Many homeowners have climate concerns that are intensifying yearly, and with this has come an urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources. Fortunately, manufacturers are actively pursuing innovative, eco-friendly solutions, such as solar panels.
Solar panels have gained popularity as more individuals seek to utilize natural energy and decrease carbon emissions. In places like New Jersey, many homeowners are considering installing solar panels on their roofs, but worry about the potential damage they’ll cause.
It’s important to understand the risks associated with installing solar panels and how to prevent them, which is why we’ve written this blog post so that you can learn whether or not solar panels are a good idea for your home.
A Brief Overview Of Solar Panels
Solar panels are devices that help produce electricity by using visible and infrared light from the sun. They are usually flat and quite large, with what are known as cells arranged in a pattern and mounted to the frame. When installed on a roof, they are tilted in the direction of the sun in order to get the most energy possible. To make sure they stay in place and don’t let water in, they also utilize special hardware and sealants.
Types Of Solar Panels
There are two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient, but also more expensive, while polycrystalline panels are less efficient but more affordable. Both types can be installed on residential roofs, but the installation process and potential risks may vary slightly.
Will Solar Panels Damage My Roof?
The following are some issues that can occur when you install solar panels on your roof, especially if they aren’t installed properly.
Holes and Leaks
To secure the mounting system in place for the solar panels to rest on, holes must be drilled into your roof. If these holes are not properly sealed water will easily be able to leak through the roof and damage the interior of your home.
Increased Weight
Solar panels are heavy, and their weight can put additional stress on not only the roofing material but the rafters and trusses too. If you do not properly account for the additional weight that solar panels will add to your roof and don’t make the necessary structural adjustments, roof sagging or collapse may occur.
Roof Age and Condition
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has existing damage, the installation process can exacerbate these issues and lead to further problems.
Warranty Issues:
If you have warranties on your current roofing materials, you may want to check with the manufacturer prior to solar panel installation to ensure that you’re not voiding them.
Uneven Roof Wear
Parts of the roof under the solar panels might erode differently compared to parts of the roof that are exposed to the elements more, potentially leading to uneven wear and aesthetic concerns.
How To Ensure That You Install Solar Panels Correctly
There are risks associated with installing solar panels on a residential roof, however, if you take care of some things prior to deciding on solar panels, then you may find great value in this choice. Here are some of the ways you can avoid damage:
Hire a Professional Roofing Company
Choose a reputable and experienced solar installation company that also specializes in roofing. Often, homeowners don’t know the current condition of their roof, and its capacity to handle additional installations. Many decide to install solar panels, skylights, or other components without consulting a professional first, which frequently leads to concerning outcomes.
An experienced roofer can more accurately assess the condition of your roof. Such experts are also skilled at identifying hidden problems and can perform necessary repairs or reinforcements before installing solar panels. This proactive approach ensures your roof is well-prepared to support new installations without issue.
Also Read: Top 5 Roofing Companies In Montclair, NJ
Obtain The Necessary Permits
Before you install solar panels, you will need to make sure that you obtain the necessary permits from your local government. This process can be complicated, but a professional company will be able to assist you in navigating the process and ensure that everything is up to code and regulation. By doing so, you will be able to ensure that your solar panel installation is safe and legal.
Practice Regular Maintenance
After the solar panels are installed, it will be crucial to have your solar panel system and roof inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear. This will help catch potential issues early and prevent more significant problems from developing.
Installing A New Roofing System
If you choose to install solar panels on your roof, it is important to ensure that the roof is in good condition. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be wise to replace it before you install solar panels. By doing so, you can ensure a solid foundation for the panel mounting system and extend the life of your new roof.
This will not only improve the overall durability of your roofing system, but also help to maximize the benefits of your solar panels in the long run.
What About Solar Shingles?
Solar panels are exciting and innovative, but there are alternatives too. One option that has gained popularity over the last few years is solar shingles. Now, what is the difference between solar shingles and solar panels?
While solar panels are installed on top of existing roofing material, solar shingles are designed to replace traditional roofing shingles. They are essentially shingles that have photovoltaic cells incorporated into their design, which can generate electricity when sunlight falls on them. This makes them a great option for homeowners who want to generate electricity from their roofs without wanting bulky solar panels. Moreover, solar shingles are aesthetically pleasing, as they blend in seamlessly with the rest of the roof.
On the other hand, there are certain limitations too. Solar shingles are very new in the industry and are not as trusted yet as solar panels. These shingles are also significantly more expensive than regular roofing shingles, and sometimes, traditional solar panels too.
Work With The Best Roofing Company For Solar Panel Removal And Reinstallation
Regardless of the precautions you take, if you’ve found that solar panels have damaged your roof, our team at Northkit Roofing is ready to offer our help. We offer the best solar panel removal and reinstallation services near Cedar Grove and the surrounding areas of New Jersey. We will remove your existing solar panels to make the necessary repairs or necessary replacements, then reinstall them without any damage.
Contact us today at (973) 396-7416 to learn more about how we can help you.
