Tesla's Solar Roof tiles now available for pre-order, with 'infinity' warranty
Tesla is not content with just a spot in your driveway.
The company today began accepting orders for the latest product in its arsenal, the long-awaited Solar Roof. Installation of the energy-generating tiles are set to begin this summer in the U.S., and in 2018 for areas outside of the country.
Notably, Tesla says that a Solar Roof will be cheaper than a traditional non-solar roof. How is this possible? Let's let Tesla explain.
"Although the cost of our solar tiles is more expensive up front, it can be more than offset by the value of energy the tiles produce," notes the press release. "In many cases, the reduction in a home’s electricity bill over time will be greater than the cost of the roof."
That's right, the roof might pay for itself and then some.
And in a move that echoes its insurance offerings for some Tesla vehicles, the company says Solar Roof comes with an impressive warranty.
"Solar Roof is the most durable roof available and the glass itself will come with a warranty for the lifetime of your house, or infinity, whichever comes first," the press release declares.
Tesla can be so bold in its warranty because the company claims that the durability of its tiles puts other roofing materials to shame.
"Made with tempered glass," the press release continues, "Solar Roof tiles are more than three times stronger than standard roofing tiles, yet half the weight. They do not degrade over time like asphalt or concrete."
In addition to being guaranteed for the lifetime of your home, the Solar Roof can combine with a Powerwall to meet a substantial amount of a house's energy needs.
Homeowners can order a roof that is a mix of partial tempered-glass solar tiles and non-solar tiles, with the idea being that the roof can be customized to an owner's need. Do you charge your Tesla Model S every night, for example? Then a higher concentration of tiles is right for you.
Tesla says the "typical homeowner" should expect to pay around $21.85 per square foot, but has introduced a Solar Roof calculator to help dial that cost in.
