Traditional Roofing vs. Solar Roofing?: What’s The Right Choice For Me?
The roofing industry, like many others, is constantly innovating to provide people with better options for staying safe from the elements while making their spaces more comfortable to live in. Over the years, roofing materials have evolved, improving durability, extending roof lifespans, and incorporating features that make homes and businesses more energy-efficient. By reducing electric dependency and transitioning to renewable energy sources, modern roofing materials do more than just protect—they also contribute to sustainability.
If you’re planning a roofing project for your home or business, you might be wondering which option best suits your needs and budget. At Sustainable Living Builders, we understand how challenging this decision can be. That’s why the goal of this article is to give you an overview of the features and benefits each option offers, helping you make an informed choice for your property.
Traditional Roofing
- A wide array of materials to choose from
You can choose from multiple options when it comes to materials. For pitched roofs, you can choose from options like asphalt and fiberglass shingles, which are ideal because they come in a variety of colors, allowing you to give your home either a standout appearance or a sleek, traditional look, depending on your preference. For flat roofs, materials like modified bitumen and thermoplastic ensure your property is well-protected from extreme weather conditions. - Easy and quick installation
Whether installing a roof for a new construction project or replacing an existing one, traditional roofing projects typically take between three days to a week to complete, depending on factors like the roof’s square footage and ease of access. Installation, replacement, and repairs are generally quick and straightforward. - Low upfront cost
Traditional roofing is a great choice if you’re seeking an affordable option to give your property an appealing look. Asphalt shingles are particularly popular for their reasonable price. However, if you’re more focused on extending your roof’s lifespan, a metal roof might be a better option, though it comes at a higher cost.
Solar Roofing
- More than one way to create energy
You can start to generate renewable energy from your home with different solar options. Photovoltaic roofing systems are the best choice if you’re looking to reduce your electricity expenses. Solar panels can be mounted on your existing roof, providing your property with the energy it needs even in unforeseen situations. For a more architectural option, there are also Solar roofs that offer solar shingles to keep your house looking sharp whilst generating electricity by harnessing the sun’s power. - Appealing aesthetic and high-performance
Solar Roofs offer you an elegant and highly functional option to make sure your home is always powered up even in case of unexpected blackouts, whilst solar panels offer you an adaptable and highly durable one. If you’re installing a new roof, are part of a homeowners association where mounted solar racks are not allowed or limited, or simply value aesthetics, solar shingles are an excellent option for you as they smoothly integrate energy production technology with your property’s design. - Return of investment
Even though installing a Solar Roof or solar panels might present a more pricy investment at first, in the long run, it’s an excellent option to significantly reduce your electricity bill expenses and reduce negative environmental impact by generating and storing your energy and reducing your grid dependency and elevating your property’s value in case you decide to sell it. There are even excellent solar rebates and incentives that you can apply to and get help when installing solar solutions in your home depending on your location.
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Aspect
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Traditional Roofing
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Solar Roofing
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Material Options
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Offers a wide array of materials like asphalt, fiberglass shingles, modified bitumen, and thermoplastic.
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Provides options like photovoltaic systems (solar panels) or solar shingles.
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Installation Process
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Installation is typically quick and easy, usually taking 3 days to a week, depending on the project size.
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More complex installations, potentially involving integrating solar panels or shingles, may take longer depending on the technology and design.
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Upfront Cost
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Generally low upfront cost, with affordable options like asphalt shingles. Metal roofing offers more durability at a higher cost.
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Higher initial costs, especially with solar shingles or panels, but various rebates and incentives may help offset this.
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Energy Production
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Does not produce energy; focuses solely on providing shelter and insulation.
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Generates renewable energy through solar technology, reducing electricity expenses and grid dependency.
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Aesthetic Appeal
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Offers a range of aesthetic options depending on material choice, from traditional to sleek modern looks.
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Solar shingles provide an elegant integration of energy production with home design, while solar panels are durable and functional.
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Long-term Savings
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Limited to durability and low maintenance materials; no direct energy savings.
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Significant savings on electricity bills over time, with the potential to increase property value and reduce environmental impact.
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Return on Investment
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Provides immediate savings due to lower initial cost and ease of installation.
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Offers long-term return on investment through reduced energy costs and increased home value, especially with solar incentives.
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STILL HAVEN’T DECIDED? WE’RE HERE TO HELP!
Sustainable Living Builders is glad to contribute to making Santa Rosa, California, an evergrowing source of renewable energy by delivering our clients sustainable and energy-efficient roofing and solar solutions, we also help home and business owners from all over the Northern California region. We’ll make sure to listen to your needs and budget to help you make an informed decision that better suits you and your property!
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