The Qualifications For A Solar Roof

Roofers in Napa, CA Want To Share Information About Solar Roof Panels

Draw Energy From Solar Roof Panels

More and more Americans are making an effort to depend less on oil-based energy and embrace “green” energy sources, such as wind and solar. Solar roof panels have seen a surprising uptick in popularity in recent years. According to a 2019 Pew Research Center survey, almost half of American homeowners have seriously considered installing solar panels.

If you are thinking about going solar, here is what you need to know about how solar panels work and whether you qualify for installation.

The Basics of Solar Power

A solar panel is actually made of several smaller panels called photovoltaic cells. Their job is to absorb photons, which are particles of light, and use them to push electrons out of atoms. This action creates a flow of electricity.

A single array of 10-20 rooftop solar panels can cover most of the energy needs for an average household. One individual panel can produce up to 250 watts per month, which equates to about 1/20th of the average household’s needs.

Does My Home Qualify For Rooftop Solar Panels?

Solar can be a great option to cover or offset your home’s energy needs, and thus reduce utility bills, but not all houses are eligible. Whether solar power would work for you depends on a number of factors.

1. Roof Type: The type of roofing materials used on your home will play a factor in whether or not you can install solar panels. Composite asphalt shingles and sheet metal roofs are the best for solar panel installation. Some types of roofs, such as flat roofs and tile roofs, will need additional hardware to properly angle the panels and will have other additional installation costs.
2. Shade Coverage: Solar panels do not necessarily need to be in direct sunlight, but they do need to be exposed to at least 4 hours of peak sunlight. A variety of factors can change this number, including your household’s energy usage and your location. It’s safe to say, however, that if your home is surrounded by large trees, solar panels probably won’t be worth the investment for you.
3. Roof Direction: In the northern hemisphere, rooftops that face south are ideal for solar panels, as they will receive the maximum number of peak sun hours. Roofs that face east or west may still be eligible, while north-facing roofs are the least suitable, especially during winter months.
4. Amount of Space: The optimum solar panel array for the average household covers at least 400 square feet (10-20 panels). If your roof is too small, or there aren’t enough smooth surfaces, you will not be able to fit a solar array that will meet your needs. Also, if your household requires more energy than average, you will need a larger array.
5. Roof Condition: If your roof is in bad shape, you may need to install a new roof before installing solar panels. Solar panels are an investment, and you wouldn’t want to have to move them later. Similarly, you must be sure your house can bear the additional weight load of the panels. A roofing contractor would be able to advise you on that.

Find A Roofing Company You Can Trust

Installing rooftop solar panels is a complicated process that requires construction and electrical knowledge. Not all roofing companies are experienced with solar installation or even offer it. You should look for a roofing company that specializes in solar panel installation so that you’ll be able to trust them to get the job done safely and correctly.

Trust Modern Method Roofing

Modern Method Roofing & Construction has been trusted by homeowners in Napa, CA for over 63 years. Their contractors are experts in rooftop solar panel installation, and also offer roof repairs, new roof installation, and gutter and downspout installation. With competitive bidding, 100% financing, and senior discounts, you can afford to trust Modern Method Roofing to keep your roof in “the peak of excellence.”