Integrating solar electricity into homes is a hot topic right now. More homes are being built with solar-powered electric systems included in the plans, and countless people are installing the systems on their existing homes. If rooftop solar is something you’re curious to learn more about, we’ve put together this homeowner’s guide.
A Homeowner’s Guide to Rooftop Solar Systems
Solar electricity systems can be a powerful addition to a home. If the price is right, the conditions are suitable, and the return is appropriate, solar might be a good choice for you.
Is Putting Solar Panels on Your Roof a Good Idea?
There are a number of things to think about when considering having solar panels installed on your roof. Every home and circumstance will be different so it’s important to review these points, and weigh the advantages and disadvantages to make the right choice.
- Exposure – You might think you have a lot of sun in one area of your roof because your eyes are more sensitive than a solar panel. But these devices need to accumulate the right amount of sunlight during the day, and what you think is enough sun exposure might not be as ideal as what’s needed. Generally speaking, solar panels are best when seated on a sturdy roof facing south at a certain angle. Trees, other portions of your home, and neighboring houses or structures should not obstruct the light that reaches your solar panels.
- Roof condition – The condition of your existing roof is a big factor in the determination of installing solar panels. If a roof is older, installing a solar panel system might not be the best move until a new roof has been installed. The roof structure needs to be sound enough to withstand the panel weight, walking around during the install, and enough years into the future before the roof needs replacing for it to make sense to add solar panels right now.
- Electricity usage – Does your home use enough electricity to make it worthwhile to install solar?
- Costs – Having solar power installed on either an existing roof or a newly built home can come with a significant price tag. Considering this and the usage return over a period of time can help you decide if having solar on your home is worth it to your family and home. Maybe there are incentives in your area to compensate for some of the expense. Plus, well-installed solar power can be a good investment for a home in certain areas. Other aspects of the costs to look into are the batteries, wiring, and reconfiguring your home if necessary for proper solar power.
- Maintenance – Solar panels can be a hiding place for birds, insects, and other pests. Your roof and solar panel system should be reviewed regularly, cleaned, repaired, and kept in good condition. If you had a large storm come through, solar panels can get damaged, or the roof might need repairs and the solar panels need to be removed.
Are Solar Panels Actually Worth It?
This is a lot to think about when considering having solar panels installed on your home. Do you have the budget? What about the resources for maintenance or necessary repairs? Does solar work with your current roof design and location? What is the return on investment for this home upgrade?
Do your research, talk with people who have solar on their houses already, and speak with roofing and solar panel experts about both the benefits and the disadvantages. Then weigh these points out and see if it’s a good move for your home and if you think it’s worth it.
Your Local Austin, TX Roofing Professionals
We strive to bring you the best in roofing for the Austin, Texas area. We deliver decades of roofing experience, training, and knowledge in this area’s needs. We are a prominent roofing company in residential roof repair and roof replacement. We will not ask for a deposit on labor or materials as a dependable way to stand out from the competition while bringing you the best product and service in Austin.
When we inspect, install, or repair your roof, we want to provide you with the best options for your roof design, components, and ventilation. We are Master Elite Contractors bringing you the latest in roofing technology, and a member of our local area Better Business Bureau, so you know we take pride in our work and our community.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule your FREE roofing inspection and quote today.
