You've made excellent points. Thank you for pointing this out. There are numerous complaints on the web about these DYI solar systems. The materials they talk about aren't available at your local hardware stores either, and as you pointed out, it will take you a long time to make them. Installlation, too, is not as simple as slapping them on a roof. To get the most out of any panel, home made or not, they should be oriented and installed correctly. Also, keep in mind all of the rebates you get now when it's professinally and efficiently done. Oh yeah, and most manufactured panels are guaranteed for at least 20 years, but typically go for 30 plus. I say this because I love solar and what it can do now for the planet. It's affordable and you can get a free quote from a local installer, so there's nothing to lose to see how much it will cost you and save you over the 20-25 year warrenty period. And by the way, panel prices are now down to 2 bucks/watt--wholesale. So, unless you're a real hobbyist, if you want to go solar, just get it done right. You can read a lot about solar and its costs, as well as get a quote from www.solarpowerrocks.com. Thanks again for questioning these kits. They really do promise much less than they deliver. Solar Fred.