If you’re a homeowner on Long Island, chances are you’ve looked at your utility bills and thought,
“Is now the time to go solar?”
You wouldn’t be alone. With rising energy costs and a growing push toward cleaner, more efficient homes, solar technology is getting a lot of attention. But not everyone’s excited about bolting large, traditional solar panels to their roof.
Enter solar shingles—the sleek, low-profile alternative designed to look like a regular roof while still generating power. They’re modern. They’re efficient. But here’s the question we’re hearing more and more:
Can solar shingles actually hold up to Long Island’s coastal weather?
From Nor’easters to salt air, Long Island presents some tough conditions for any roofing system—let alone one that’s also generating electricity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what solar shingles are, how they perform in our climate, and whether they’re a smart fit for your home.
What you’ll take away:
- What solar shingles are (and how they’re different from traditional solar)
- How they perform in Long Island’s unique climate
- What you need to know before installing them
- Pros, cons, warranties, and long-term savings
- How Rebuild America installs them with GAF Timberline Solar™
Looking for straightforward advice from a local expert? We’re here to help.
First, What Are Solar Shingles—and How Do They Work?
Let’s start with the basics.
Solar shingles are roof materials that also act as solar panels. Instead of mounting hardware on top of your existing shingles, this technology builds the solar functionality into the roofing system itself.
Think of it as solving two problems at once:
You get a new roof and clean energy—without any bulky panels or exposed racking.
At Rebuild America, we install GAF Timberline Solar™, a fully integrated system designed to protect your home and generate electricity—all while looking like a high-end asphalt roof. For many Long Island homeowners, it’s the first solar solution that actually makes aesthetic and structural sense.
So, what makes this more than just a good-looking upgrade?
Why Weather Performance Matters on Long Island
We live in a place where roofing isn’t just about style—it’s about protection. Our homes go through a lot over the course of a year:
- High winds from coastal storms
- Salt air, especially in south shore and bayside areas
- Snow, ice, and freeze/thaw cycles
- Intense summer sun and humidity
When you’re installing something like solar shingles—which are both a roof and an energy system—performance in these conditions is everything. You need a product that isn’t just energy-efficient, but tough enough to survive decades of seasonal abuse.
What You Should Know Before Installing Solar Shingles
If you’re considering solar roofing, there are a few key factors to think through. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and your home needs to be the right fit.
1. Your Roof’s Age and Condition
You can’t install solar shingles over an old roof. This is a full replacement system. If your roof is more than 15 years old, it may be the ideal time to make the switch.
2. Budget and Cost Expectations
A typical solar shingle installation on Long Island runs between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on roof size and layout. It’s more than a basic asphalt roof or panel setup—but you’re getting both in one.
We offer financing through Service Finance, and most homeowners qualify for federal and state solar incentives to offset the upfront cost.
3. Permitting and HOAs
Townships vary, and some HOAs are strict about roof changes. We handle all permits, utility paperwork, and HOA coordination—start to finish.
4. Solar Compatibility
Not every roof qualifies. If you have significant shading, a very low pitch, or unusual angles, it might not be a fit. We provide a full site assessment up front to make sure it works for your home.
So, Do Solar Shingles Really Hold Up in Long Island Weather?
Yes—if you’re using the right product, installed by a qualified contractor.
We install GAF Timberline Solar™, a product engineered specifically for performance in demanding climates like ours. Here’s how it performs:
High Winds
Rated to withstand winds up to 130 mph, these shingles are built for hurricane zones. That makes them more than ready for coastal storms on Long Island.
Salt Air
Traditional solar systems use metal racks that corrode over time. Timberline Solar™ integrates directly into your roof deck, minimizing metal exposure and reducing corrosion risk in salt-prone areas.
Snow and Ice
These shingles are sealed against moisture and help shed snow naturally. Their dark surface absorbs heat, accelerating snow melt and helping you get back to full solar production faster.
Heat and UV Resistance
UV exposure and heat expansion are two major threats to roof lifespan. GAF’s materials are built to withstand both—resisting cracking, fading, and warping over time.
All of that sounds great on paper—but how does it play out in real-world scenarios?
For Example: What a Solar Shingle Installation Could Look Like
Let’s say you own a 1950s Cape in a Long Island neighborhood—maybe in Wantagh or Babylon. Your roof is approaching 20 years old, energy bills are rising, and you’re exploring solar—but not thrilled with the look of traditional panels.
In this case, solar shingles offer a smart, all-in-one upgrade. You’d get a complete roof replacement with built-in solar capability—no racks, no panel mounts, no visual clutter.
Depending on your energy use and roof orientation, you could reduce your electric bills by 30 to 60 percent, especially during summer peaks. Your system would be eligible for federal and state tax credits, and protected by long-term warranties on power production, product durability, and workmanship.
From the street? It would look like a modern, high-performance architectural roof.
What to Expect When You Go Solar with Rebuild America
If this sounds like a good fit for your home, here’s what the process typically looks like when you work with Rebuild America:
1. Consultation and Roof Evaluation
We start with an on-site visit to inspect your roof and evaluate solar exposure. If your home isn’t a good candidate, we’ll tell you—and recommend alternatives.
2. Full Roof Replacement with Integrated Solar
If your home qualifies, we’ll remove your existing roofing and install a GAF Timberline Solar™ system. This includes both the protective roofing layers and the integrated solar shingles—installed by our factory-trained crews.
3. Electrical Setup and Monitoring
GAF Energy handles the electrical connection and monitoring system, so you can track performance from your phone or computer.
4. Long-Term Protection
Every solar shingle system we install includes:
- 25-Year Solar Power Output Guarantee
- 25-Year Product Warranty
- GAF Golden Pledge Warranty, covering materials and workmanship
5. Energy Savings and Incentives
- Save 30–60% on electric bills, depending on usage and exposure
- Take advantage of net metering to earn credit for extra energy
- Qualify for the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit
- Access local incentives through the NY-Sun program
The result? A high-performance, low-maintenance roofing system that saves money, increases home value, and stands up to Long Island’s toughest weather.
Are Long Island Solar Shingles the Right Choice? Let’s Weigh the Pros and Cons
| Benefits | Considerations |
| Sleek, modern curb appeal | Higher upfront cost than panels |
| Built for Long Island’s weather | Requires full roof replacement |
| Covered by long-term warranties | Not ideal for shaded homes |
| Boosts home value and energy savings | Fewer certified installers available |
Solar Roofing FAQs for Long Island Homeowners
Can I install solar shingles on just part of my roof?
No, solar shingles cannot be installed on just part of your roof unless you’re also replacing the entire roofing system. GAF Timberline Solar™ requires a full roofing system installation to ensure performance, warranty coverage, and system integration.
Do solar shingles need regular maintenance?
Solar shingles require very little maintenance. Unlike traditional panels, they don’t have racks or mounts that need tightening, and there are no moving parts. We recommend periodic inspections as part of your general roof care to ensure optimal performance.
How do solar shingles perform on cloudy days?
Solar shingles still generate power on cloudy days. While output is reduced compared to full sun, GAF Timberline Solar™ shingles are designed to be efficient even in overcast weather—common during Long Island’s winter and spring seasons.
Are solar shingles more expensive than traditional solar panels?
Yes, solar shingles are generally more expensive upfront than traditional solar panels. However, they combine two major upgrades into one: a new roof and a solar system. Over time, the investment can be more efficient, especially if your roof needs replacement anyway.
What happens if one of the solar shingles fails?
If one of your solar shingles fails, it won’t shut down the entire system. Each Timberline Solar™ shingle functions independently. Monitoring software allows you to detect issues, and covered repairs are included in your warranty when installed by Rebuild America.
Do solar shingles affect home insurance rates?
Solar shingles typically don’t increase your home insurance rates, but it’s a good idea to notify your provider after installation. Because they’re integrated into the roof rather than added on, they often pose fewer insurance complications than traditional panels.
Can I add a battery storage system to solar shingles?
Yes, you can add battery storage to a solar shingle system. While it’s not required, pairing your system with battery backup can provide energy resilience during power outages. We can recommend compatible options if this is part of your energy goals.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If your roof is nearing the end of its life and you’re thinking about solar, solar shingles may be one of the smartest upgrades you can make. You’ll get a clean, modern roof that powers your home, lowers your utility bills, and holds up to the realities of Long Island’s climate.
But like any big decision, it depends on your goals, your home, and the timing.
At Rebuild America: Roofing, Windows, and Remodeling, we’ve installed thousands of roofs across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor and one of the only certified GAF Timberline Solar™ installers in the region, we’re here to give you clear, local guidance—without pressure.
Schedule your appointment today. We’ll evaluate your roof, walk you through your options, and give you a clear, honest plan to move forward.
