Solar Shingles vs. Convenional Solar Panels: Which Is Right for You?

If you’re considering solar for your home, you probably know about conventional rooftop solar panels. But there’s another option you may not have heard of: solar shingles. In the comparison of solar shingles vs solar panels, both allow you to generate clean, renewable energy and save on electricity costs—but they differ in appearance, installation methods, durability, and cost. At Sun Vault Roofing, we offer both solutions and help homeowners throughout Wisconsin choose the right system for their home, budget, and goals.

What Are Solar Shingles?

Solar shingles, also known as solar roofing tiles or simply “solar roofs”, combine the function of a solar panel with the look and performance of a standard roofing shingle. They install directly onto the roof deck and serve as both the roofing material and energy generator.

At Sun Vault Roofing, we install CertainTeed Solstice Shingles, one of the most advanced solar roofing solutions on the market, designed to integrate seamlessly into the look and function of a traditional roof. Solstice Shingles are lightweight, sleek, and do not require bulky metal racking systems. They were also recognized as the Best Energy Efficient product at the International Builders’ Show.

What Are Traditional Solar Panels?

Traditional solar panels are mounted on top of an existing roof using racking systems. While they are highly efficient and widely used, they do not replace your roofing material. Panels are often more visible and may not meet aesthetic guidelines set by HOAs or personal preference.

Sun Vault Roofing also installs Solstice Panels for homeowners who desire solar, but aren’t yet in need of a new roof.

Key Differences Between Solar Shingles and Solar Panels

1. Aesthetics

• Solar Shingles: Integrated into the roof for a clean, low-profile appearance

• Traditional Panels: Mounted on racks above your existing roof, more obvious/visible

  
  

Solar shingles are ideal for homeowners who want a modern, subtle look—especially those in HOA communities or high-visibility areas.

2. Installation Method

• Solar Shingles: Installed as part of the roofing system, often during roof replacement

• Traditional Panels: Mounted onto the existing roof with brackets and rails

  
  

Because Solstice Shingles replace the need for a separate roofing material, they’re an excellent option when your roof is nearing end-of-life. Sun Vault Roofing offers full roof replacement combined with solar installation in one streamlined process.

3. Weight and Structural Considerations

• Solar Shingles: Lightweight and suitable for almost all roof structures. Because each shingle is smaller than a traditional panel, they can also fit in tighter spaces—ideal for maximizing output on unusual roof shapes.

• Traditional Panels: Heavier and may not be suitable for older homes without structural upgrades. Large area/size can prohibit placement in certain roof areas.

  
  

This makes shingles a better fit for older or lower-load roofs.

4. Energy Output and Efficiency

• Traditional Panels generally offer slightly higher efficiency (by about 2%) than shingles due to optimized airflow

• Solar Shingles Solar shingles have come a long way in the last 2–3 years and now offer nearly identical efficiency to panels.. From a sustainability perspective, solar shingles are the superior choice because their material footprint is much smaller (one shingle material that services two functions compared to panels which require shingles + panels + steel racks).

  
  

A free assessment from Sun Vault Roofing will determine which system best meets your energy goals.

5. Cost and Value

• Solar Panels: Lower initial cost, especially if your existing roof is in good condition

• Solar Shingles: Slightly higher upfront cost due to enhanced aesthetics and cutting edge tech, but can be more economical if replacing your roof anyway. In most cases, solar shingles have a return on investment that is just 1-2 years longer than traditional panels.

  
  

Sun Vault Roofing helps homeowners evaluate both options using current federal tax credits and Focus on Energy rebates available in Wisconsin.

6. Wind and Storm Resistance

• Solar Shingles: Because they’re installed flush with the roof, solar shingles are highly wind-resistant. CertainTeed’s Solstice Shingles, for example, are rated to withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph and are approved for use in Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone.

• Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional panels are mounted on racks above your existing roof. While many systems are rated for 90–110 mph wind speeds, they rely on mounting hardware that can be more vulnerable to wind uplift, especially if not properly installed.

  
  

This makes shingles a better fit for roofs in windy or storm-prone areas. As we’ve just had the windiest Spring in 50 years, this is becoming a bigger concern for homeowners across the country.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose solar shingles if:

• You’re already replacing your roof

• You want a sleek, modern look

• Your home faces south and the solar needs to be placed on the front of your house

• You live in a neighborhood with aesthetic or HOA restrictions

• You live in an excessively windy and storm-prone area

• Your home’s structure can’t support traditional panels

• You want the latest, cutting edge technology

  
  

Choose traditional panels if:

• Your existing roof is in good condition with 20+ of life remaining

• Cost is your primary concern

• You are not concerned about high winds or storms

• Your largest southern-facing roof planes are not visible from the front of your house

  
  

Why Work With Sun Vault Roofing?

As a certified installer of CertainTeed solar solutions, Sun Vault Roofing offers trusted expertise in both traditional solar and integrated solar roofing systems. We work with each homeowner to evaluate energy usage, roof condition, design preferences, and budget—then build a custom solution that delivers long-term performance and value.

📞 Need a partner? Call us 608-608-1082 or Request a Free Solar Assessment to find out whether shingles or panels are the right solar solution is right for your home.