Frequently asked questions

ICON by VOLTAIC is a roof-first concrete tile roof with solar built into the roof plane. Unlike rack-mounted panels, ICON replaces the roofing materials in the areas where solar is installed, creating one unified roof system instead of equipment added on top. The goal is simple: a premium roof that protects the home and generates electricity without changing the roofline. ICON is designed to integrate solar only where it produces power, while the rest of the roof uses matching concrete tile for a consistent, architectural finish. See more

Solar panels are modules that are mounted above an existing roof structure using racking systems. In contrast, solar roof tiles (or building-integrated photovoltaic systems) replace or integrate directly with the roof structure itself—the photovoltaic cells are built into or laminated onto the roofing tiles. Because solar roof tiles serve dual functions (roofing + generation), they typically reduce visual clutter, limit penetrations, and can be more seamless in appearance. The choice depends on whether a new roof is needed, architectural priorities, and site-specific shading and orientation conditions.

Solar roof tiles (also called photovoltaic roof tiles or solar shingles) integrate photovoltaic (PV) cells into roofing materials so the tiles themselves generate electricity while acting as the weatherproof roof surface. Rather than mounting panels above traditional roofing, the PV elements are built into or placed beneath the roofing material, creating a seamless, low-profile appearance. How they work (mechanically & electrically): Each tile contains PV cells (often crystalline silicon) that convert sunlight (photons) into direct current (DC) electricity via the photovoltaic effect. Tiles are wired together (typically in series strings or sub-strings) so the voltages stack, then connected to a DC-to-AC inverter (or in some systems, hybrid inverters) that converts the DC into alternating current (AC) usable by household loads or for grid export. Excess electricity can be fed back to the grid (net metering) or stored in batteries. The roof structure underneath must support the tiles and often includes standard roofing underlayment, flashing, drainage, and electrical junctions. Because solar roof tiles replace or act as the roof’s outer surface, they must meet both roofing and PV performance standards (weather sealing, wind uplift resistance, fire rating, impact resistance, etc.). In short: solar roof tiles combine the functions of a roof and a solar generator into one integrated system, rather than layering panels on top of a roof.

Yes. ICON’s performance and durability extend to snowy and cold environments. The roof system is sealed and vented to handle all climates.

It replaces both your roof and solar panels — combining two investments into one. In many cases, it costs less than doing both separately.

Yes. Because ICON is a solar roofing system, the roofing component can also qualify under the solar tax credit, unlike traditional roofs.

Yes. ICON is tested and approved for installation in HVHZ regions, including Miami-Dade County. It meets strict uplift resistance standards, impact ratings, and weather-sealing criteria required for hurricane-prone areas. ICON is positioned as HVHZ-capable and references Florida code acceptance (including FL46604 / CERus documentation) with supporting test and evaluation artifacts listed on its certifications page. For homeowners, that means the solar is integrated into a roof assembly designed for high-wind detailing—no raised racks or rails changing the roofline. Always confirm the exact approved configuration for your jurisdiction and installer scope.

ICON holds a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating for roofing systems. It means ICON is tested to resist severe fire exposure, including flame spread, ignition, and ember penetration.

Concrete tiles like ICON are significantly more impact-resistant and wind-stable than asphalt shingles. While shingles may tear or lift, ICON’s interlocked concrete system remains intact under stress.

Yes. ICON uses MC4 plug-and-play connectors with built-in waterproof seals. All cabling is routed beneath the tiles, keeping components shielded from water intrusion and UV exposure.

ICON is engineered with structural robustness suitable for full-roof installation. The system uses a concrete substrate (similar to flat-slate-style concrete tile) combined with encapsulated solar cells. Its design is tested for wind uplift (up to 180 mph), fire resistance (Class A rating), and impact resistance. ICON tiles have been tested under UL 2218 Class 3 or higher impact ratings, meaning they can withstand hail impacts up to 1.75 inches and flying debris typically encountered during hurricanes. The integrated roofing material is built to last decades under normal environmental stress, and the photovoltaic portion is backed by performance warranties (e.g. 25 years typical in the industry). Because the tile and solar are unified, there are fewer interfaces or separations that can degrade over time.

ICON is built as part of the roof structure, not as an add-on. The solar cells are embedded flush within the concrete tiles. The electrical connections are routed internally, and no visible racks, rails, or mounting hardware are required on the exterior. As a result, the roof surface presents a uniform tile appearance with integrated solar function rather than panels mounted above.