Blog Updated: April 2026
Tesla’s solar roof tiles have been creating plenty of buzz in the world of solar power, and some people want to know more about these tiles and if Namaste Solar installs them. Namaste Solar does not currently install solar roof tiles, but we can help you cut through some of the media hype to decide whether solar roof tiles are a good option for you. In this post we’ll look at the pros and cons of the Tesla solar roof when considering solar panels for your home.
Key Takeaways about Tesla Roof Tiles
- If you’re a homeowner in Colorado who is exploring your solar options, talking with a non-commissioned solar advisor at Namaste Solar is a great next step.
- Deployment of Tesla’s solar roof has been slow with significant delays for homeowners who want to purchase.
- The Tesla solar roof is liked by consumers because of the design and durability.
- The Tesla solar roof can miss the mark because of the extremely high cost and maintenance challenges.
- Tesla is a leader in the home battery backup market with its line of battery storage called Powerwalls. Namaste Solar installs the Tesla Powerwall 3 and the Enphase 5P as home battery backup options.
Tesla Solar Roof: What You Need to Know
Deployment of Tesla’s solar roof product has been slow with significant delays. As of March 2023, there were 3,000 Tesla solar roofs installed in the U.S. since its launch in 2016, a far cry from the 1,000 a week that the company initially boasted. While the company publicly refuted this number, they haven’t posted the actual figure.
The slow deployment, and subsequent wait, may be worth it for some who value the differentiating elements of the product. Other homeowners may want to start seeing the benefits of clean solar energy now, including seeing solar savings in their pocket.
What Are the Pros of Tesla Roof Tiles?
There are a few benefits to Tesla roof tiles that customers can enjoy. They are:
- Warranty and durability: Tesla roof tiles are comprised of both glass solar tiles and steel roofing tiles.The glass solar tiles produce energy while architectural-grade steel tiles add longevity and durability. The Tesla solar roof has a 25-year warranty allowing them to produce clean energy for decades.
- Design: The most noticeable difference between solar panels and the solar roof is design. Tesla offers four different styles to choose from; textured, smooth, Tuscan, or slate-styled solar roof tiles. The tiles mimic the look of a traditional roof so your neighbors won’t even know you have solar on your house (though many of our customers enjoy being solar trendsetters). If you want to maintain the aesthetics of your rooftop, the solar roof tiles are a great option for adding solar energy to your home.
What Are the Cons of Tesla Roof Tiles?
There are also some cons to going with the Tesla solar roof. They are:
- Unknown Return on Investment: When you crunch the numbers (like this Forbes contributor did), solar panels still offer a significantly higher return on investment. According to their head-to-head comparison of the Tesla solar roof vs. solar panels for the same house, the Tesla Solar Roof cost 48.9% more and yielded just 2.79% of the savings that the solar panels delivered. In other words, with the solar roof tiles you pay almost 50% more and get 97% less in savings. Ouch. And further, Tesla’s solar roof tiles have been found to be 20-30% less efficient than standard solar panels.
- Cost: To install Tesla’s solar roof, you’re required to replace your whole roof – even if you don’t need a new roof right now. That means you’re paying for the cost of both a solar energy system and a new roof. According to EnergySage, on an apples-to-apples comparison: “Tesla’s solar roof will cost nearly $25,000 more than installing solar panels and yet will only deliver 77 percent as much solar electricity” because the solar tiles aren’t able to produce as much energy as traditional panels.
- Maintenance: Any necessary maintenance is handled via the Tesla app, and because the roof tiles are a specialized product, you need a specialized crew to perform any maintenance for fix for your system. Without widespread installation of solar roof tiles, it’s unlikely that many crews are available locally.
Are Solar Roof Tiles for You?
The Tesla solar roof tiles are an option for homeowners who are concerned about the aesthetics of their rooftop because the tiles look like a traditional rooftop. The tiles do come with a high price tag, though, and will make a Tesla solar roof cost prohibitive for many homeowners. Solar panels are still a reliable, tested, and durable option for homeowners who are looking for a great return on investment.
Are There Any Other Tesla Products I Should Know About?
While the roof tiles may not be taking off, battery storage is changing the industry. Namaste Solar offers the Tesla’s Powerwall 3 and the Enphase 5P as our home battery backup options. Battery storage is highly incentivized right now through state and utility tax credits. Battery storage allows you to utilize your stored solar power every day and has the ability to ensure your home is resilient to power outages. These types of outages are going to increase in frequency as climate change progresses and have already become a standard concern in Colorado. You can learn more about battery storage here.
Are You a Coloradan Exploring Your Solar Options?
If you live in Colorado and are exploring what options you have for solar and home battery backup, Namaste Solar is happy to help you explore your options. Reach out by calling 303-536-8920 or clicking the button below to get a quote from one of our non-commissioned solar experts today.
