Does Installing Solar Panels Damage Your Roof

Will Your Roof Get Damaged From Solar Panels

Your roof wont get damaged as long as it is in good condition and can handle the weight of the panels. Fortunately, most of todays roofs can bear the added load of solar panels, and it wouldnt take your contractor long to install them.

There are a couple of factors you must consider before investing in solar roofing. One of them is the age of your existing roof. This part of your home naturally deteriorates as it ages. You must address any damage and get rid of the debris before having solar panels installed. Its also vital that your roof is the ideal size of the solar panels. You can make the most of your solar panels if they are facing west or south because they will receive a significant amount of sunlight.

Are Solar Panels Good For Your Roof

Many people worry about the damage their roof will suffer in the process of solar panel installations. But do they need to worry about the imaginary holes drilled into their roof?Brackets or solar shingles used to install solar panels, make the installation process effortless. Solar panels do not merely keep your electricity bill low, but they also come with some added benefits.

A cooler house

In addition to absorbing the suns rays, solar panels also reflect those rays and provide a break to thermal energy. The roofs covered by solar panels show an average drop of 5 degrees, keeping your cooling bill even lower.

Cost-effective

Once installed, the solar panels dont require much maintenance. They equally protect your roof from different weather conditions, making it cost-effective and helping you save money on roof repairs. Since installation rarely needs drilling, one saves enough money on further restoration of the attic in case of water leaks. The panels act as a shield for the roof, reducing weather-related damages and increasing its life.

Do You Really Save Money With Solar Panels

Solar panels and solar panel systems will save you money and bring back your investment in an instant. Growing property value, reduced utility costs and a federal tax credit ease the cost of installing solar panels in advance.

How long does it take for solar panels to pay for themselves?

If you are at home all day, you will need less time to get your money back. You will reimburse the cost of installation on average between 11 and 13 years, depending on where you live. For comparison, if youre home only in the evening, its between 22 and 27 years old. This is all about how much electricity you consume.

Why is my electric bill so high with solar panels?

Solar energy systems are limited resources they can only produce as much energy according to the size of the system, and most utilities limit the size of the system to the historical average energy consumption on site.

Also Check: How To Repair A Trailer Roof

Installation Procedures On Rooftop Pv Systems

There are two main types of installation procedures on rooftops for PV systems.

The first and most common for commercial applications is the ballasted footing mount system. This applies for commercial buildings or even some households that have a flat roof. This is the most ideal combination between roof and ground-mounted systems, because the PV system is able to combine the advantages of ground-mounted systems with those of rooftop systems.

Basically, it consists of pre-cast concrete blocks or steel structures anchored to the roof that can be placed on any position and angle. Generally, these flat roofs are made of concrete, so the engineers can ensure that the roof withstands the weight of the solar panels and the ballasted mounting system. You can take a look at an innovative flat roof mounting system design here.

Ballasted mounting system with concrete blocks

The second option, most common for residential US households is the sloped rooftop mounting. This option can be divided into several installation procedures:

Rail-Less Mounting Systems: This system does not use any rails to attach the modules to the sloped roof. Instead, it directly uses screws and bolts to attach the solar panels to the tiles. This type of system is less frequent now because it involves more penetrations to your roof, installation times are slow, and it can damage a tile by lifting it up with the force of the wind.

Rail-less PV system

Also Check: How Much Does It Cost To Have Solar Panels Cleaned

What Happens When You Remove Solar Panels

Does removing solar panels damage the roof? The process of removing the solar panel can be dangerous and cause damage to the roof if licensed professionals do not do it properly. However, if they are improperly installed by an unauthorized installer or the roof is not in a proper condition to support the solar panels, damage may occur which may void someones roof warranty.

Also Check: Travel Trailer Roof Repair Kits

Weight Problems: Cracks And Collapse

Probably this is the number one concern when installing solar panels. Are the panels going to cause the roof to collapse or crack on the wall in the house?

Solar panels are not going to cause stability problems to the house in more than 90% of the cases, especially if we are talking about residential properties .

Solar panels are only a few centimeters thick and weigh an average of around 13kg/m2 . Each m2 provides approximately a peak power of 150W .

Hence, assuming an installation of 3kW, this implies you need 20 m2 of roof area for a total of 260kg . This is a lot of weight, but distributed over a large area it is not a problem for the majority of roofs.

Is your roof within this majority? Your installer must assess the property including also a deep check of your roof. If your property is not very old there are very high chances that it can withstand the solar panel weight.

However, even in the best conditions, your roof might be affected by drastic weather changes. Not talking about heavy snow but mainly sudden temperature variation. Are you experiencing cold freezing days followed by high temperatures within the next 24 hours? If so, consider reinforcing the roof.

Require Flashing In Wet Area

Conduit penetration flashing is becoming common practice for the majority of roofs with solar panels. Without getting into many details, these are kind of plastic or better metal covers, with a hole in the center where the cable passes through . Flashing is laid out either below or above the shingles and prevents water from getting in through a particular elevation of it.

Here my fourth tip.

To avoid roof damage due to solar panel installation ask the installer whether he is planning a conduit roof flashing for the cable. If the answer is negative, challenge the reason and ask for further explanations before signing any contract.

Don’t Miss: How To Extend A Roof

Work With A Dependable Contractor For Your Solar Panels

To avoid issues related to solar panel installation, make sure to hire an experienced contractor. When not attached correctly, leaks might occur. Skilled professionals also know the right size of panels for your roof. They will evaluate your energy consumption, check the shape and size of your roof, and determine the ideal system for you. Once installed, you must keep your panels clean to keep them efficient.

Turn to Bay Valley Contractors for quality solar roof installation services. We work with leading manufacturers to deliver quality roof replacement and repair services. Call us at 705-7889, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.

Solar Panels Dont Damage Your Roof When Installed Properly

Just like any home improvement project, using the right service provider is essential to a rooftop solar job. For most homeowners, installing solar panels will not result in roof damage as long as your solar installer is a licensed, qualified professional and your roof is in good condition. If you hear of roof damage occurring because of a solar installation, its likely because the roof was initially in poor condition.

The first step is making sure youre working with a reputable installation company. You can connect with high-quality solar installers is by registering your property on the EnergySage Solar Marketplace. We pre-vet all of our installer partners to ensure that only the best installation companies have the opportunity to provide quotes through our platform. If you are concerned about damage to your roof, you can question your installer of choice about their installation process and measures they take to prevent roof damage using the online messaging center or invite installers out for site visits so they can inspect the roof and answer your questions in person. Its also worth asking any company about their workmanship warranty, and whether or not it covers your roof on the off chance damage occurs.

Read Also: Hydro Stop Roof Coating Cost

Loose Or Missing Shingles

If you ever discover a shingle on your lawn, your chances of dealing with a leaky roof skyrocket. However, it can be replaced and should be done on time.

Remove the nails from the region that needs replacement and drill the new unit right in. therell be an apparent difference, though the new shingle may stand out because it has barely experienced any wear and tear.

Did You Take Advantage Of Rebates

The cost of installing a solar panel system in your home can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $30,000. The good news is many states, cities and solar companies in the United States offer rebates for installing solar panels on your roof. Before your project begins, ask your contractor what options they have and if they dont have any options, they should know of rebates that are offered by the state and city.

Overall, the government really wants to get people interested in investing in solar power. The Department of Energy itself offers as much as 30% in savings through rebates and tax credits. Your local utility and electricity providers might also offer savings.

Don’t Miss: Attic Trusses Cost

Practical Advice To Avoid Roof Damage

I want to be clear. Roof damage due to solar panel installations is virtually always the fault of the installer. As we discussed above, forgetting your local weather conditions, not using the proper material or technique depending on the roof types and age.

However, what a homeowner can do to roof damages due to solar panels? Here you can find some practical suggestions based on the real experience of several homeowners that went through the pain to deal with roof problem installations.

Remember, the majority of installers are honest and hardworking people. I know a few myself. However, there are always those that, either because of distraction, hurry or just to save money, they tend to perform poorly.

1- Take Time-Proofed Recommendations

It happens often to have at least one friend or a neighbor that just installed their solar panels and, full of their enthusiasm, they recommend the same installer.

Hence, to avoid roof damage from the incompetence of bad work, trust only recommendations for installers coming from house owners that have their solar panel in operation for at least 4 years. This will give a time-proof of the quality of the job provided.

Do Solar Panels Cause Roof Problems

As long as solar panels are correctly installed, though, there shouldnt be any damage to the infrastructure or exterior of your roof. Make sure that you only hire licensed, qualified professionals to do the job. Plus, your roof must be in good condition first.

Lets look at how they are installed to understand better where some of the anxiety comes from.

Also Check: How Much Do New Shingles Cost

Preparing Your Roof For Solar Panels

Even before solar panels are installed, you should do a roof inspection to make sure that the roof can support the extra weight. Furthermore, any pooling water, cracks, or damaged shingles need to be taken care of before installing solar panels. Your solar panel installation is not too heavy, but the additional weight demands good support solar panels add approximately 3 lbs of weight per square foot of your roof.

It Wasnt Installed Well

If your technician follows the proper procedures when installing your solar panels, youll have fewer chances of dealing with a leaky roof. However, if they do a hasty or inferior job, it may affect the roofing and sub roofing materials in a way thatll cost you.

A qualified professional will focus on and avoid making costly mistakes.

Read Also: How Much Does A New Shingle Roof Cost

Solar Panels Can Protect Your Roof

Because quality solar panels are resilient in all weather conditions, your new system can protect your roof from the impact of weather and debris. You can think of a solar panel system as an extra layer in weatherproofing your roof against the sun, rain or snow, potentially extending your roofs lifespan by a decade or longer.

Speak with a recommended installer in your local area.Remember to contact a good quality solar panel manufacturer first when looking to discuss your concerns about your homes unique roof.

Inexperienced installers can provide misleading information about what is safe or inadvertently damage your roof during the mounting process. Dont try to install solar panels yourself.

A trusted manufacturer can recommend a professional installer that can come and evaluate your roof at no charge. During the on-site visit, the installer will discuss with you the best way to mount your solar panels, how much it will cost and how the warranty works. The installer can also make recommendations, while providing you with knowledgeable answers about fitting and set-up, financing and incentives, local regulations and technical compliance, and what your warranty covers. For more information on what to expect at this meeting, check out the blog: Choosing the Right Installer for Your Rooftop Solar System.

Why Your Roofs Age Matters

Just because you dont notice any damage at first glance at your roof, it doesnt mean that your roof is ready for a solar panel installation. The age of your roof can play a big role here too.

The lifespan of a roof depends on multiple factors including what it is made from, the climate and environment, and how well it has been maintained.

Many Florida roofs use clay tiles which have a long lifespan of almost 50 years. Shingled roofs often last for 15-20 years. If you live in a harsh climate your roof may have a shorter lifespan.

Why does this matter? Well, as the components of your roof age and wear out, they become vulnerable to cracking, holes, and leaking. An old roof will not be able to carry the added weight of heavy solar panels and might not hold up well when installing racking for your system.

If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it is wise to replace it before installing solar panels.

Donât Miss: Hydrostop Cost Per Square Foot

Read Also: Metal Roof Skylight

How Solar Panels Can Make Your Roof Last Longer

May 18, 2020

Whether youre hoping to decrease your homes carbon footprint or take advantage of a federal solar tax credit, theres never been a better time to consider installing solar panels on the roof of your home.

Using solar panels and clean energy can cut your homes carbon emissions by an amount that would equal burning 5,000 pounds of coal every year. And the suns energy is free! Solar panels not only reduce the carbon footprint, but many homeowners see a dramatic reduction in their monthly energy bill too.

What many homeowners wonder, though, is how these solar panels will affect their roof. Is there more upkeep? Do solar panels damage your roof??

Lets take a look at the difference solar panels can make for your homes roof.

How Long Does A Solar Roof Last

Built to last With a 25-year warranty, solar roof tiles will continue to produce clean energy for your home for decades to come. Solar roof tiles are durable, strong and designed to protect against all weather conditions.

How long does it take for a solar roof to pay for itself?

There are several factors that affect the combined costs and combined benefits of using solar energy. The average time it takes solar panels to pay for themselves is between 6-10 years for most homeowners.

How much does a solar roof cost?

As of November 2021, the average price of solar panels in California is $ 2.82 / W. Therefore, we estimate that a new solar installation would cost you around $ 23,400. We will use Teslas solar roof calculator to see what size system it recommends and how much it estimates the solar roof will cost.

Recommended Reading: Add Overhang To Shed

Next Steps To Reach Your #solargoals

If you need to replace or repair your roof before getting solar panels installed, find an independent contractor in the Owens Corning Contractor Network near you.

Once your roof is in good condition, you can explore the best solar panel options for your home knowing that your roof is ready. SunPower® can help you create a solar plan thats best for your home based on its energy needs, location, roof size, and slope to help you reach your solar goals.

You May Like: Solar Shingles Cost Per Square Foot

Your Roof Value May Increase

If you plan to sell your home or business in the future, a solar installation can be a great help. With more people looking to go green more today than ever before, knowing that a property owner has invested in solar power can be a huge advantage. Your roof that was worth $9000 before may now be worth twice that just because you invested in a solar system.

The bottom line is this Having solar panels installed on your roof not only helps you keep your electric bill down and is safer for the environment, but you can significantly increase your overall home value just from having the installation done. Best of all, with modern installation practices, you no longer have to worry about holes, tears and other damage to your roof.

Guest Author: Tom Masters of Shelton Roofing

Recommended Reading: Shed Eave Overhang