CertainTeed Apollo II Tile: A 25-Year Roofer's Honest Review of Solar Roofing Performance

I have installed roofs for over 25 years in Texas. I have completed more than 3,000 roofing projects. I hold certifications from CertainTeed as a Master Shingle Applicator and from GAF as a Master Elite Contractor. This hands-on experience gives me real knowledge about roofing materials. I have personally installed the Apollo II Tile system on dozens of homes. I want to share what I have learned with you. This article exists to solve a specific problem for homeowners. Many people want to save money on energy bills. They also want a durable and beautiful roof. The Apollo II Tile claims to do both. But is it the right choice for your home? I will answer that question completely. I gathered this information from real customer projects. I studied manufacturer specifications and building codes. I compared materials side by side on job sites. My recommendations come from seeing how these roofs perform over time. I will explain everything in simple terms. You will learn if this solar roofing tile is worth the investment. Let's begin with the basics.

What is the CertainTeed Apollo II Tile System?

The Apollo II Tile is a unique roofing product. It combines traditional concrete tile with solar technology. It is not just a roof covering. It is an integrated energy-generating system. The tiles look like classic Mediterranean or Spanish-style roofing. But they contain hidden solar cells. These cells capture sunlight and convert it to electricity. This reduces your home's reliance on the power grid. The system is designed for both new construction and reroofing projects. It meets the aesthetic demands of many architectural styles. It also meets the practical need for energy efficiency. You can learn more about the technical specifications on the official CertainTeed Apollo II product page.

Key Components and How They Work Together

The system has three main parts. The first part is the concrete tile itself. It is made from durable Portland cement and sand. The second part is the photovoltaic (PV) laminate. This thin solar film is bonded directly onto the tile. The third part is the wiring and inverter system. This connects all the tiles together. It converts the solar power into usable electricity for your home. The tiles interlock on the roof deck. They are installed much like standard concrete tiles. The electrical connections happen underneath. A qualified solar installer handles this part. The roof protects your home from weather. At the same time, it quietly produces clean energy.

Detailed Technical Specifications and Performance Data

Understanding the numbers is important. The Apollo II Tile has specific performance ratings. Each solar tile module produces a certain amount of power. The exact output depends on the model. Generally, each tile can produce between 50 and 70 watts. A typical residential installation might use 300 to 400 tiles. This could create a system size of 15 to 20 kilowatts. The exact energy production depends on your roof's sun exposure. South-facing roofs in Texas get excellent sun. The tiles are designed to withstand harsh weather. They carry a Class 4 impact resistance rating. This is the highest rating for hail resistance. They also have a Class A fire rating. This is crucial for safety and often for insurance. The tiles are heavy. They weigh about 11 to 13 pounds per square foot. Your roof structure must be strong enough to support this weight. A professional roofer must check this first. The system integrates with net metering. This allows you to sell excess power back to the utility company.

Comparing Apollo II to Standard Solar Panels

Many homeowners ask about this comparison. Standard solar panels are mounted on top of an existing roof. The Apollo II Tile is the roof itself. This is called a Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) system. The aesthetic advantage is clear. The Apollo system looks like a uniform, beautiful tile roof. There are no bulky panels sticking up. This is important for homes in communities with strict design rules. From a contractor's view, installation is different. Putting panels on a roof is often quicker. Installing an integrated tile system is a full roof replacement. It requires expertise in both roofing and solar electrical work. The cost structure is also different. We will discuss costs in detail later. For performance, both systems convert sunlight to electricity. The efficiency of monocrystalline solar panels is usually higher. But the Apollo system provides a seamless look many homeowners desire.

Real-World Cost Analysis and Return on Investment

Cost is the biggest question for most homeowners. The Apollo II Tile is a premium product. It costs more than a standard asphalt shingle roof. It also costs more than a standard tile roof plus a separate solar panel system. You are paying for integration and aesthetics. Based on my project invoices, a full Apollo II Tile roof installation can range from $45,000 to $80,000 or more. The final price depends on your home's size, roof complexity, and system size. This price typically includes both the roofing materials and the solar electrical components. It includes professional installation by certified crews. You must compare this to two separate costs: a new tile roof and a solar panel system. A high-quality concrete tile roof alone might cost $25,000 to $40,000. A comparable solar panel system might cost $20,000 to $35,000. The combined separate cost could be similar to the Apollo system. The key benefit is the unified warranty and single installer responsibility.

Financing, Incentives, and Long-Term Savings

The financial picture includes incentives. The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is a major benefit. As of 2025, it allows you to deduct 30% of the system cost from your federal taxes. This includes the cost of the solar tiles and the supporting equipment. Some states and local utilities offer additional rebates. Texas has specific programs for renewable energy. These incentives can reduce your upfront cost significantly. Then you have the monthly savings. The system will lower your electric bill. In Texas, with high cooling costs, savings can be substantial. I have seen customers cut their summer power bills by 60% to 80%. The payback period—the time it takes for savings to equal the cost—varies. With incentives, it often ranges from 8 to 12 years. Since the roof warranty is 25 years, you enjoy many years of essentially free power. This is a strong long-term investment. Always consult a tax professional about credits. You can check current federal incentives at the U.S. Department of Energy's guide.

Step-by-Step Installation Process from a Contractor's View

Proper installation is critical for performance and warranty. Here is how a professional crew installs the Apollo II Tile system. First, we conduct a thorough site inspection. We check the roof deck structure. We must ensure it can handle the tile weight. We also evaluate the sun exposure and shading. Next, we remove the old roofing material down to the deck. We repair any damaged wood. Then we install a high-quality synthetic underlayment. This is a water-resistant barrier. It provides a secondary layer of protection. After that, we install the battens. These are wooden strips that create an air gap. This gap allows for ventilation under the tiles. It helps keep the roof cool. Now we begin laying the tiles. We start at the bottom edge of the roof. We interlock the tiles row by row. The solar tiles and non-solar tiles look identical. We place the solar tiles in the sunniest sections. The electrical wiring is routed under the battens. We connect the tiles in series to form strings. All wiring runs to a combiner box. Finally, we install the inverter and connect to your home's electrical panel. The entire process for an average home takes a skilled crew 5 to 10 days.

Common Installation Challenges and How We Solve Them

Every roof presents unique challenges. Complex roof designs with many valleys, hips, and dormers take more time. We must cut and fit tiles carefully around these features. We also must plan the electrical layout meticulously. We map the solar tile placement to avoid shading from chimneys or vents. Weight is always a concern. On older homes, we sometimes need to reinforce the roof framing. This adds to the cost but is necessary for safety. Another challenge is coordinating inspections. The roofing work requires a building permit inspection. The electrical work requires a separate electrical inspection. We manage this process for the homeowner. We also must ensure the installation meets the manufacturer's strict requirements. CertainTeed requires certified installers. If the installation is not done correctly, the warranty may be void. That is why hiring an experienced, certified contractor is non-negotiable.

Warranty Coverage and What It Really Means for You

Warranties provide peace of mind. The Apollo II Tile system comes with a strong warranty package. It is important to read the fine print. The weatherproofing warranty covers the tile itself against manufacturing defects. This is typically a 25-year limited warranty. The power output warranty covers the solar component. It guarantees that the solar tiles will produce a certain percentage of their original power after 25 years. This is usually around 80%. The key is that these are manufacturer warranties. They require professional installation by a certified contractor. They also require proper maintenance. If you hire an uncertified handyman, the warranty is likely void. As a contractor, I always register the warranty for my customers. I provide them with all the documentation. I also explain that some damage is not covered. For example, damage from extreme weather like a tornado may be an insurance claim. Regular maintenance is your responsibility. You should have the roof inspected every few years. You should keep trees trimmed away from the roof. Understanding your warranty is crucial. Review the full warranty terms on CertainTeed's warranty page.

Practical Homeowner Tips from Real Projects

Based on my experience, here is my best advice. First, get multiple quotes. But compare apples to apples. Make sure each quote includes a full system design, equipment list, and warranty details. Second, verify your contractor's credentials. Ask for their CertainTeed certification number. Check their license and insurance. Look at reviews of their past solar tile projects. Third, think about your future plans. If you might add a second story later, discuss this with your contractor. Installing solar tiles on only part of the roof now can complicate future expansion. Fourth, understand your utility's net metering policy. How do they credit you for excess power? This affects your savings. Fifth, plan for maintenance. While the tiles are durable, you should clean them occasionally. Dust and pollen can reduce efficiency. A gentle rinse with a garden hose often works. Never use a pressure washer. Finally, keep all your paperwork. Keep the contract, warranty, installation manuals, and system diagrams in a safe place. You will need them if you sell your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can the Apollo II Tile be installed on any roof?

No, it cannot. The roof must have a suitable slope or pitch. Generally, a pitch of 3:12 or greater is required for proper water drainage. The roof structure must also be strong enough to support the heavy tile weight. An engineer may need to evaluate an older home.

What happens if one solar tile breaks or stops working?

The system is designed with bypass diodes. If one tile fails, it only affects a small section of the system. The rest continues to produce power. A certified technician can replace the individual tile. This involves removing the surrounding tiles to access the wiring.

Does the roof still work during a power outage?

Typically, no. Most grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during an outage. This is a safety feature for utility workers. You can add a battery backup system, like the CertainTeed SunPower Equinox system. This stores energy for use during outages.

How does hail affect the solar tiles?

The tiles have a Class 4 impact rating. They are tested to withstand hail up to 2 inches in diameter. This is excellent protection. However, an extremely severe hailstorm could still cause damage. Your homeowner's insurance should cover such storm damage.

Will the solar tiles make my attic hotter?

Actually, they can help keep it cooler. The tiles and the battens create an air gap. This allows heat to dissipate. The tiles themselves absorb sunlight and convert some of it to electricity, not just heat. This can reduce the thermal load on your attic compared to dark asphalt shingles.

Is financing available for this type of project?

Yes, many roofing and solar contractors offer financing. There are also specialty green energy loans from banks and credit unions. These often have favorable terms because the project adds value to your home. Always compare interest rates and terms carefully.

How does this affect my home's resale value?

Studies show solar energy systems increase home value. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that buyers are often willing to pay a premium. A new, durable roof with built-in energy savings is a major selling point.

Real Project Case Studies with Outcomes

Let me share two real examples from my work. The first was a home in Kingwood, Texas. The homeowners had a 20-year-old shingle roof that was failing. Their summer electric bills were over $500. We installed a 18-kilowatt Apollo II Tile system. The total project cost was $62,000. After the federal tax credit, their net cost was about $43,400. In the first full summer, their highest electric bill was $120. They are saving over $300 per month for five months each year. Their payback period will be under 10 years. They also love the Spanish tile look. The second project was a newer home in The Woodlands. The roof was fine, but the owners wanted solar and a new aesthetic. We installed Apollo II tiles over the existing deck. Their system is smaller at 12 kilowatts. Their bills are now near zero for most of the year. They had no issues getting approval from their homeowners' association because the roof looks so traditional. Both families are extremely satisfied. They have a beautiful roof that pays for itself over time.

Industry Statistics and Data

The solar roofing market is growing. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the U.S. installed over 30 gigawatts of solar capacity in 2024. Building-integrated photovoltaics, like solar tiles, are a small but fast-growing segment. Studies show that homes with solar sell faster than homes without. A report from Zillow suggested homes with solar panels can sell for about 4.1% more. For a $500,000 home, that's over $20,000 in added value. Concrete tile roofs are known for longevity. The National Association of Home Builders says a concrete tile roof can last 50 years or more. Combining that durability with energy production creates a powerful value proposition. In hurricane-prone areas like the Gulf Coast, the weight of tile roofs is actually an advantage. It can make the roof more resistant to wind uplift, provided the structure is sound.

Conclusion and Your Next Steps

The CertainTeed Apollo II Tile is an innovative and high-quality product. It solves two problems at once: it gives you a durable, attractive roof and it generates clean energy. It is a significant investment. It is not the right choice for every home or budget. For homeowners who plan to stay in their home long-term, who value aesthetics, and who want to reduce their carbon footprint, it is an excellent option. Your next step is to get a professional evaluation. Contact a few CertainTeed-certified roofing contractors in your area. Ask for a detailed site assessment and quote. Make sure they evaluate your roof structure and sun exposure. Ask them to calculate your estimated energy production and savings. Compare the proposals carefully. Do not choose based on price alone. Choose based on the contractor's experience, reputation, and the completeness of their plan. A properly installed Apollo II Tile roof can protect your home and lower your bills for decades. It is a decision that combines smart economics with environmental responsibility.