When it comes to your roofing material, you want one that is durable and long-lasting. Adding solar panels to your roof can help to extend the life of your roof. Here are some ways solar panels can keep your awning in top shape for many years.
How Can Solar Panels Extend the Life of Your Roof?
Solar panels are more durable than other roofing materials. This is because they have no moving parts and can withstand high winds and heavy snow loads. Solar panels usually last about 25-30 years, depending on maintenance.
When added to your awning, this material can extend the life of your roof. Solar panels protect your roof from the sun’s rays. These boards absorb the sunlight usually directly absorbed by your shingles. This helps prevent them from bleaching and drying out.
Another way the solar panels protect your roof is by cooling it down. Air flows between the panels and your awning, reducing the temperature inside by about 38%. The cool air also allows your roof shingles to work more efficiently.
The durable material protects your awning from inclement weather, such as snow. With fewer repairs needed, your roof will last longer.
The Benefits of Solar Panels
One of the main benefits of solar panels is it saves you money by lowering your electricity bill. The average household could save around $1,390 per year on their energy payments.
Besides the savings, solar panels are also beneficial to the environment. They use a renewable source of energy instead of fossil fuel. This reduces the emission of greenhouse gases into the air. In 2019, power plants burning coal, natural gas and petroleum fuel accounted for 99% of the U.S. electricity-related carbon dioxide emissions. Using solar panels can also slow down climate change.
Preparing for Solar Installation
Before installing the panels, consider getting your roof inspected. A professional can verify that your roof is structurally sound. If there are any signs of weakness, dry rot, or leaks, you should get your roof repaired.
There are two types of roofing contractors you could hire-independent roofing contractors or roofing companies. Independent contractors are good for quick repairs, but roofing companies are better for larger jobs. To find the right professional verify they have a current license and ask for references.
The Solar Installation Process
It costs around $12,00 to install solar panels, and the process can take between one and four months. Here are the general steps for installing solar panels onto your roof.
1. Purchase Your Solar Equipment
There are two main pieces of equipment-panels and inverters. Your installer will likely provide you with recommendations for both. Although, you may want to do your research to help you make a more informed decision. Consider bird proofing solar panels to prevent pesky birds from taking over your panels.
2. A Solar Engineer Will Visit Your Property
Once you sign a contract, an engineer will visit your home. They will ensure your roof can handle the panel’s weight and check that your circuit breaker is functioning properly. After verifying your roof is structurally safe, you can move on to the next step of the process.
3. Fill Out the Paperwork
Your installer should handle most of the complicated paperwork. However, you should understand what is being filed where. Your installer may also help you fill out paperwork for local building permits and restrictions. Your solar system may need to meet a minimum fire-resistant rating.
Once you fill out all the paperwork and get approved, the contractor orders the equipment.
4. Leave It to the Pros
The installation process should only take a few days. First, the installer will prepare your roof and make sure it is still structurally sound. Then they will install the electrical wiring connecting your panels to the power system. Racking is attached to your roof to support your boards. The last step is to connect the inverters to the panels.
5. One Final Check
A local government official must approve your installer’s work before your new panels can be connected to the grid. The inspector is looking for any faulty wiring or violations of electric codes. Once approved, your local electric company sends a representative to connect your solar panels to the grid.
Consider Investing in Solar Panels
You want to find a roofing material durable enough to protect the interior of your home. Solar panels are an excellent choice and can extend the life of your roof. They may be more costly but save you money in the long run. So, consider solar panels for your next roof replacement.
Bio:
Jane is the Editor-in-Chief of Environment.co and an environmental writer covering green technology, sustainability and environmental news.
