While there are many benefits to solar energy, as a homeowner you naturally have questions about the installation process before taking the plunge. One of the most frequently asked questions is: “Are solar panels damaging your roof?”
When do solar panels damage your roof?
In short, solar panels can damage your roof if installed incorrectly. Poor installation and low-quality solar panels can create the following hazards for your roof:
- Water damagePoor installation can disrupt the flow of water over your roof, making it difficult for water to enter your gutters. Consolidation can occur, causing leaks from your roof and into your home.
- FireAlthough rare, malfunctioning solar panels can cause fires. According to a risk report in Germany, 210 out of 430 solar system fires were caused by design flaws.
- Structural damageIf the building cannot withstand the weight of the solar panel system, the overall structure and health of the roof is compromised.
When it comes time to replace your solar panels, the removal process can also damage your roof if done incorrectly.
How can roof damage be prevented?
Before installing solar panels, certified solar companies assess whether your roof is a good fit. The roof must have no structural damage and must be able to support the total weight of your panels. If you have space on your property, you can completely avoid roof damage by placing your panels on the ground.
Before you ask if solar panels are damaging your roof, assess the health of your roof. To prevent damage, the following should be considered:
- The height of the structureThe higher your house is, the greater the chance of damage due to the difficulty of installation, as the chances of accidents are high.
- Light wind and seismic loadsIf your home was not originally built to be highly resistant to winds or earthquakes, your roof may be more vulnerable during these natural disasters.
- Roof eraThe older your roof is, the more prone it is to damage.
- Roof slopeThe ideal solar roof angle falls between 45 and 85 degrees.
- Roof materialWooden roofs are not recommended for installation as they crack easily when drilled and are a fire hazard.
The best solar panel roofing materials include asphalt, metal, tile, and resin-gravel composites. Since both roofs and solar panels need to be replaced every 20-30 years, installing the panels soon after the roof is replaced is a good way to prevent damage.
Do solar panels damage your roof if installed correctly?
The two main ways to prevent roof damage are to hire trusted, licensed solar panel installers and choose a high-quality solar system. At Unbound Solar, we offer premium solar panels that are reliable and durable. Our solar professionals also guide you through proper installation to prevent structural compromise of your roof. Because solar is a lifelong decision, we offer lifelong support. With Unbound Solar, the question “do solar panels damage your roof” is not a concern, so your question is “how can you get your panels installed as soon as possible?” Call our solar experts today to convert to cleaner energy.
