You've done your research and decided to switch to solar energy, and you may already be talking to solar installers. Before you sign, make sure your roof is as ready for a solar panel installation as you are. There are three important questions to answer before you make the move to solar energy:
- What does your roof look like?
- What is the condition of your roof?
- How much sun vs. shade does your roof get throughout the day?
What Does My Roof Look Like?
A roof inspection is the first step in deciding whether your roof is ready for solar panels. These are the factors to look at:
- The age of your roof
- The roofing material
- Obstacles that limit where panels can go
Age of the Roof
If your roof will need to be replaced within the next several years, it's best to replace it before solar panels are installed. Otherwise you'll pay to have the panels removed and reinstalled when the roof is replaced. In North Texas, hail is the wild card: a roof that looks young on paper may already have storm damage that shortens its life.
Roofing Materials
Asphalt shingles and standing seam metal roofs are the most common surfaces for residential solar. Some materials, such as slate and clay or concrete tile, require more care because they can crack when walked on or drilled. If your roof is made of a delicate material, talk to a professional roofer about how the panels will be mounted.
Obstacles
Panels are laid out in rows, so vents, chimneys, skylights and valleys limit how many fit on your roof. A good solar designer can work around many obstacles, but they can still affect how much power the system produces. Sometimes old vents can be relocated or combined when the roof is replaced.
What is the Condition of Your Roof?
Depending on the condition of your roof, you may need repairs or a replacement before panels go on. Look for these signs:
- Damaged or sagging rafters or decking
- Leaks or stains in the attic or on ceilings and walls
- Mildew in the attic
- Missing granules, curling shingles or hail bruising
- Loose or rusted flashing around chimneys, walls and vents
If your roof shows any of these signs, get a roof repair estimate or a free inspection. Our guide on repair vs. replacement can help you decide which makes sense. If the area where you want panels is hard to reach, your home's plans can show how the roof is framed.
How Much Sun vs Shade Does My Roof Get?
Shade from trees and other buildings reduces how much power the system produces. In North Texas, south- and west-facing roof planes usually get the most sun, so it's best to avoid putting panels in shady areas. Trimming trees can help, and it also keeps branches off your shingles.
Make Sure Your Roof is Ready for Solar Panels
A little preparation makes a big difference for a solar energy system. Answer the three questions above, fix what needs fixing, and your panels will sit on a roof that can last as long as they do. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, check its rules on panel placement before the design is final.
Roof Experts: Helping Homeowners Prepare for Solar
Your roof takes a beating in North Texas, and the only way to really know what's going on up there is to have a professional inspect it. Roof Experts has served homeowners across DFW since 2017 from our office in Arlington, and our inspections are free. Call (817) 754-9484 to have your roof checked before your solar install.