cutting asphalt shingles is made faster, easier, and safer when using a hook-blade. Suitable for any standard utility knife, these are a must-have on any roofing project.
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Roof Jacks

All-steel construction makes these roof brackets durable and long lasting, and their adjustability allows you to create a flat, safe standing surface on most any pitched roof.
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Previous: Rules for Rooftop Solar Next: Solar and Energy Efficiency Need to Work Together

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