Nowadays, solar energy is more popular than ever, and for a good reason. Not only can it reduce your energy bills, but it can also help protect the environment. But, in order to take advantage of solar energy, you must be certain that your roof is up to the challenge. Here are a couple of ways to start preparing your roof before being able to equip it with solar panels.
Inspect Your Roof
First, you need to inspect your roof for any existing damage. That means using binoculars to check for cracked or missing shingles or damaged gutters. You should also take a look inside your attic for potential leaks. Just avoid climbing on your roof, as you might hurt yourself in the process.
It’s important to remember that once you install solar panels, it will be much harder to fix roofing problems. That’s because contractors will often need to remove the panels before undertaking repairs. So always make sure that your roof is in pristine condition prior to installing panels.
Check the Roof’s Orientation
The orientation of your roof will affect the amount of sunlight your solar panels capture. In the Northern Hemisphere, roofs that have a southern facing angle will receive the most amount of sunlight during the day, helping your solar system reach its full potential. In contrast, roofs in the Southern Hemisphere homes will need to have a northern-facing angle to achieve similar results.
Consider a Roof Replacement
Many professionals will recommend that you get a roof replacement before installing solar panels. Doing so will not only ensure that your roof is capable of bearing the weight of solar panels, but it will also guarantee that vital fittings, vents, and antennae are out of the way of your panels. Additionally, getting rid of your old roof means that you are starting fresh with a new one that has no damage or flaws. That will drastically lower the risk of future damage and the need for a replacement.
Get Rid of Nearby Trees
Although trees can shield your home from heat, they can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels by blocking sunlight. As a result, you should remove any nearby trees that cast shadows on your roof. But if you don’t want to do that, try to trim and remove branches that block the sun.
Request Help from a Professional Roofing Contractor
Before you install solar panels, it’s best to discuss the project with a local roofing contractor. They will help prepare your roof by doing a thorough inspection and fixing any problems they come across. Not only that, but a professional roofer can advise you regarding the placement of solar panels for the best sun coverage. Remember that preparation is crucial for a successful solar installation, so be sure to get all the help you can.
