More and more people in the United States are beginning to invest in solar power systems. Solar panels are being installed on their rooftops, and why not?! Solar power technology has advanced dramatically in recent years, with many of these improvements helping to reduce the cost of the equipment needed. Installing solar panels on your roof is another great method to create electricity for your home or your company while reducing your environmental impact and energy bills. Interested in the new age of electricity? Get an appointment with an Anderson solar panel installation specialist!
Yet, there are a few things to think about before you go full solar and begin the installation process. Understanding the various aspects that go into a project like this is crucial, and looking into common solar panel truths and lies is also a smart idea. We’ve put together key questions and answers your will need to know before installing those rooftop solar panels. Keep reading!
Is Your Roof Too Old?
If your roof is towards the end of its usable life or if the roof’s life expectancy is shorter than that of the solar panels, you should replace it before going solar. As solar panels must be removed, replacing or repairing your roof after they have been placed can be rather costly. If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your roof, contact a roofing team to run an inspection!
How Much Weight Can Your Roof Support?
Evidently, one of the first things you’ll want to figure out before settling on solar panels is your budget. If your current roof can’t bear the weight, you’re in for a higher bill. Solar panels typically weigh 2-4 pounds per square foot, which is normally within your roof’s allowed limits.
However, because installers seek to reduce the number of roof penetrations, the weight is generally concentrated, and these point loads can be large. Before adding too much to your roof structure, be sure your solar mounting plan is engineered or consult a structural expert.
How Will The Solar Panels Be Installed on the Roof?
There are a number of flashings and mounts available depending on the sort of roof you have. The cost of installation might be extremely high if your roof is particularly steep or if you have a unique roof covering such as slate or tile. Regardless of the type of roof, your installer will want to keep the number of penetrations to a minimum to reduce the risk of roof leaks.
Most solar mounts for sloped roofs go through the roof and secure themselves to the rafters or purlins below. Solar mounts for metal roofs normally clamp to the seams rather than penetrating the roof. Flat roof mounts could simply be weighted racks that rest on top of the roof. Make sure to know the exact type of your roof and discuss the available options with your contractor.
What Will Happen to the Water?
Water can do a lot of damage, so be aware! Water tends to travel down the roof, down the gutters, and out and away from your property when it rains, and equipment like racking and wiring harnesses might stop water from flowing and be effectively drained when installing solar panels. In some cases, solar equipment can cause water to flow in the wrong direction, causing leaks and other roofing issues. These issues will need to be addressed, which will need the removal of the solar panels.
To avoid any of these problems, make sure the contractor is aware of your worries and queries. They’ll be able to provide you with a plan that proves the installation will have no negative influence on water runoff and your home in the long run.
Do Solar Panels Affect Roof Warranties?
Always the best option is to consult first your original roofer contractor and ask them to coordinate with your solar roof contractor as sometimes new penetrations can violate your roofing system’s warranty, therefore make sure your installer offers their warranty or hires a third-party roofing business to flash the new penetrations or examine the installation thoroughly.
Contact Anderson Metal Roofing Today
If your roof isn’t positioned correctly toward the sun, your panels won’t be able to capture enough light and energy. You must efficiently power up your home in order to produce the appropriate amount of energy. Generally, residences with roofs that face south or west are the greatest for solar electricity. Do you require assistance in inspecting your solar panel installation? You can contact our Anderson roofing contractors at any time, make an appointment with us!
