Product Types · Updated 2026

Integrated Solar Roofing Types Compared

How nailable solar shingles, solar tiles, and traditional panels differ on installation, appearance, power density, and cost.

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By Green Conception·Updated September 10, 2026·7 min read

Integrated solar roofing comes in two main forms: nailable solar shingles that install alongside asphalt shingles as a combined roof and generation layer, and solar tiles that replace the entire roof covering with a mix of energy and non-energy tiles. Both differ from traditional rack-mounted panels, which mount over an existing roof. Panels deliver the most power per square foot and the lowest cost per watt; integrated products trade some of that for a built-in roof look.

The Main Types Compared

Integrated solar roofing versus traditional panels. Power density and cost from manufacturer datasheets and marketplace data, 2026.
Type	How It Installs	Power Density	Relative Cost
Nailable solar shingles	laid alongside asphalt shingles	about 14 to 17 W/sq ft	3.80 to 7.00 dollars/W
Solar tiles / full solar roof	replaces the whole roof covering	about 14 to 16 W/sq ft	highest, roof plus solar
Traditional rack-mounted panels	mounts over the existing roof	about 20+ W/sq ft	about 2.52 dollars/W (CA)

How Each Type Works

Nailable Solar Shingles

These energy shingles lay side by side with standard asphalt shingles and act as both roof and generator. A roofing crew installs them, with no separate racking. A leading example, GAF Timberline Solar, delivers about 1.7 kW per roofing square.

Solar Tiles and Full Solar Roofs

The roof covering itself becomes a mix of energy-producing and blank tiles, so the project includes a full roof replacement. This gives the most seamless look but is the most expensive route.

Traditional Panels

Mounted on rails above your existing roof, panels are the highest power density and lowest cost per watt. They are the value choice when your roof is in good condition.

Choosing by Roof Situation

Replacing the roof anyway favors integrated shingles. A sound roof favors panels. A premium look on a higher-value home is where full solar tile roofs fit.

Which Type Fits Your Home

The right type depends less on the technology and more on your roof and budget. If your roof is aging and due for replacement, nailable solar shingles let you re-roof and add solar in one project with a single warranty. If your roof is sound, traditional panels give you more energy for less money. Full solar tile roofs deliver the most integrated appearance at the highest cost. A free assessment measures your roof and shows the production and price for each option that fits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of integrated solar roofing products?

There are two main types: nailable solar shingles that install alongside asphalt shingles as a combined roof and solar layer, and solar tiles that replace the entire roof covering with a mix of energy and blank tiles. Both differ from traditional rack-mounted panels, which install over an existing roof.

How do solar shingles differ from solar tiles?

Solar shingles lay alongside standard asphalt shingles and are installed by a roofing crew as part of the roof surface. Solar tiles replace the whole roof covering with a system of energy-producing and blank tiles, so the project always includes a full roof replacement and costs more.

Do integrated solar products produce as much power as panels?

Not per square foot. Integrated shingles and tiles deliver roughly 14 to 17 watts per square foot, while traditional panels deliver about 20 or more. On a limited roof, panels produce more total energy, though integrated products offer a lower profile and a built-in roof look.

Which type of solar roofing is most cost-effective?

Traditional rack-mounted panels are the most cost-effective at about 2.52 dollars per watt in California. Integrated shingles run 3.80 to 7.00 dollars per watt, and full solar tile roofs cost the most because they include a complete roof replacement. Integrated products make the most sense when you are re-roofing anyway.