Going solar is a powerful way to celebrate Earth Day. And what better solar option than the world’s first nailable solar shingle: the Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingle (ES)? GAF Energy launched this revolutionary solar roofing product in early 2022. Since then it’s won various awards and it’s already being installed on rooftops across the country. If you’re considering going green with a Timberline Solar™ roof, here are answers to some common questions we receive. 

  1. What is Timberline Solar™?
    What better place to start than with the most important question of all: what is it? Timberline Solar™ is the only roof system to directly integrate solar technology into traditional roofing processes and materials. It’s different from traditional solar options that are placed on top of a roof, because it’s integrated into the roof itself. The solar shingles work alongside the asphalt shingles to create a system that both produces energy and protects your home from the elements.

  2. Where is Timberline Solar™ made?
    The Timberline Solar ES™ is assembled domestically at the GAF Energy R&D and manufacturing facility in San Jose, California. The factory is 112,000 sq ft – 60,000 square feet of which is manufacturing space located directly adjacent to the R&D office – and employs more than 130 people in manufacturing, research, and administrative functions all under one roof. By choosing to install a Timberline Solar™ roof on your home, you’re helping GAF Energy create American jobs and deliver a game-changing product with the potential to significantly increase residential clean energy adoption.

  3. How much does Timberline Solar™ cost?
    Pricing varies based on a number of factors, including the size and slope of the customer’s roof and the shading around their home, but a Timberline Solar™ roof is designed to be affordable and is typically comparable to a new roof plus traditional rack-mounted solar panels. In order to achieve energy from every roof, we believe affordability is a necessity.

  4. How does shading around a home affect a Timberline Solar™ installation?
    Solar cells function by capturing sunlight and converting it into energy. Therefore, if a solar module is blocked from the sun, it won’t function properly. That’s why most solar roofing systems – such as a Timberline Solar™ roof – require maximum sunlight exposure. If your roof has light shading, solar may still work, depending on how severe it is. Of course, optimal energy generation is only achieved if there’s no shade, but a little may be okay. The great part is – Timberline Solar™ is made up of individual shingles that can be placed in favorable, sunny areas of the roof.

  5. Can Timberline Solar™ be installed around other objects on a roof, such as vents, chimneys, skylights, and satellite dishes?
    Installing Timberline Solar™ on a roof with obstructions is usually possible. It all depends on how much the obstructions would interfere, and whether the homeowner is okay with moving or eliminating objects that are in the way. Timberline Solar™ can’t be installed on top of existing obstructions, but it can be installed somewhat close to them. What makes the Timberline Solar ES™ uniquely appealing is its size and installation method. Unlike large rigid solar panels with limited layout options, the ES™ is able to fit on smaller areas of a roof.

  6. When can I get Timberline Solar™?
    GAF Energy is strategically rolling out Timberline Solar™ across the country. We’re already installing it on homes in many states, and if we’re not in your region yet, we intend to be in the near future. The best way to check if your home is eligible is by completing a form on our page for homeowners. 

At GAF Energy, we believe every roof is an opportunity for renewable energy. And for homeowners, there’s never a better time to go solar than when you’re getting a new roof. So whether you’re planning for the future or in need of a new roof now, consider Timberline Solar™ this Earth Day and help GAF Energy achieve energy from every roof.