If you are interested in residential solar panels, probably the best place to start is at the top.
Rooftop solar power is convenient in large part because it does not take up any property space, using an area of your structure that is probably already exposed to sunlight. But is YOUR roof the best place to install solar panels?
It turns out that solar roofing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition!
While solar panels can be installed on any roof (with proper space and lack of shading), there are several considerations that will affect cost and efficiency of a solar array.
1. Roof composition
The material from which your roof is composed will affect installation of a solar panel system. Generally speaking, it is more expensive to install solar panels on tile or shake roofs because they are delicate and can easily be damaged. When professional installers walk across the tiles or shingles, they may break or crack. The additional repair cost and/or insurance may add to the price.
2. Roof pitch
Very steep roofs also pose a challenge for solar panel installation. Not only because of the dangerous conditions, but also because special equipment may be required. On the other hand, flat rooftops require positioning solar panels at the proper angle, which may necessitate additional hardware, increasing the cost.
3. Roof Age
If you have an older roof that will need replacement soon, that will be part of the consideration for solar panels. The panels themselves can help extend the life of the areas of the roof they cover, but they are not themselves a replacement for a new roof. You may want to consider solar power roof tiles, also known as building integrated photovolatics (PV).
Keep in mind that rooftop solar power requires an attachment of the brackets and bolting mounts to your roof before installing rails and panels. Here are the steps for installing solar panels on your roof.
