Are you thinking of installing solar panels?
A solar panel installation isn’t only good for the environment, it’s also great for your wallet. Research has shown that installing solar panels can raise your home’s value by $15,000 on average. Coupled with the tax rebates that are available, and you can almost recoup the cost of your system in home value alone.
Not to mention the ROI you’ll enjoy through a massive reduction in your utility bill. That makes it an effective and inexpensive way to reduce energy costs. To save on your electricity bill, find energy plan that is cheaper so you can save money on your utility bills and reduce their overall household expenses.
However, before you can start enjoying the benefits of solar panels, there’s one important factor to consider. And that is your roof.
Continue reading to discover whether your roof is suitable for a solar panel installation.
Size and Lifespan
Is your roof large enough for the size of the solar system you need? Large homes typically need around 1,000 square feet of space for panels, while a smaller home might be able to get away with around 200 square feet.
If are wondering how to install solar panels with very limited roof space, you can also consider mounting them on a frame on the ground if your yard is large enough.
Also, how old is your roof? If you’re due for a roof replacement in a couple of years, you should wait to install your system onto the new roof.
Roof Pitch
The next thing to think about is the slop of your roof. Most types of solar panels operate at optimum efficiency at a slope of 30 to 50 degrees.
If your roof has a pitch within this range, then it will provide the perfect angle for your panels.
However, if your roof is very steeply pitched or very flat, your installer might still be able to design a custom frame that will slant the panels at the right angle for the sun.
Roof Orientation and Shade
Roof orientation and shade is another set of very important factors to think about when installing solar panels. If you request a solar savings estimate from a solar installer, this is one of the key things they might ask you about.
Ideally, your panels should be positioned to face the south if you’re in the northern hemisphere. If you have a shed-style roof that slopes steeply down to the north, or a steep gable roof that runs north to south, this might decrease the efficiency of your panels.
Shade can also be a problem, especially during winter when the sun angle is low. If there are trees casting shade on your roof, you may want to look into having them trimmed.
Roofing Material
Finally, the kind of roofing material you have can also impact a solar panel installation. Metal roofs and asphalt shingle roofs are the easiest for installing solar panels. Clay and slate tiles are a little more tricky.
Wood roofs aren’t best for installing solar panels, and thatch roofs are a complete no-go.
Is Your Roof Right for Installing Solar Panels?
Now that you’re all clued up on what roofs are best for installing solar panels, are you ready to press go on your solar system and start enjoying the advantages of solar panels?
If you want to learn more about solar, or any other topic for that matter, browse our blog for more informative posts.
