Solar panels can be an exceptional investment for your home.
Not only are you generating electricity without having to burn fuel, but you may have the ability to sell your excess energy back to the grid, allowing other people to use it and netting yourself a pretty penny.
However, when they are pitching solar panels to you, not all roofing companies will detail how the new solar panels can affect the roof, and why it is very important to ensure your roof is in good condition before you start.
Let us tell you how your new panels and your roof should work together.
When your solar panel installer is on the roof, they will be relying on its integrity to stay safe, and serious problems with the roof can cause safety issues for them.
Plus, once the panels are installed, you will need to have them removed temporarily in order to get a new roof or to complete roof repairs near them. This obviously adds to the time and expense of your roofing work. So, it’s always best to ensure that your roof is in excellent condition before you give the go-ahead on the solar panel installation.
How do you ensure your roof is ready? Let the experts perform a roof inspection.
They look for obvious signs of damage and leaks and also assess the overall condition of your current shingles. A roof inspection involves:
Even if your current roof is in good condition, you should also have a chat with your roofer about its age.
If your roof is so old that it may need to be replaced in the next year or two, it may be worthwhile to get this replacement done now so that you save yourself the hassle of handling a replacement with solar panels on the roof. Sometimes installing panels on very old roofs can cause damage that needs repair itself, so it is better to work on a newer roof.
When installing a new roof, choose carefully. According to Consumer Reports, you should seek to install a roof that will last as long as the solar panels. This way, the roof should not require service until both need replacement, which is ideal to avoid fuss.
If you routinely experience gutter or ice dam issues in the winter, it is best to address the underlying problems causing them, like improper installation and ventilation. Otherwise, these issues may damage the solar panels.
Solar paneling can save you money in the long run and contributes to green living. There are a lot of boxes to check before moving forward, which is why it’s imperative to seek the expertise of seasoned roofing professional.
When we say that we’re a top-quality home remodeling and roofing company that serves the North Shore and surrounding Chicagoland area, we back it up. We do more than simply cover the basics: we show up on time and nail it. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 847-768-6000 or visit our contact page.