Preparing a Roof for Solar Panels
If you’re planning on installing solar panels on your roof, there are several things you need to consider. The most important thing is making sure your roof is suitable for installation and is in good condition and structurally sound.
After you have determined that your roof is suitable for solar panel installation, there are several steps you can take to prepare it. These include evaluating your roof's efficiency, choosing the right solar panels, and finding a professional installer. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your solar panel installation is successful and that you get the most out of your investment.
Evaluating Your Roof’s Suitability
Before you install solar panels it is important to evaluate the suitability of your roof. This will involve assessing the current condition of your roof, checking its orientation and measuring the available space you have for panels.
If you’re unsure on any of these then you should speak with a licensed solar installation company. They will review all of this information when they provide you with a formal estimate to install solar. They will also take into account your total usage letting them know exactly how many panels you need.
Assessing Roof Condition
It's important to ensure that your roof is in good condition before you install solar panels. Any damage to the roof can cause leaks and other problems, which can be costly to repair.
Think of your roof as the foundation of the installation. If you don’t have a durable enough base then the installation will be a challenge and it may not last as long as you would have hoped.
Here are some things to look for when checking your roof:
- Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks or missing shingles
- Look for any areas where the roof is sagging or uneven
- Check for any signs of rot or decay
- Ensure that the roof is structurally sound and can support the weight of the panels
If you’re unsure of the above, an expert will be able to inspect your roof to check for any potential hazards or weak points that should be addressed before installation.
Not Sure If Your Roof Can Handle Solar?
Talk to the team at Peninsula Solar today to learn how we can help you check your roof condition and even get a 30% tax break to cover installation costs!
Checking Roof Orientation
The orientation of the roof is also an important factor to consider. It’s not a major issue but a well equipped installer will make sure you get the most return-on-investment with your solar panels.
However, to get the best results out of your panels you will want to have your panels facing a southern direction as much as possible. In the northern hemisphere the sun is always in the southern half of the sky making this direction the best one.
Measuring Roof Space
It’s important to measure the available space on your roof to determine how many solar panels you can install.
You’ll want to measure the length and width of the area you want panels installed on and multiply them to get the full square footage. You’ll want to avoid any obstructions, such as a chimney, that may limit available space.
A solar contractor can help you figure out the best placement and total number of panels you’ll need to cover your usage.
Considerations Before Installing Solar Panels
If you’re working with a solar company then there is likely very little you actually have to take care of when it comes to preparing your roof for installation. You do not need to have a spotless roof to have solar panels installed and most debris will be handled during installation.
However, there are some considerations you should take into account before you go solar:
- If your roof material is already 20-25 years old then you may want to consider replacing your roof before installing solar.
- If you are going to add in additional ventilation, such as a bathroom fan.
- If there is any early stage rotting or degradation of the wood trusses.
- If you have enough insulation and that your roof is properly insulated to improve energy efficiency.
- If it’s the best time of year to install solar. For instance, you can install solar panels in the Winter but it's typically best to do it in Spring or Summer.