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From reducing your carbon footprint to increasing your monthly savings, there are plenty of reasons to embrace solar energy. However, just because you’re ready to bring sustainable options into your life doesn’t mean your property is. Use the following guide to learn what determines whether your roof will support a set of solar panels.

The Roofing

One of the most important elements in the solar panel installation equation is the framing that supports your roof. Through a structural analysis of your roofing system, your installer can make an educated decision about whether it’s in good enough condition to support the panels. They’ll take into account the shape and slope of your roof as well as the quality of the beams underneath it. 

You also need to think about the age of your roof—if it’s nearing the end of the material’s average life span, you might have to replace it in a few years, so a solar installation wouldn’t be cost-effective.

While asphalt shingle roofs are only expected to last for 15 to 25 years, metal roofs can stand strong for 40 to 70 years. Since solar panels last around 25 years, you’ll want your roof to remain in good condition for at least that long.

The Solar Panel System

solar panelYour roof will not only have to hold the solar photovoltaic (PV) cells but also support the mounting infrastructure. The average set of solar panels and essential hardware weighs around three to four pounds per square foot. Therefore, a weaker roof might require solar panels on the lighter end of that spectrum. Most residential roofs built in recent years are capable of supporting over three pounds per square foot, but you should still consider the total weight and configuration of your PV system. 

You’ll also need to think about the spatial requirements of the system. If the average residential system measures 65 inches by 39 inches, and a set of 20 solar panels is 27-by-13 feet long, you’ll need at least 352 square feet of surface area on your roof to support the full set.

 

If you’re wondering whether your roof can support a solar panel installation, reach out to Solar Help Hawaii of Honolulu. Providing all of Oahu with five-year warranties on their work and products, you can rest easy knowing your investment is covered. To learn more about their other solar products, such as attic fans and water heaters, visit the website. Call (808) 548-4357 to schedule a consultation.

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