top of page
Why Choose Solar Roofing Instead of Conventional Solar Panels?
Solar roofing allows homeowners to generate electricity directly from their roof without installing separate solar panels. By integrating solar shingles into the roofing system itself, solar roofing combines weather protection and energy production in a single system, offering a cleaner appearance and a more seamless alternative to conventional rack-mounted solar panels
What do Solar Roofs look like in Wisconsin?
Sun Vault Roofing has installed solar shingle roofs across the state, from Sheboygan to Delavan, and Verona to Wauwatosa. Check out our gallery to see what our work looks like.
Solar Roofing vs. Conventional Solar Panels
Solar roofing and conventional solar panels both allow homeowners to produce clean energy, but they are designed for different situations.
Solar Roofing
Uses roof-integrated solar shingles that replace traditional asphalt shingles during a full roof replacement. Because the solar system and roof are installed together, solar roofing is often the best option when a roof is due for replacement and homeowners want to combine roofing and energy production into one long-term investment.
Choosing between the two depends largely on roof age, condition, aesthetics, and long-term ownership plans rather than energy production alone.
Benefits of Solar Roofing
These are the key advantages of solar roofing:
In Short:
Solar roofing is usually the better choice when a roof needs replacement and homeowners value aesthetics, low maintenance, and plan to stay long-term. Conventional panels often make more sense on newer roofs where replacement isn’t expected for many years.
Is Solar Roofing the Right Option?
If you think solar roofing is not right for you at this time, we are still happy to help you with your asphalt roofing or conventional solar needs.
Request a free inspection now!
What Homeowners Are Saying:
Alan Pitas, Evansville, WI
"Sun Vault Roofing replaced our hail damaged roof with solar shingles. They provided excellent service and attention to detail. We are currently generating electricity from our new roof. We highly recommend them."
Frequently asked questions
Will Sun Vault Roofing apply for the Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) on my behalf?
The ITC is claimed when you file your taxes, so it has to be submitted by you or your tax preparer. We aren’t tax professionals, so we can’t give formal tax advice or file anything for you.
That said, we’re happy to support you with any documentation you need. After your solar roof is installed, we can provide receipts, system specs, and other details you will need for filing. If you’d like, we can also point you toward general IRS resources about how the tax credit works.
Quick note: Everyone’s tax situation is different. We always recommend talking to a qualified tax professional to make sure you’re eligible and getting the full benefit.
Tell me about the tax credit for solar roofs.
The federal solar tax credit covers 30% of the costs directly associated with your solar energy system—including solar shingles, related electrical components, and the portion of the roof that supports the solar array. At Sun Vault Roofing, we provide a detailed cost breakdown that separates solar and non-solar expenses so you can accurately claim the eligible portion of your project. For more information, refer to CertainTeed’s Solar Tax Credit FAQ and consult your tax advisor.
Are there additional incentives available?
Yes! Focus on Energy provides a rebate of up to $600 for installing solar on your home. We will apply for this rebate on your behalf upon project completion.
Will my solar system be sized to eliminate my entire electric bill?
Our systems are designed to offset between 50–100% of your electric usage, depending on usage, roof space, and shading. You can offset even more if you wish, but this is not typically recommended due to the economics of net metering.
Can I monitor my solar production?
Yes! The manufacturers of the inverters we use (Growatt, SMA, and Sol-Ark) include mobile apps for real-time energy tracking.
Why should I go with solar roofing instead of a regular asphalt roof?
Asphalt roofing has been around for thousands of years, but it has never produced energy. Solar roofing lets your roof protect your home and lower your electric bill at the same time. In Wisconsin, our Solstice solar shingles replace part of your asphalt shingles with energy-producing shingles that look like a modern roof instead of a solar array. If you are already planning an asphalt roof replacement, choosing solar shingles allows you to combine a new roof and solar installation in one project rather than paying for separate roofing and solar work later.
What about snow on solar roofs?
In Wisconsin winters, snow typically is not a major issue for solar roofs. The dark surface and waste heat from the system help our solar shingles shed snow naturally, and their smooth glass surface is more slippery than asphalt shingles. And even if it doesn't melt, since solar production is lower in winter overall, the annual impact of snow covering your solar cells is negligible for most homeowners. If you are concerned about the amount of snow on your roof, whether or not you have solar, check out our winter services including ice dam remediation and snow removal.
Will you help people do their paperwork for taxes, permitting, and utility connectivity?
Yes. We handle all permitting and utility paperwork. For taxes, we provide a detailed cost breakdown so you can claim eligible portions under the federal solar tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Wisconsin?
Yes! While Wisconsin has fewer sunny days than southern states, modern solar systems are designed to perform efficiently in cold climates. Cooler temperatures actually improve solar panel efficiency, and available incentives help offset upfront costs. For many homeowners, solar provides long-term energy savings, increased home value, and protection against rising utility rates.
Are solar roofs insurable?
Yes. Modern solar roofs, including fully integrated solar shingle systems, are insurable and typically covered under standard homeowners insurance policies. In most cases, the solar shingles are treated as part of the roof itself rather than a separate system. Coverage terms and premiums vary by insurer, but reputable solar roofing products are designed to meet building codes, wind ratings, and impact standards that insurers already recognize. In one of our recent projects, a homeowner saw a 39% reduction in their insurance premium after installing a Sun Vault Roofing solar roof.
Are solar shingles worth it?
es, for many homeowners they are. If you look only at electricity bill offsets, solar shingles may have a payback period that is one to two years longer than conventional solar panels. However, that comparison doesn’t tell the full story.
When you factor in lower maintenance, a single integrated installation, and increased home value driven by aesthetics, solar shingles can offer better overall value for homeowners who are already planning a roof replacement. Whether they’re “worth it” depends on roof age, long-term plans for the home, and how much value you place on appearance and simplicity.
Do solar shingles improve home resale value?
Yes. Zillow found homes with solar sold for 4.1% more on average. But that's an older national number that assumes standard, rack-mounted panels. Newer analysis puts the premium closer to 7%, with premium integrated systems sitting at the top of that range. Ownership matters most - owned systems add value while leases and PPAs often don't, and every system we install is owned by the homeowner. Solar shingles go a step further: they look like a high-end roof rather than equipment bolted on top, which broadens buyer appeal and supports appraisal value. And in a market like Madison, where buyers place a strong soft value on sustainability, that premium tends to land harder than the national average suggests.
Smart Roofing Advice for Wisconsin Homeowners
We share real advice for Wisconsin homeowners on protecting your roof, saving energy, and making smart solar choices.
bottom of page