Are Solar Panels Bad For Your Roof?
Jun 22, 2021
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This is a question many ask as they consider installing solar energy; one of the main concerns is if the installation process leaves holes and leaks after installation.Most people are adapting to using solar panels and slowly phasing out electricity in households. They are so common, and if you lack one, you surely know of someone who has them. The main drive towards the solar revolution is it is cheaper and eco-friendly.
Solar panels damage roofs if the installation is wrong. Consider these two basic ways of solar installation:
1 Traditional Installation
Traditional solar panel installation involves securing the solar panels using bolts, nails, and straps. During the process, you need a hammer or a drilling machine to make holes through your roof. You then pass the bolts through, attaching the top and the solar panels.
This is not a DIY task, as you need to get experts to do the job. Problems start when you make large holes; when it rains, water seeps through these holes, causing leaks in the ceiling.
There is also the risk of damaging the roof structure when making the holes. For example, as you hammer your nails, you have to use force that damages the roof's surface. Some of these damages might not be covered by the roof or the solar panels' warranty.
Just as the name suggests, this is an old fashion way of doing this, and many experts do not recommend it.
2 Solar Stack Technology
Solar stack technology is the other method that most prefer. This is because there is no need to make any penetrations on the roof. After installation, the top is just as it was before.
It involves securing the panels in a streamlined design, ensuring that they sit together as they support each other. Most companies use this method as their primary way of installation. The whole system ends up protecting your roof from harsh weather conditions.
How Can Solar Panels Ruin Your Roof?
If installed wrongly, the solar panels have two main disadvantages. They are;
They can make the roof collapse.
Improper installation might leave the panels exerting more pressure on one side of the roof. If you do not fix the situation, the top slowly starts to crumble, eventually collapsing. The result is property damage.
Also, ensure you assess your roof and determine how much weight it can hold. Proper installation of panels exerting more pressure can also make the roof collapse.
Cause leaks in the ceiling.
This disadvantage applies to those who opt for the traditional method of installation.
Do Solar Panels Benefit My Roof In Any Way?
Proper installation of solar panels helps your roof in the following ways:
- Solar panels protect your roof against harsh weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy rains.
- They prevent direct sunlight from reaching the roof, providing a calm environment during hot days.
- Solar panels also keep the roof cool. There are air pockets in the region separating the panels and the roof that bring the cooling effect.
- Proper installed solar panels reduce the risk of water leakage during heavy rains.
- If you have solar panels that are slanting, you will have less to worry about during winter. This is because the snow slides off these panels.
Does The Roof Warranty Cover For Damages During Solar Installation?
No. Your roof warranty is mostly applicable during two situations; it covers the roof installation process and the quality of material used.
This warranty can work if you decide to seek solar installation services from the company that handled the roof installation.
This is not the case for all companies, and you should shop around and compare the services.
How Can I Prepare My Roof To Prevent Damages During Solar Installation?
- Start by doing repairs on the roof. These repairs will help the top provide a steady surface for the solar panels to sit on. You even end up saving the amount you would have spent if you were to do the repairs after the installation.
- Ensure you have enough space on your roof to accommodate the panels. If you have a small space, try to be innovative but be careful not to exert more pressure.
- Consider the weight of the panel and determine how much the roof can hold. This step is crucial as it reduces the risk of your roof collapsing.
- Shop around to get the best solar installation deals. Take advantage of rebates and give priority to companies offering product warranties.
Bottom Line
It is clear that solar installation doesn't ruin your roof unless it wasn't done right. Depending on your roof type, you might consider choosing the best of the two installation methods; tradition and solar stack technology.
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