The Not-So-Sunny Roofing Impacts of Solar Panels

There is little debate about whether solar energy is effective, but how solar panels affect residential roofs may be another story. Whether you are for solar power or against it, the weight and position of the panels is definitely something to consider, especially if you are thinking about installing solar panels or already have them installed. These factors can impact the longevity of your roof and how often repairs or replacements need to be done.

Positives of Solar Panels

Most are aware of the many benefits of solar panels. They are more eco-friendly than traditional energy sources because solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that helps lower the carbon footprint of its users. Solar is also more sustainable and space-efficient than wind turbines or watermills. A counter to all this is that solar panels are typically very expensive, but several government programs have been created to negate the installation costs, making them more affordable than ever.

One additional advantage of solar is that once properly installed, the panels can provide increased protection for your roof, shielding the shingles from fallen objects like tree branches. 

Solar Panels Wear on Your Roof

However, solar has a not-so-sunny side, and it can negatively affect your roof if you’re not careful.

Added Weight on the Roof

While solar panels can act as a shield for your roof, most panels are not light, and this additional weight places significant stress on the roofing materials, decreasing their strength and longevity over time. An old or weakened roof may not be able to stand up to the added stress, creating a risk of cracks and leaks and forcing you to repair or replace your roof sooner than you thought.

Improper Installation

Besides the normal tear and wear, the installation of panels also poses a hazard to your roof. To secure the solar panels to the roof, holes must be drilled into the roofing material. When done improperly, your tiles or shingles may chip or crack, which can lead to major leaks and structural damage.

How to Protect Your Roof

Even with these negative effects in mind, there are still ways to protect your home and your roof while benefiting from solar energy.

Do Your Research

That smiling door-to-door solar salesman may seem incredibly nice, but before you sign on the dotted line, do your own research to find an experienced professional. You should search online for reviews and get recommendations from family and friends to find a solar company you can trust.

If you have already installed solar panels or bought a home that has them, be sure to check your warranty to see what kind of coverage you have.

Be Vigilant

Solar panels themselves are said to be low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean your roof is. Inspect your roof regularly for any signs that could lead to problems down the road. If you are looking to install solar panels and your roof is fifteen years old or older, you should consider replacing it before adding panels. Some solar companies won’t even agree to install solar panels on a roof that is too old.

Conclusion

Solar power can be a huge benefit to you and your home, helping the environment and saving you money in energy bills long term. However, if you are not careful, all those savings could cost you more in roof repair. By doing your research and performing regular inspections and maintenance on your roof, you can avoid significant damage to the roofing material, ensuring it lasts for many years to come.