Solar power is highly valued today.
People all around the world are trying to reduce their carbon footprint and save precious resources in the process. One of the most common ways to harness solar power is through the use of solar panels placed on the top of your house. Being a popular option, there are a lot of questions and concerns regarding the installation process. Many factors affect the setup and maintenance, so let’s see how to choose the best roof material for solar panels.
Installing solar panels or re-roofing first?
South Texas solar panels are praised for being some of the best on the market. However, before you can approach the process of installing solar panels, you have to check a couple of things with your solar company. Above all, you have to know whether you need to re-roof or not.
The current condition of your roof plays a crucial role. If it’s brand new, or at least reasonably new, there is no need to fix anything. But, if your roof was placed 10 to 20 years ago, you might have to check it first to see if it requires any remodeling.
The second question that requires an answer is what type of material to use if re-roofing.
Are solar panels compatible with all types of roofs?
The critical thing to understand is that, while solar panels can fit on almost all types of roofs, multiple factors will be decisive in choosing the roof material for solar panels.
The pitch of the roof
First of all, the pitch of the roof is fundamental. For the most efficiency, your roof needs to be at an angle of 30 to 40 degrees. Anything above that is considered too steep and may result in loss of energy production.
The size and shape
The second factor is the size and shape of your roof. According to the best solar companies in Texas, you need a surface of at least 300 feet to install residential solar panels of average size. Furthermore, it is best if it’s square-shaped because it simplifies the installation process. Additionally, have in mind that a chimney, dormers, or other roof features will affect the available space.
Orientation
The factor that affects the amount of solar energy you harness the most is the solar panels’ orientation. For homes in Texas, it is best if they are facing the south, southwest, or southeast side.
However, if you cannot change your roof’s orientation, you can ask your residential solar installers in San Antonio to install racks. That way, you can easily change the direction at any time.
Shade reduces energy production
Finally, it is crucial to measure the level of shade around your roof, as it can substantially reduce solar panels’ productivity. If your home is next to a large building, you might have to consider whether installing solar panels is for you or not. However, if there is a large tree throwing some shade on your roof, you can always trim its branches.
Before doing anything, consult with your contractor.
How to choose the best roof material for solar panels?
Now that we know which factors affect solar panels’ efficiency, let’s talk about the best choices for roof material. Keep in mind that there is no need to spend a small fortune on repairing your roof. There are plenty of upgrades that look good and are affordable.
Composite roofing
Composite roofing is made out of fiberglass, asphalt, recycled paper products, and similar materials. It is very common, and it does not crack, split, or warp in any way. It can come in any color, it is affordable, and is an excellent choice of material for solar panels.
Roof tiles
Depending on the material of roof tiles you have, the price for installing solar panels may vary. For example, concrete tiles are a more affordable option when it comes to setting up your residential solar system. On the other hand, clay tiles will add more to the installation cost because the panels will have to be raised more above them.
Different materials mean different distances between the tiles and solar panels. The larger the space is, the more brackets you have to use to lift the panels high enough.
Wooden roof
If you have a wooden roof on your home, you will have to change it before installing solar panels. The main reason is the fire safety hazard. However, if you don’t want to change the roof, there are other options you can use. Professional solar companies in San Antonio also offer off-grid solar system installation.
Tar and gravel roofs
This is one of the more expensive options for installing solar panels, mostly because the roofs built with this material are entirely flat. You will need to add additional brackets that will tilt the panels to get the right angle.
Metal roofs
Out of all the mentioned options, standing seam metal roofs are by far the best and most affordable option for setting up a solar system in your home. It is very easy to attach or remove solar panels, so the price will be lower because the process is straightforward, and you will be able to move it with ease with the help of Small World Moving Texas when the time comes to relocate. There is also no need to drill any holes in your roof.
An additional benefit is that the roof of this kind is made out of recycled materials, and it is entirely eco-friendly. That’s why it is one of the most common options for commercial solar San Antonio setups.
Choose the best roof material for solar panels and make your life easy and simple
As you can see, your choice of materials will make a massive difference in the cost and installation process of a solar system. If you are not sure how to choose the best roof material for solar panels, it is a good idea to ask your Austin solar installers for a piece of advice. Best of luck with installing a solar system in your home!