Solar power is a natural energy that can reduce your utility bill and carbon footprint. Most homeowners install solar panels on their roofs to save lawn space and receive maximum sun exposure. The system and its mounting equipment can weigh between two and four pounds per square inch, and while most roofs can handle this weight, some materials are more suitable than others.

4 Factors That Determine If Your Roof Can Support Solar Panels

1. Material

If your roof is made of asphalt shingles, the installation will be quick and easy because the sturdy material holds penetrating mounting equipment well. Metal surfaces can also handle the system because it’s installed directly onto the seams with clamping mounts. There isn’t a need to drill holes on metal or tile roofs during installation; however, the latter requires attaching panels on brackets that keep them from making direct, damaging contact.

Flat tar and gravel roofs need brackets to angle the solar panels off the surface to absorb sunlight, so you might not get a seamless look. Since wood is a potential fire hazard, most solar system companies don’t recommend installing panels on this material.

2. Condition

There may be damage hiding under shingles, so professionally inspect your material and underlayment before installation to determine its condition. For example, an asphalt roof with excessive broken and missing shingles, depressions, and granule losses wouldn’t be a candidate for a solar power system.

3. Age

Consider age as you determine its solar power candidacy as older materials may have existing problems, such as leaks, structural damage, and rot. Aged roofs can also feature several layers of shingles that can put significant pressure on the underlayment and framing when a system is added.

4. Region

Houses in areas that receive full sun most of the year, such as Hawaii, are ideal candidates for solar panels. If you live in a cloudy region, you can still harness sunlight, especially if your roof is angled towards the south. Roofing systems in the Northern Hemisphere with a southern slant receive the most sun.

If your roof is a candidate, contact the team at Solar Help Hawaii in Honolulu. This local alternative energy company specializes in solar equipment, such as photovoltaic panels and attic fans as well as hot water, pool heating, and split AC systems. Catering to the entire island of Oahu, their team will install and repair your equipment, and all services come with five-year manufacturer and workmanship warranties. Call (808) 548-4357 to schedule a free consultation, or read client testimonies online.