Solar panels are becoming popular for homeowners, offering a chance to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, take advantage of incentives and rebates, and lower the amount spent on electricity. If you’re adding these amenities to your home, there are several ways to prepare your property and ensure installation goes smoothly. Here’s a guide to the process. 

How to Ready Your Roof for Solar Panels

1. Secure Necessary Permits

Connecticut law sets out certain zoning requirements before adding solar panels. Your municipality may have additional rules. While there is no statewide standard application process for permits, your town or county likely has specific rules. Acquire this information online or by visiting the township’s offices. Professional installers will also know the type of permits needed and provide the assistance you need to get everything in order.

2. Schedule an Inspection

Ensure that your roof is in top condition before installing a set of solar panels. Aging, damaged, or weak materials could jeopardize the stability of the surface, especially under the weight of your new apparatus. You’ll also want to have any leaks that could cause interior damage repaired. Having a professional inspection performed and addressing all needed repairs will help the panels last their projected lifespan of 20 to 25 years.

3. Trim Nearby Trees

Any amount of shade that’s cast onto the roof of the house will reduce the amount of sunlight that the solar panels absorb. Make a note of the branches that might present a problem and call for a local tree service to have them trimmed back.

4. Reposition Roof Vents

Many structures have vents on their roofs to keep the indoor humidity at a manageable level. These can get in the way of the installation. Meet with the solar contractors before the project begins to determine the best way to relocate each of the vents.

If you’re considering solar panel installation, contact Zelek Electric Co. of Old Lyme, CT. This family-owned company has more than 40 years of experience and offers an assortment of electrical services, including solar upgrades, generator repair, and basic electric. Their contractors are highly trained in the latest techniques and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau® for their exceptional customer service. Set up an appointment with one of their experts by calling (860) 434-9726. Visit their website for additional information on their electrical services.