What You Need To Know Before Installing Rooftop Solar Panels

Solar panels offer users a chance to convert solar energy into electricity for use. As more Americans begin to adopt the idea of alternative power sources, solar panels have become a common sight on rooftops of homes and businesses. Solar panels offer users a chance to convert solar energy into electricity for use. Solar energy is both clean and recyclable, thus making it environmentally friendly. In light of the increasing number of households and businesses using solar panels to generate energy, it has become important to know as much as possible about solar panels’ advantages and disadvantages, as well as what they offer in terms of value. America’s Choice Roofing has provided the most important information you should know before making this decision.

Do You Need To Repair Your Roof?

Solar panels are not a substitute for existing roofing problems. If anything, solar panel installation on compromised roofs can lead to more expensive damages. Before considering solar panel installation, make sure to contact your roofing company first. Your roofing company should be able to recommend roof repairs or replacements based on the outcome of their inspection. If you do not wish to spend money on roof inspection, consider the age of your roof, the prevalence of roof issues, how often you’ve had to repair your roof, roof leaks, and other issues.

You should also consider the age of your roof and its warranty period to that of your solar panels. If your roof has a 10 to 15 years warranty, you may need to spend much more on maintenance if the solar panel comes with a 20-year warranty. It is best to make sure that the warranty on your roof exceeds that of your solar panel.

How is Your Roof Shaped?

The shape of your roof matters when it comes to the efficiency of your solar panels. Solar panels are best installed on sloped roofs. Also, you need to consider the size of available space for the solar panel installation. The larger the space on your roof, the more solar panels you can install for energy generation.

What is the Direction of Your Roof’s Slope?

The direction of the roof’s slope matters greatly, especially when considering solar panel installation. Solar panels require specific placements to ensure effective results. Installers often look for areas where your solar panel will be exposed to more radiant sunlight, thus generating more energy for your home. It is best to have installers inspect your home’s roof ahead of the installation process so that you are aware of the best installation position and how many panels it supports.

How Much Load Can Your Roof Handle?

There are different types of roofing materials, and each one has a different weight it can bear. In addition to the roofing material, the health of your roof can also determine the weight it can handle. Overloading your roof with too much weight can both damage the roof and the solar panels. Be sure that your roof can withstand the weight of the solar panels you are installing. Make sure that solar panels are only installed on healthy and strong roofs as a rule of thumb.

How Will You Manage Rainwater and Snow?

When it rains, your roof channels rainwater into the gutters, which then takes the water away from home. When installing your solar panel, certain equipment may prevent the free flow of water away from your roof. You should consider this problem and address it appropriately before the solar panels are installed. Not addressing this problem can lead to other issues, including leaks, roof rot, and more. Addressing this problem will mean removing the solar panels and repairing the affected areas – this can be expensive.

What Happens in Severe Weather?

Severe weather is one of nature’s surprises. When installing your solar panel, you need to make sure that weather hazards like snowstorms are considered. You should speak to your installer on the measures that are put in place to protect your roof and the solar panels from the effects of severe weather. You should also consider the maintenance needs of your solar panel, especially after extreme weather events.

How Do You Connect to the Power Grid?

If you have sorted every other part of the installation process, including the health and slope of your roof, you also need to consider how to connect to the power grid. Connecting to the local grid offers you a wide range of advantages. However, the important questions that need answers include;

• How long will it take to get your system hooked up?
• Do you need to pay any fees to get connected to the local utility?
• When and how will you be credited for the electricity generated?