Solar panels are a great way to save on energy costs. Many homeowners who install solar panels choose to put them on their roof to save space and reduce the visual impact of the panels. Before the panels are installed, the roof must be inspected to determine if it is strong enough to hold the weight of the tiles and viable enough to resist leaking once they are in place.
If you are considering solar panel installation for your roof, you should have the following factors in mind:
Types of Roofing Materials Certain types of roofing materials are better than others when it comes to supporting heavy weight. Steel panel, asphalt shingles and rubber are better-suited for supporting the weight of the solar panels and are less likely to leak over time. Cedar plank shingles, clay tile and metal shingles will have difficulty bearing the weight and maintaining their shape if solar panels are installed.
The Age The age of the roof will also play a role. Asphalt shingles that are worn and damaged should be replaced prior to the installation of solar panels or any other object. Worn shingles will crack and break easily causing leaks and weakening the structure of the roof and possibly the home.
Overall Condition The overall condition of the roof must be considered prior to the installation of solar panels. The roofs of older homes may not have the structural viability to support the weight of the solar panels. It is important to look past the shingles when checking the condition of the roof. The structure of the roof must also be checked from the inside to ensure there are no broken or damaged boards that could fail once the panels are in place.
Requirements and Parameters Before installing solar panels, you must determine if it will indeed serve the desired purpose for your house or not. You should also consider your roof alignment, its layout, and the amount of unobstructed sunlight it gets throughout the year. If all your required criteria are not met, it will defeat the purpose of a solar panel installation altogether.
Determine the Consumption Rate A quick review of your electricity bills will let you know exactly how much power you consume. In case the utilization is less, a small-sized solar system would be sufficient and vice versa. Create a solar harnessing plan on the basis of your electrical consumption. Also, estimate the required number of panels to meet your overall daily, monthly, or yearly electricity consumption.
Warranty Details Make sure you procure your solar panels from a reliable supplier as you can be assured of long-term performance and quality service without excessive troubles and down the road. Always go for a solar panel installation that is guaranteed under a warranty period to be sure you are covered in case of any breakdown or concerns with the solar panels.
As you explore solar panel for your home, consider these factors before settling for the most suitable one.
Also Read: What You Must Know About Solar Roof Shingles
