While there are many advantages to solar energy, as a homeowner, it’s natural to have questions about the installation process before you dive in. One of the most frequent queries is, “Will the solar panels damage your roof?”
When can solar panels damage your roof?
Solar installations can damage your roof if they are not placed properly. Both improperly installed and low-quality solar panels pose the following risks to your roof:
Water damage: Improper placement can disrupt water flow on your roof, making it difficult for water to reach the gutters. Ponding can occur, causing the roof to leak and enter your home.
Fire: Although rare, defective solar panels can cause fires. According to a German risk report, 210 of 430 fires involving solar systems were caused by design defects.
Structural damage: If a building cannot support the weight of a solar panel system, the overall structure and health of the roof can be compromised. When solar panels need to be replaced, the removal process can also damage your roof if done incorrectly.
How to prevent roof damage?
Before installing solar panels, a certified solar company will evaluate your roof’s suitability for installation. The roof must be free of structural damage and must be able to support the total weight of your panels. If you have enough space, you can avoid roof damage altogether by installing panels on the ground.
Before asking if solar panels are damaging your roof, assess the health of your roof. To prevent damage, the following factors should be considered:
Structural height: The taller your house is, the greater the likelihood of accidents that could cause damage due to the difficulty of installation.
1. Weak wind and earthquake loads: If your home was not initially built to be extremely wind or earthquake resistant, your roof may be more vulnerable during these natural disasters.
2. Age of your roof: The older your roof is, the more vulnerable it is to damage.
3. Roof slope: The ideal roof angle for solar panels is between 45 and 85 degrees.
4. Roof material: Wooden roofs are not recommended because they tend to crack when drilled and are a fire hazard.
The most suitable roofing materials for solar panels include asphalt, metal, shingles, and tar-gravel composites. Since roofs and solar panels should be replaced every 20 to 30 years, installing panels immediately after roof replacement is a good way to prevent damage.
Can solar panels damage your roof if installed correctly?
The two main ways to prevent roof damage are to hire a trusted, licensed solar panel installer and to choose a high-quality solar system. At SUNRUNE Solar, we offer top-notch solar panels that are reliable and durable. Our solar experts also guide you through the proper installation to prevent damage to your roof structure. Since solar is a lifetime decision, we offer lifetime support. With SUNRUNE Solar, the question of “Will solar panels damage your roof” is a non-issue!
Post time: Jun-15-2023