Homeowners can save costs on energy bills by exploring alternative energy solutions. One of the most environmentally friendly options available is solar panel installation. Installing solar panels lets you leverage the sun’s energy to generate electricity. This solution can significantly reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and cushion the effect of rising energy costs. Click Here to get started with solar panel installations.
As cost-saving as solar panels can be, they can also be space-saving, especially when you install them on your roofs. Installing solar panels on your roof is beneficial for energy and protection reasons. The solar panels are more exposed to the sun on the roof, while the roof is protected from harmful UV rays. A successful solar panel installation can also prolong your roof’s lifespan.
To get the best of both worlds, homeowners must ensure that their existing roof is in the best condition before the solar panels are installed. Read below to find out how to prepare your roof.
Preparing Your Roof for Solar Panel Installation
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Inspecting your roof for damages and fixing the problem is a great way to kick-start the solar panel installation process. Fixing roofing problems or replacing older roofs enhances the overall experience and reduces future roof repair costs.
Start by contacting a trained professional, whether a structural engineer, architect, or certified building professional, for your roof inspection. You may also be lucky to have hired a solar installation company that offers roofing services. Such companies can inspect your roof and determine problems that require attention.
Fix Roof Problems
A roof inspection assesses the health of your roof and points out the problems that need fixing. The roofer or professional will offer recommendations based on the roof’s health and age. You may be asked to replace older roofs nearing the end of their life or repair minor damages.
Addressing notable problems, whether minor or major, before the solar panel installation will save you a lot of money.
Measure Your Roof
As part of the solar panel installation preparation process, the installers will measure your roof to determine how many panels will go on each side. This information will help with proper installation planning.
Examine External Factors
Homeowners with trees around their property may sometimes face power generation issues from their solar power system. Installers will aim to deliver maximum output and efficiency by recommending tree branch/limb trimming for maximum sunlight exposure.
In addition, tree limbs can be dangerous to the roof and solar panels during heavy winds. Solar installation contractors may recommend actions to protect the installation and roof.
Installation contractors may also recommend raising the panels, depending on the home’s height compared to other buildings.
Relocate Roof Vents, Antennas, and Others
The roof is the primary spot for installations like skylights, roof vents, antennas, satellite dishes, etc. Some of these may need to be relocated, especially if they are in the way of the solar panel installation. This consideration will need to have been handled ahead of the solar panel installation process.
At the end of the five-step process, the solar panel installation contractor can certify that the roof is clean, clear, and ready for the project.
Common Roof Questions Before Solar Panel Installation
Homeowners looking to get the best out of their roofs and solar panels often have some important questions on their minds. Here are answers to some of those key questions.
What Roofing Materials Are Best for Solar Panel Installation?
Solar panels can be installed on various roofing materials, from shingles to metal roofs, slate, and others. However, asphalt shingles and metal roofs are great choices. Most solar panel installers are familiar with these roofing materials, allowing them to work on them faster.
What Roof Type Is Best for Solar Panels
Solar panels are perfect for many roofing styles and designs. You can be sure to get the best outcome whether your roof is a hip, gable, or combination roof. Roofs with skylights, chimneys, and other roofing structures can also enjoy the benefits of solar panels.
What Roof Orientation Is Best for Solar Panel Installation?
Solar panel installers often look for roofs whose sides face the south. This is where the sun rises, thus guaranteeing the most exposure to sunlight during the day.
Do I Need to Replace my Roof Before Solar Panel Installations?
This largely depends on your roof’s age. Younger roofs, less than 10 years old, should be inspected and repaired. Older roofs nearing the end of their useful lives can be replaced to reduce stress and improve overall comfort.
