Four Signs Your Roof Can Handle Solar Panels

Homeowners can provide a quick self-evaluation of their roof but it is always better to call in the professionals for an official inspection and decision before committing to this project. These experienced technicians may have recommendations to help get your roof ready for panels in the event that it is not eligible at the start or needs some work before it can be used as a reliable platform for this system.

The first thing to consider is how much sun your roof gets throughout the day the majority of time and from which direction the sun shines from. Are there tree limbs that block and hang over the roof? Do the largest sides (most square footage) of the roof face east/west or north/south? The amount of sun that the panels can absorb during the day will directly impact the number of panels needed and their efficiency. Any blockages that can be trimmed or cut away to increase the sunlight amount should be taken care of prior to the installation. This will also minimize potential damage to the panels once they are in place.

Another factor to consider is the condition of the roof. The best roofing contractors in Bakersfield CA can perform a complimentary inspection to determine if it is solid enough to withstand the weight of the solar panels or if there are any issues that need to be addressed first. Damage, dry rot, loose shingles, etc. will negatively affect the installation and even prevent it altogether. If the roof is older in age then it is a good idea to replace it completely before installing the solar energy system.

From a financial perspective, it will cost more to put the panels on, remove them, replace the roof and then re-install after and it requires more time and extra visits from the company. Spacing is another consideration which varies depending on the style and shape of the roof. For the panels to be a cost-efficient source of energy in your home, there has to be enough room to install the right number based on your current usage. There may be alternative solutions to help adjust to your particular roof design which the experts in solar energy in Bakersfield CA can help with during their onsite visit.

Solar panels are quickly becoming a popular energy option because of the eco-friendly approach, long-term investment and incentives provided by the government and/or insurance companies. Homeowners like the idea of being independent from the electric grid and having power even when this grid goes down during inclement weather conditions. However, the right foundation is important to the success of the system so make sure that your roof meets all the requirements by partnering with a reliable roof contractor in the area that also specializes in solar panel installation. This way the technician can provide the evaluation and solution in one visit and get you started on the road towards financial and energy independence where you get to decide how much to pay and help the environment become a cleaner place to live.

Making the decision to invest in a solar energy system for your home or business is based on several factors like cost, savings, environment effects and convenience.