In
This Article, You Will Learn:
1. Advantages and Disadvantages of Residential Solar Panels
2. 10 Things to Consider Before Installing Residential Solar Panels
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As energy-efficiency remains a major priority for Canadian homeowners, it’s no surprise that solar power systems are becoming increasingly popular.
With the ability to generate renewable energy while simultaneously supporting the environment, upgrading your home with residential solar panels can provide a number of profitable benefits! However, it’s very important that homeowners consider the condition of their existing roof prior to installing new solar panels to ensure that their investment will function as optimally as intended.
While solar panels typically last between 30-35 years, older roofs present a higher risk for deterioration and/or efficiency problems as they continue to age.
At T Simpson Roofing Ltd., we are committed to helping Canadians get the most out of their homes.
To help you better understand your options, the following article will address the advantages and disadvantages of residential solar panels, along with 10 things to consider before installing solar panels onto your residential roof.
Solar energy is both renewable and sustainable; giving solar panels the ability to decrease overall energy expenses while reducing our carbon footprint.
However, residential solar panels are not always the best fit for every type of property!
If you are considering solar energy for your residential home, here are some advantages and disadvantages you should know about:
Advantages of Residential Solar Panels
– Renewable Energy Source
– Increases Residential Energy-Efficiency
– Reduces Overall Energy Expenses
– Potential for Tax Credits and Rebates
– Reduces Carbon Footprint
– Increases Property Resale Value
Limitations of Residential Solar Panels
– Expensive Upfront Investment
– May Not Work for Every Type of Roof
– Can Only Conserve Energy With Direct Exposure to Sunlight
– Solar Energy Storage Can Be Expensive
– Performance Relies on Professional Installation
– Expensive Maintenance and Replacements
While there are a number of pros and cons to consider, each residential property is unique!
As the intended benefits and performance rely on a wide variety of factors, here are the top 10 things to consider before installing residential solar panels on your roof:
1. How Old is Your Roof?
While the average lifespan of a residential roof can last anywhere between 20-30 years (depending on the materials used), it’s important to consider the age of your roof before installing new solar panels. If your existing roof is damaged or in need of a replacement, it may not be the best time to switch to solar energy.
2. What Shape is Your Roof?
As residential roofs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, it’s very important to make sure that your roof has enough space to accommodate solar panels before installation. Without enough surface area to cover, your solar panels might not be able to generate as much energy as expected.
3. Does Your Roof Show Any Visible Signs of Damage?
When a solar panel is installed, the major priority is to secure a strong, air-tight seal that will prevent air and/or water from seeping into the home. If your roof is showing any visible signs of damage, it will be impossible to ensure long-term reliability without the need for expensive repairs.
4. Will Your Roofing and Solar Panel Warranties Conflict?
Similar to a roof replacement warranty, solar panel warranties are available to provide long-term confidence and protection in your investment. To ensure that you are always well-protected, we recommend that homeowners try to match up the duration of their solar panel warranties with their roofing warranties.
5. Which Direction Would The Solar Panels Face?
To generate the maximum potential in solar energy, your solar panels require direct exposure to the sun. To ensure that your solar panels will perform as expected, it’s important to consider which direction your solar panel installations will face, and if there are any obstructions to direct sunlight.
6. Can Your Roof Handle The Additional Weight?
When considering a solar panel installation, it’s important to consider the impact of the additional weight. If the solar panels are too heavy for your roof to support, the risk of a roof collapse can be devastating. To avoid any safety risks, it’s important for homeowners to consult a professional to determine if any additional support might be required to complete the installation process.
7. Will Solar Panels Interupt Water Runoff?
It’s not uncommon for some cases of solar panel installations to redirect the flow of water from your roof. While water should ideally flow into the gutters and away from your home, the risk of uncontrolled water flow can sometimes result in leaks, water damage and mold. To avoid this concern, speak with your trusted professionals to ensure that your installation plan will not negatively impact your roof’s ability to drain water.
8. Have You Compared Your Options?
As technology has continued to evolve over the years, the price of solar panels have dropped significantly for cheaper models. However, it’s important to note that most low-end solar panel manufacturers often use less durable materials which can also decrease their ability to generate sustainable energy. While some of these materials are also associated with safety hazards, it’s important to do your research and compare your options before investing in the most economical choice.
9. Who Will Be Completing The Installation Process?
One of the most important factors in a residential solar panel installation is a professional installation. While many Canadian homeowners are tempted by a cost-effective DIY project, it’s important to understand all that can go wrong. From safety standards and code compliance to electrical work and water-proof sealing, the risks involved in a single error make this project much better suited to trained professionals.
10. Consult a Professional
While switching to solar energy can provide a number of profitable benefits, it’s important to understand the number of risks involved as well. At T. Simpson Roofing Ltd., we highly encourage Canadian homeowners to work with a trusted professional to ensure that their solar panel installation will perform up to their expectations.
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If you are interested in learning more about your solar energy options, click here or call 1-800-925-3044 for more information.
