CertainTeed Construction Success Manager John Hardwick Trains Weddle & Sons on Their First Solstice® Solar Shingle Installation
As roof-integrated solar systems continue to grow in popularity, Weddle & Sons Roofing is proud to take an important step forward with our first installation of the CertainTeed Solstice® Solar Shingle. This project marks a key part of our ongoing commitment to bringing modern solar technology to the homeowners we serve. As more clients look for efficient, attractive solar solutions, we are expanding our capabilities to offer roofing and solar options that work together seamlessly.
To support this effort, we welcomed CertainTeed’s Construction Success Manager, John Hardwick, who provided hands-on, on-site training to guide our crew through the installation process.
Hardwick works directly with contractors across the country to help them launch the Solstice® system successfully, ensuring every detail is handled with precision. His visit ensured our team received expert guidance from start to finish.
On-Site Training to Support a Flawless First Install
CertainTeed offers on-the-job training for every contractor’s first Solstice® installation, and Hardwick was on the roof with us throughout the project. His instruction covered part counts, layout, installation sequencing, and exact placement of each component.
“We’re here to make sure everything goes smoothly,” Hardwick explained. “From counting parts to layout to installation, we guide the team down to the millimeter to make sure everything goes in perfectly.”
Accuracy is essential because the Solstice® system serves both as a protective roofing material and as a solar energy generator. Installed correctly, it acts as the home’s first line of defense against wind, rain, fire, and ice while producing electricity for the household.
What Sets the Solstice® Solar Shingle Apart
Hardwick noted that the Solstice® Solar Shingle was engineered so roofing contractors can install both the roofing system and the solar components without relying on the traditional metal frames or racking used in standard solar panel installations.
Each shingle produces 70 watts of power, fits a wide range of roof designs, and provides a low-profile, architectural appearance similar to traditional asphalt shingles. For homeowners looking for clean energy without the bulk of rack-mounted solar panels, this system delivers both functionality and curb appeal.
A Simplified Solar Installation Process
Traditional solar installations often involve dozens of steps, including locating rafters, installing flashings, cutting rails, grounding components, and adding critter guards. Hardwick explained that CertainTeed has streamlined the process significantly.
“What used to be a 50-step process is now about 15 steps,” he said. “We’ve removed the traditional metal framing and racking to make solar easier for established roofers and electricians.”
This simplified approach reduces installation time, minimizes penetrations in the roof deck, and allows roofing and solar to be built together as a unified system.
A Significant Milestone in Weddle & Sons' Solar Expansion
As we continue to expand in this space, the Solstice® system represents an important way for us to offer clients a roofing solution that combines durability, energy production, and a clean, integrated design. We look forward to bringing more solar options to our customers as we continue investing in training, technology, and innovative roofing systems.