Consider what you know about solar power and the evolution of sustainability for ordinary homeowners. The rollout of solar shingles in 2009 by Dow Chemical Company took the concept of rooftop solar to the next level. Homeowners who were on the fence about installing bulky solar panels suddenly had an alternative that presented more like a traditional roofing material.
In more recent years, homeowners vying for a solar roof have a myriad of product options from different solar companies — the Tesla solar shingle roof wasn't the only product that turned heads. Furthermore, cost reductions, product enhancements, and Federal tax credits sweeten the deal. In a recent study about public sentiment on solar energy, ElectricityRates noted that 58% of its respondents felt that adopting solar power could lead to an increase in property value. And this is true. Zillow also shared a study that noted how solar may increase the appraised value of a home by an average of 4.1%.
Homeowners who have an eye on the future, remember: The future is solar.
CertainTeed is at the forefront of the clean energy transition, helping homeowners achieve energy independence without sacrificing durability or aesthetics. When it comes to solar, CertainTeed claims to have the "industry's strongest warranty." In its 2024 U.S. Industry Trend Report, CertainTeed highlights:
- 46% of consumers and professionals seek out products with renewable energy sources
- 47% of residential builders and contractors are likely to consider a solar roofing system
- 21% of professionals and consumers alike cite energy cost savings as the main driver for solar product adoption
- Millennials are nearly 2x as likely as Gen X and nearly 4x as likely as Boomers to consider solar roofing systems
Looking Ahead at an Evolving Industry
“As we look to 2024 and beyond, the roof as we know it will transform at an unprecedented pace: interest in more sustainable solutions, rising energy costs, new IRA (Inflation Reduction Act) tax credits and advancements in product innovation are driving an exciting shift in the interest and adoption of solar solutions," shares Phoebe Kwan, General Manager, CertainTeed Solar Solutions.
She adds, "Our innovations are making the jump easier than ever: contractors appreciate the easy, fast installation, and homeowners are taking note of our performance, sleek design, and compatibility with new and existing roofing — all backed by an industry-leading warranty."
Residential builders and contractors are more likely to lead the conversation on solar and advocate for installation. ElectrictyRates observes that Arizona, Colorado, Florida, and Texas lead the country on solar initiatives. The report also highlights 14 states where homeowners can reap the greatest programs in support of solar energy based on financial incentives, renewable energy standards, metering regulations, and permitting processes: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.
What Homeowners Are Asking
Tyler Grace, Owner of TRG Home Concepts/Co-host of Modern Craftsman Podcast; Medford, New Jersey shares "For most of the country, the financial aspect of solar will be the biggest motivator. They want to know how long it will take to recoup their investment, what the tax incentives are, and how it will impact their monthly operating expenses."
The good news is, the Residential Clean Energy Credit (aka the Federal Solar Tax Credit) continues to benefit homeowners seeking solar tiles or solar panel installation. (Link last checked March 2025.)
CertainTeed is dedicated to providing clear information on product performance, longevity, and sustainability. According to CertainTeed's website, the average cost to install solar has dropped by more than 70%, making it a great time for consumers to explore solar energy and learn how they can adapt their current roof with a solar system.
