Are Solar Panels Safe for Your Roof?

Roof with solar panels

Will Solar Panels Damage My Roof?

Has the thought of going solar been on your mind? With an increase in solar panel installations in the past couple of years, you may see them everywhere. Don’t let concerns for your home’s integrity stop you from protecting the environment; our team of Norwalk, CT, roofing specialists is here to ease your mind by providing some advice to ensure your roof doesn’t get harmed during the installation process.

Roof Life Span

One of the main elements to consider is whether your home can handle solar panels on top. Being energy-efficient is a lengthy process – after spending months installing the system, you won’t want to go through the hassle of having to remove it for roofing renovations. Therefore, if your roof has approximately ten years or less left, we recommend holding off on going solar until it has been replaced.

Increased Protection

Not only can solar panels create renewable energy, but they can also protect the roof from the elements – mother nature will have nothing on you now! Additionally, they prevent the color of the house’s covering from fading and bad storms from ripping roofing materials. What’s more, with the panels absorbing the direct sunlight, there will be a cooling effect that will keep the inside of your home nice and cool during the warmer months.

No Extensive Holes

Most homeowners second guess attaching solar panels to their roofs due to the thought of holes getting drilled in, which could cause leaks or damage to the shingles. However, that is not the case, as most solar systems do not require any holes. Some may need to attach bolts into the roof’s rafters; still, it is not something that will lead to water leaks. 

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything, even solar panels, because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you become eco-friendly!

How Does Winter Affect My Solar Panels?

Many homeowners don’t realize this, but solar panels do actually work in the winter. Their output ends up being less in the summertime, considering we get less sunlight, but they are still just as efficient in the cold. When it comes to heavy snowfall or cloudy days, homeowners should know all the facts regarding the changing of seasons and their solar panels. 

Your Solar Panels In The Snow

On days when we get heavy snowfall, and it covers your panels, it will not produce electricity for your home. However, the surfaces are designed in such a way that will allow snow to fall off. The surface naturally takes in the sun’s heat so that the snow will melt fairly quickly over time. You won’t lose too much in production after a storm, and you don’t even need to worry about cleaning it off yourself. 

Your Solar Panels In The Cold

Extreme temperatures might cause freezing and more on your solar panels. However, winter conditions can increase their performance. This helps cancel out any lost production when your panels are covered in snow. The system’s technology makes it so that the conversion of sunlight into power becomes stronger in freezing temperatures. 

Should I Clean Off My Solar Panels?

We recommend letting the panels do the work on their own. Even if there is a decent amount of snow on them, the sun will naturally melt off everything! There have been some instances where homeowners have tried to wipe off snow after storms but then accidentally caused damage to their system. You might not have a warranty, so avoid using hard edge tools or anything with metal.  

Roofing Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing lasts and is safe for your family, you need to hire the best contractor possible. The experts at JM Roofing and Siding are licensed and insured to serve you in Norwalk, Connecticut, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free estimate!