3 Things To Consider For Residential Solar Installation
Solar energy is gaining in popularity as each year passes. Homeowners are able to save money over a period of time by generating free electricity. However, the question you may have is whether this particular form of technology is right for your home, or in particular, your roof. Regardless of whether your home is currently equipped with asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or another form of roofing material, it needs to undergo an inspection before solar panels can be installed. If a residential solar installation is something that you are seriously considering, here are a few things that you need to take into consideration to make sure that your roof is suitable.
Type of Roof
Solar panels need a certain amount of space to be installed on the roof. Ultimately, your roof should be rectangular, wide, and have no chimney or venting. However, if your roof does not meet these specifications, it does not mean that you cannot have solar panels installed, as professionals are trained to work with an assortment of configurations. For instance, metal roofs can work with solar panels because they are durable and have standing seams. Clay tile and asphalt shingles are also ideal for solar panel installation.
Does Your Roof Receive Enough Direct Sun?
Solar energy is unable to be generated if it does not receive power directly from the source. The solar panels must be mounted so that they face the right direction, as this will allow them to receive the most amount of sun. If there are trees in the way that give too much shade, it will minimize the amount of solar energy that the solar panels receive and may end up not being very cost-effective.
Are the Shingles on Your Roof Layered?
If you have an older roof, it may have two layers of asphalt shingles on it. Some homeowners will opt for a second layer of shingles instead of a full replacement of the roof. Unfortunately, this adds additional weight to the home, which could mean that your roof is not strong enough to hold the solar panels up. If your home has metal, clay, or slate roofing, it will generally not have a second overlay. In any event, your roof will undergo an inspection to ensure that the frame and deck is in good shape for the solar panels to be installed.
If you would like to learn more, contact a residential solar installation service in your local area.