In the last ten years, renewable energy has become a lot more accessible for everyday use than it used to be. If you care about the environment and want to invest in decreasing your bills gradually then applying some of the renewable energy sources in your household can be a great start.
There are many options but solar panels have proven to be the most convenient, depending on where you live of course. Solar panels can be used to provide you with electricity, heating or warm water. They do require initial investment but in the long run it pays off and it will be your way of paying back to mother nature.
The most common way of using solar panels is by installing them on your roof. So, the question is how does it affect your roof? Does it require any preparations? If you are planning to shift to solar panels then we’ve got some valuable information for you.
Things to know about solar panels
There are different types of solar panels and they vary based on functions, price, installation requirements and so. For this article, we will concentrate on the most common solar panels used in the household.
One thing that is an absolute must for you to know is what you are going to use the solar panels for: generate the whole electricity, generate some electricity or heat the water. Based on your need, the solar installer will advise you the most suitable option.
One thing to keep in mind – the more functionalities you want, the more complicated the installation hence it becomes more expensive.
Very often than not, solar installers can get your panel up and running for less than $4000. You won’t immediately notice the difference in your bill but you will definitely when some time passes. Plus, you can’t put price on decreasing your carbon footprint, right?
How do solar panels affect your roof?
As the solar panel is installed on your roof, there are some criteria that your roof needs to be met for that. We will discuss some of them that you need to know:
- Is your roof suitable for solar panels?
This is a two-part question actually. The first part relates to the durability and the resistance of your roof. Is it strong enough to hold the panels? The second part is about the location. Does your roof get enough sunlight? Maybe it’s covered with trees or shade from the nearby building.
2. Should you buy or lease?
In case you didn’t know, you can also lease solar panels instead of going to full commitment. Leasing allows you to check whether it’s a good match for your household. Some homeowners care about the looks, so you can see how it looks on your roof.
3. Installing on your own or getting a roofing contractor?
It’s highly recommended not to attempt installation on your own. Plus, a roofing contractor alone might not be able to help you unless they’re certified in solar panel installation. Consult with a solar installer for the best result.
Going green is a great initiative. And with some research and preparations, you will become a household who takes care of the environment.
