Is my roof ready for solar panels?
Looking to install solar on your Fort Collins home? If so, you might be wondering if your roof is ready for solar panels. Solar panels will remain on your home for a long time, thus, it’s essential to consider all of the pros and cons. At Sandbox Solar, we will help you navigate these questions and get the ball rolling!
What material is your roof made of?
Most residential roofs have asphalt shingles, which are perfect for mounting solar panels on. Special attachment can be provided if your roof is made of metal, stone coated steel, or a few selected others. However, if your roof is made of tiles or wood, a ground mount install may need to be considered. These materials are not ideal for installing solar panels. Your Sandbox Solar installer will answer any questions you have about your roof and whether it’s suitable for solar installation.
What is the age of your roof?
It is important to consider the age of your roof in order to install solar panels. For example, it does not make sense to add solar just yet if your roof needs to be replaced. Therefore, it would be best to replace the roof first and then move forward with the solar installation. You don’t want to have to remove your panels before replacing your roof if unnecessary.
Does your roof have enough space?
After your free Sandbox Solar consultation, you’ll know whether your roof has enough space and how many panels will be needed. Our team will work on a custom layout design thereafter. Although, most roofs have obstructions, such as chimneys and skylights. We will work around these areas by splitting up the placement of your panels.
What is the angle and pitch of your roof?
The direction your roof faces will affect the amount of sunlight and energy your panels receive. Therefore, it’s best to position your solar panels on a roof facing true south in order to yield the best energy production and savings. Thus, a tilt between 30 and 45 degrees is optimal. After our inspection, we will help you get the best orientation for your solar panels.
Pro tip: If you are unsure which direction your roof faces, you can look it up on Google Maps. Enter your address, and the grid will show which direction is true south. Then you can compare that to the direction of your roof.
Does your roof get a lot of shade?
If your roof is covered by shade from trees, nearby houses, or buildings, your potential solar energy production will decrease. Ideally, your roof will receive ample sunlight from 9 am to 3 pm. Sometimes nearby trees can be trimmed, and other obstructions can be removed, but not always. The Sandbox Solar team will survey the area and communicate the best course of action regarding the amount of shade your roof is exposed to.
Is your roof suitable for solar in Fort Collins? Our consultants can provide answers for FREE!
We hope that the above information answered some of your questions about whether or not your roof is ready for Fort Collins solar. Learn more today with a free consultation. Sandbox Solar’s experienced technicians will be able to answer any additional questions you might have. Our goal is to get you on the right track to saving money and energy!
