Keeping Your Roof Save When Going Solar

Because installing solar panels involves placing heavy equipment on your roof, you may be concerned that you’ll damage it in the process. However, actually damaging a roof in the process of installing a solar panel system is extremely rare, and as long as your installers take care with your equipment, (as they should) then you won’t have anything to worry about. Keep reading to learn exactly how they’re installed to keep a peace of mind when the installers come to your home and put panels on your roof.

If Your Roof is Already Deteriorating, Invest in a New One

While getting a brand-new roof while you’re already investing in a brand-new solar system may seem like it’s pushing your financial limits, remember that your solar panel system will last decades. If your roof won’t last decades, as well, you’ll end up having to replace it, which will also involve tearing your panels down and having to reinstall them. It’s unlikely you’ll want to pay to have the same panels installed twice, so it’s best to invest in a new roof now so you don’t end up paying more later.

Proper Installation is Key

Make sure you only have a qualified professional install your solar panel system. Trying to go cheap and get an inexpensive local installer who has never worked with solar panels before is a sure fire way for your panels to be improperly installed, which would increase the chances of damaging your roof.

Don’t be afraid to question your installer as they work. Asking them what measures they’ll take to ensure your roof doesn’t get damaged is perfectly legitimate, and a good installer will be ready to answer them and be willing to put the condition of your roof first.

You can also ask the installer if they have a workmanship warranty, that way, if they damage your roof, you can get the money back to fix it.

How the Panels are Installed

Knowing the process is the best way of making sure it’s done right and easing your mind as the consumer. There are definitely risks to your roof when installing panels, which is why it’s so important to make sure you have installers who know what they’re doing.

Workers do have to drill holes in the roof in order to place the racking that holds up the solar panels, which is typically the biggest reason people are so nervous about their roof when installing solar panels. The holes themselves will have lag bolts placed in them, which are great for withstanding harsh weather and will keep your panels firmly in place no matter what the environmental conditions. The hole will then be surrounded by flashing, which will keep out any water by placing a metal or plastic shield around it. On top of that, sealant will be placed to further protect your roof from water damage.

If you’re worried about the weight of the panels, don’t be. Roofs are already designed prepared to handle far more weight than those of solar panels. And snow will slide right off because of the angle in which solar panels are placed.

What if You Don’t Want Holes in Your Roof at All?

If the very concept of having holes in your roof is the least ideal situation for you, there are ways around it. Solar shingles are making huge waves right now, and installing those would mean your roof itself is your solar panel system. The technology still hasn’t reached the levels of traditional solar panels, but if aesthetics matter more to you, then they may be the way to go.

If your roof is flat instead of tilted at an angle, a ballast mounting system will be used, instead. Ballast mounting systems are weighted, meaning no holes need to be place at all.

You could also get ground solar panels, avoiding your roof entirely. Or you could become part of a community solar program, meaning you’d get your solar from a distance.

Want to learn more tips and tricks for going solar? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

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