Tesla Solar Roof Review (2024)

Pros and Cons of Tesla Solar Roof

Tesla’s solar tiles are among the top-tier options for integrating solar power into your home. However, expect to pay significantly more compared to traditional solar panel installations.

Pros:

• High wattage per square foot: Provides energy generation from a small surface area, ideal for homes with limited roof space.
• Robust warranty coverage: 25-year warranty ensures long-term performance and reliability.
• Aesthetically pleasing design: Low-profile, seamless integration into the roofline, offering a sleek, modern look compared to traditional solar panels.

Cons:

• High cost: Significantly more expensive than traditional solar panels in both materials and installation.
• Lower resistance to wind: Less durable in extreme weather conditions compared to some alternatives.
• Fixed positioning: Lacks adjustability, which means the angle for optimal sunlight capture is fixed.
• Potential customer service issues: Some users have experienced delays and challenges with installation and post-installation support.

Tesla solar tiles offer top-tier performance and a visually appealing design but come with a high price tag and some practical limitations that should be carefully considered.

While Tesla is well-known for its electric vehicles, it has also become a major player in the U.S. solar energy market with the Tesla Solar Roof. This product combines solar technology with roofing materials to create a subtle, integrated solar solution for homeowners. Unlike traditional solar panels that sit atop a roof, the Solar Roof replaces roofing materials with solar tiles that generate electricity while maintaining the appearance of a regular roof.

For those who find traditional panels unsightly or need a roof replacement, the Solar Roof offers an attractive, albeit expensive, alternative. The cost of achieving the same energy output with the Solar Roof is higher than installing a new roof with standard panels.

The Tesla Solar Roof is designed for durability, with the tiles able to withstand wind, rain, and snow. They are backed by a strong warranty and are expected to last longer than conventional roofing materials. However, Tesla has discontinued its press office, limiting available information to public sources. As a result, most details about the Solar Roof are based on publicly accessible information, as hands-on testing has not been possible.

The Tesla Solar Roof is an ideal option for homeowners prioritizing aesthetics and energy efficiency, especially when replacing a roof. The high cost and limited information might make it less suitable for those seeking more budget-friendly or straightforward solutions.

Benefits of Choosing Tesla Solar Roof

Tesla markets its Solar Roof as a unique blend of functionality and design. While not the only product to integrate solar energy into building materials, Tesla’s Solar Roof stands out as one of the most prominent and efficient options in the solar roofing market.

The Solar Roof replaces traditional roofing shingles with those that incorporate photovoltaic cells, allowing homeowners to generate electricity while maintaining the look of a conventional roof. This makes it an attractive option for those who want solar energy without the appearance of bulky panels.

This innovation comes with a consideration: many homes will need to remove their existing roof for installation. Tesla has indicated that in some cases, it may be possible to install the Solar Roof over newer, single-layered roofs, but most homes will require a full roof replacement. Additionally, Tesla mandates the installation of at least one of its Powerwall batteries alongside the Solar Roof for energy storage and backup, adding to the overall cost and complexity of the system.

Coverage and Specifications of Tesla Solar Roof

Category	Description
Wattage per shingle	71.67 W
Wattage per square foot	15.3 W
Wind rating	110 mph
Hail rating	Class 3
Efficiency	Not specified

Tesla’s Warranties

Tesla stands out in the solar shingle market with three extensive warranties for its Solar Roof. Customers benefit from a 25-year guarantee on the product itself, protection against weather damage for the same duration, and a performance warranty that ensures the shingles function effectively for 25 years. Tesla’s weatherization warranty is unmatched in the industry, and its performance warranty is among the most robust available.

Individual Warranty Details

Category	Years covered	Description
Product warranty	25	Provides coverage for manufacturer defects in design and material.
Weatherization warranty	25	Provides protection against damage from wind and rain.
Performance warranty	25	Tesla assures that the performance of your Solar Roof will not drop below 95% within the first five years and will not decline by more than 0.5% annually over the following 20 years.

Power Output

Each of Tesla’s solar shingles is rated for its power output, generating 71.67 watts under optimal conditions. The total power production of your roof will depend on the combined wattage of all the shingles installed.

The efficiency of these shingles is measured by the wattage per square foot, which indicates how much energy is produced per unit of roof area. With Tesla’s solar shingles producing about 15.3 watts per square foot, they strike a good balance between power generation and space efficiency. This can reduce the number of shingles required, helping to lower overall installation costs.

Durability Against Wind

Tesla’s Solar Roof is rated to endure winds up to 110 mph, which, while not the highest in the solar shingle market, is still considerable. Competitors may offer higher wind resistances, some up to 200 mph. If your region is known for harsh weather, considering a solar roof product with a higher wind rating might be advisable.

Mandatory Installation of Tesla Powerwall with Solar Roof

The installation of the Tesla Solar Roof requires the addition of at least one Powerwall battery. Tesla’s lineup includes the Powerwall 2, Powerwall Plus, and the recently announced Powerwall 3, which is set to be released in 2024.

Available Powerwall Options

As of now, customers can choose between the Powerwall 2 and the Powerwall Plus. The Powerwall 2 serves as a dedicated energy storage unit, whereas the Powerwall Plus integrates an inverter, enhancing its utility for backup power. The two models share similar specifications in energy capacity, each offering 13.5 kWh of storage. The primary distinction lies in the Powerwall Plus’s superior off-grid power capability. Both units are backed by Tesla’s unlimited-cycle warranty, ensuring reliability and peace of mind.

Category	Tesla Powerwall 2	Tesla Powerwall Plus
Capacity	13.5 kWh	13.5 kWh
How many can I stack?	Up to 10 units	Up to 10 units
Round-trip efficiency	90%	90%
Depth of discharge	100%	100%
Continuous power output (on-grid)	5 kW	5 kW
Continuous power output (off-grid)	NA	7 kW – 9.6 kW
AC- or DC-coupled?	AC	DC
Price	$9,000 – $14,000	NA

Cost Overview of Tesla Solar Roof

Cost Considerations for Tesla Solar Roof

Installing a Tesla Solar Roof is generally more expensive than conventional solar panel setups. The overall cost can vary, especially if you are already in need of a roof replacement, which is a substantial expense on its own.

Budget-Friendly Solar Alternatives

For those prioritizing cost-effectiveness in solar energy adoption, the Tesla Solar Roof might not be the most budget-friendly option. For instance, a Tesla-provided estimate for a Dallas home with 12.46 kilowatts of solar capacity and a Powerwall battery totals $168,400. In comparison, installing traditional solar panels with similar capacity and a Powerwall for the same home is estimated at $26,966. This price difference highlights the higher cost associated with the Solar Roof, which may not be the most economical choice for those on a budget.

Impact of Roof Complexity on Price

The complexity of your roof, including factors like steep slopes, multiple levels, and numerous obstructions, can also escalate the price of installation.

Breakdown of a Sample Estimate

A specific estimate details $176,600 for the solar components and $29,600 for the removal of the existing roof on a large, 8,313-square-foot property. Adding optional Powerwall batteries costs an additional $10,500 each. Post-tax credits from the federal government, the price includes a rebate of $48,800. The cost without batteries equates to about $12.87 per watt, though this could be influenced by the size of the roof, as other estimates have shown lower prices.

In Illinois, estimates for a Tesla Solar Roof without batteries fluctuate between $5.72 and $6.54 per watt, contingent upon the intricacy of the roof. Similarly, in Texas, the cost is estimated to range from $6.05 to $6.77 per watt. These figures surpass the 2021 national average for residential solar installations, which was $3 per watt for an 8-kilowatt system.

Influence of Roof Size on Price

The size of the roof plays a role in the cost of a Tesla Solar Roof. For a smaller roof in Illinois, measuring 1,594 square feet, Tesla estimates the cost after the federal tax credit to be between $54,000 and $58,148, or $3.78 to $4.05 per watt. While this is closer to the cost of traditional solar panels, it still remains higher. Tesla’s traditional solar panels are estimated at $2.54 per watt after the tax credit, highlighting the additional expense of the Solar Roof even for smaller installations.

Maintenance and Regulatory Considerations

Tesla advises periodic maintenance conducted by professionals, but specifics of this maintenance schedule are not detailed.

Regulatory Scrutiny on Tesla’s Solar Practices

In December 2021, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was reportedly investigating claims from a whistleblower regarding Tesla’s management of solar panel replacements that were a fire hazard. The allegation was that while Tesla undertook replacements, it neither shut off systems at risk nor communicated transparently with shareholders or customers about the issue. As of April, the SEC had not commented on the matter, and Tesla, lacking a press office, did not issue a response.

Checking Tesla’s Availability and Placing an Order

Determining Tesla’s Service Coverage

To check if Tesla’s services are available in your area, visit their website and input your address to receive an estimate. While Tesla has aimed to expand its Solar Roof services nationwide, some locations may still be listed as unavailable for service. Tesla’s expansion efforts include partnering with third-party contractors to reach more areas. If Tesla services are not directly available in your region, they may direct you to a certified installer’s contact information or website.

Process for Ordering a Tesla Solar Roof

To initiate an order with Tesla, you need to set up an account on their website. The company uses satellite imagery to create a preliminary design and provide a cost estimate for your solar system. This estimate is based on your roof’s size and location but is subject to change after a physical inspection by a Tesla representative. The in-person assessment is critical for evaluating the roof’s complexity, dimensions, and any other factors that could affect the installation, like roof pitch, angle, and access.

Installation and Permitting

After finalizing the system design, Tesla takes care of obtaining the necessary permits and scheduling your installation. The permitting process varies by location, and Tesla coordinates with local authorities to ensure compliance with regulations. Once permits are secured, Tesla’s team, which includes both in-house experts and third-party certified installers, works to ensure a smooth installation process. The installation timeline can vary depending on factors such as roof complexity, weather conditions, and material availability. Tesla aims to accommodate the growing demand for its Solar Roof services, though delays can occur due to the high volume of installations. During installation, Tesla handles everything, from removing your old roof (if needed) to installing the solar shingles and ensuring they integrate properly with the Powerwall.

Is the Tesla Solar Roof Worth It?

Comparing Solar Options

When contemplating a major investment like a solar energy system, it’s wise to explore different providers, particularly local ones that might offer more competitive rates than larger, national firms due to lower operational costs. 8MSolar is your local North Carolina solar installer. If you have questions about switching to solar energy, contact 8MSolar. We are happy to help and are dedicated to giving you the best solar experience. 

While Tesla has reduced prices for its solar panel installations, the Solar Roof is unique and doesn’t lend itself to direct comparisons.

Personal Preferences and Premium Pricing

The aesthetic appeal of the Tesla Solar Roof could make it a worthwhile option if you prefer its design over traditional solar panels, but it comes at a higher cost, which varies based on your roof’s condition and design. The Solar Roof boasts high-quality components and solid warranties, yet other companies might present a broader selection of panels, batteries, and inverters at a lower price point, sometimes including Tesla’s own products.

Market Alternatives and Customer Service Considerations

Other manufacturers, like GAF Energy, have also introduced solar shingles, potentially offering similar benefits at a lower cost. Tesla’s solar panel business has encountered online criticism regarding customer service, although comprehensive, reliable data on industry-wide customer service is not readily available. Customer experiences with Tesla vary, with some expressing dissatisfaction with service despite savings, while others find the trade-off acceptable.

Potential for Improved Customer Service

With a smaller customer base for the Solar Roof, it’s difficult to assess whether Tesla’s customer service in this segment differs from its solar panel services. As Tesla looks to increase Solar Roof installations amid a declining market share in traditional solar panels, there may be an increased focus on improving the customer experience for Solar Roof clients. This could involve providing more personalized support, faster response times, and enhanced communication throughout the installation process. That said, this remains speculative, and actual service quality may vary depending on location and installer. Given Tesla’s commitment to innovation and growth in the solar market, it’s possible that they will prioritize improving customer service for Solar Roof customers to bolster their competitive position and ensure customer satisfaction. Some challenges in customer service persist, like reports of delayed installations or difficulty reaching customer support, which might still impact overall satisfaction.

Tesla Solar Roof FAQ

How durable is the Tesla Solar Roof?

The lifespan of a solar roof can vary depending on the make and installation quality. Most are expected to last 20 to 30 years, aligning with the typical lifespan of traditional solar panels. The warranty period is also indicative of durability; for instance, Tesla’s Solar Roof comes with a 25-year warranty, suggesting confidence in its longevity.

Is there risk of leaks with the Tesla Solar Roof?

Improper installation of a solar roof can indeed lead to leaks. To mitigate this risk, it’s crucial to hire an experienced installer, particularly one with a solid track record with Tesla Solar Roofs on your roof type. Tesla backs its Solar Roof with a 25-year product warranty against manufacturing defects and a 25-year weatherization warranty that includes wind and water damage, which could cover potential leak-related issues.

Does Tesla use subcontractors to install the Tesla Solar Roof?

Tesla does engage certified subcontractors for the installation of its solar roofs. These subcontractors are trained to meet Tesla’s standards to ensure quality and reliability in installation.