Is Your Residential Roof Ready for Solar Panels?
Heat levels are rising every year and cooling down your home can be very expensive, especially if you rely on air conditioners. The best way to mitigate the cost is to harness sunlight and turn it into something you can benefit from.
You can do this by getting solar panels, which convert solar energy into electricity, which you can use to power your HVAC system while minimizing the costs.
The question is, is your roof ready for solar panels? Make sure you take a look at your residential roof to see how you can proceed with this project.
How to Know if Your Residential Roof is Solar Panel-Ready
You Get Lots of Sun
The first thing you need to consider is the location of your property. Because you will be using sunlight as a renewable energy source, you need to get lots of sun throughout the year. Florida residents surely enjoy a favorable climate for this type of project.
You do not need to worry about losing electricity during rainy or cloudy days. Remember, your solar energy system will store excess power so you can use it when needed.
One thing you need to know is that your panels should directly receive sunlight. This is why you need to make sure that it will not be shaded by trees. Be ready to trim surrounding trees on your property to maximize your solar panels.
Check If It is Made with Compatible Materials
You might think that the main problem with solar panels is installing them. However, you should remember that your roof needs to be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the system. The good news is that most materials can bear the heft of these panels.
The thing is, it is inadvisable to install solar systems if you have slate and wood roofs because they can break under the weight. Wood roofs are also combustible, especially when placed under direct sunlight and exposed to heat generated both by the sun and the panels.
The best materials for solar panels include asphalt, metal, and tiles. Make sure that your roof shape offers optimal sun exposure.
Note the Age of Your Roof
Another thing you should consider is the age of your roof. You want to make sure that it is within the optimal range to minimize hazards. Typically, your residential roof should be under ten years old.
You might also want to check when the next servicing is due. This way, you know whether it is in good condition for installation.
If your roof is made of unsuitable materials like wood or if it is damaged and has an incompatible shape, you should consider getting a roof replacement.
The Bottom Line
You can save money in the long run if you switch to a solar panel system. With these tips, you can find out if your residential roof is ready for solar panels. Want a more reliable source of info for wiser decisions? Make sure to call a trusted roofer and have them check the integrity and suitability of your roof.