Is your roof suitable for solar? Several factors determine whether we can efficiently install solar panels on your home or business including the orientation, angle, and condition of your roof, as well as your geographical location and your specific solar energy goals. Here are some key considerations for figuring out if your roof is right for solar panels:

Roof Orientation: A south-facing roof is typically the best orientation for solar panels as it maximizes exposure to sunlight throughout the day. East and west-facing roofs can also work, but they may be slightly less efficient. We chose not to install solar panels on north-facing roofs as they generate less energy. Panels on a standard pitch roof facing north will produce roughly 30% less than panels facing south.

Roof Angle: The ideal roof angle for solar panels also depends on your location. In the United States, a roof angle of about 30-45 degrees is common, but it can vary based on your latitude. Panels should be installed at an angle that maximizes energy production throughout the year.

Roof Material: Solar panels can be installed on a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and flat roofs. It’s essential to ensure that your roof is in good condition and can support the weight of the solar panels. Cement and clay tile roofs are easily damaged tend to create issues during the installation process. Breaks or cracks can occur while fastening solar panels to a tile roof, potentially compromising roof integrity and leading to leaks and other damage to your home. Drilling through these tiles may also result in damage to the base layer of your roof called the underlayment, which is used for extra protection below tiles or shingles.

Shade: We tend to avoid roofs with excessive shading from nearby trees, buildings, or other obstructions, as shade can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar panels. Trim or remove these types of shading sources if possible.

Roof Age: If your roof is nearing the end of its life, it’s a good idea to replace it before installing solar panels. The types of solar panels we install are expected last 25 years or more, so you want your roof to have a similar lifespan.

Home Age: Older homes usually aren’t designed to hold the added weight of a solar installation. One solar panel weighs around 45 lbs, which can be quite heavy as you add more and more. Consider reinforcing roof areas where you are installing solar panels to alleviate some of the burden.

Local Regulations: Check with your local building and zoning authorities for any regulations or permitting requirements for solar panel installations on your roof. If you live in an HOA, you may need to get permission before solar panels are installed. HOAs in Missouri legally cannot stop you from installing solar on your roof, but HOAs in Kansas can.

Aesthetic Preferences: Consider how solar panels will look on your roof, as this may affect your choice of solar panel system. This tends to be a major factor when dealing with HOAs. We provide our solar customers with all-black solar panel options, which tend to blend in better with some roofs.

It’s a good idea to consult with a professional to assess your specific situation and determine if your roof is a good candidate for solar. They can evaluate your roof’s suitability and provide recommendations based on your unique circumstances and goals. Additionally, they can help you calculate the potential energy savings and return on investment for your solar panel system. If you would like to reach out to one of our solar consultants for a free quote, you can contact them here.