Solar panels have become increasingly popular across the United States. Whether it’s for the environment, energy independence, or tax incentives, there are plenty of reasons to go solar.
However, if you’re looking to make the switch, you need to be sure your property meets the right requirements. For many homeowners, that means having a roof that’s suitable for solar panels.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best roof for solar panels and how you can get your home ready for solar panel installation.
The Best Roof for Solar Panels: Basic Requirements
If you live in the northern hemisphere, you’ll want to have a roof that faces the South or Southwest. This orientation will allow the solar panels to absorb enough solar energy to appropriately power a home.
Your roof should also be free from large amounts of shade. This means it shouldn’t be covered by large trees, neighboring homes, or other types of blockages.
Additionally, the angle of your roof plays a key part in panel performance. If you want to install solar panels for roof mounting, the optimal pitch for your roof is anywhere between 30 and 45 degrees.
The Right Roof Material
The material your roof is constructed of is also important. Though solar panels can be installed on most roof materials, some will help them absorb more energy than others.
The best materials to provide a solid foundation for your solar panels include:
Asphalt Shingles
Shingles, specifically those made of asphalt, are the most common roofs in the US. They’re also the best for solar panel installation.
Solar panels can easily be mounted on shingled roofs with a little drilling. If they meet the basic requirements, they’ll help your solar panels work at the optimal level.
Metal Roofs
If you’ve got a metal roof with standing seams, you’ve got the perfect roof for solar panel installation. The standing seams help to lower the cost of installation because you won’t need to do any drilling to attach your panels. Instead, they can easily attach to the seams themselves.
Additionally, metal roofs help to reflect sunlight. This provides your panels with more power, even when the sky is a bit dim.
Tar and Gravel Roofs
Even those with flat-top roofs may want to take advantage of state solar incentives. Luckily, despite their flat tops, tar and gravel roofs can be good candidates for solar installation because of the sturdy base they provide.
You’ll want to be sure your panels are still at an angle when installed, though. This is easily done with the proper equipment. Your solar panel provider will help to place them in the ideal position.
Join the Solar Craze
Now that you know more about the best roof for solar panels, you can help convert your home to total solar energy independence. Solar panels can be a great addition to your home and your lifestyle.
To learn more about elevating your life, check out our Lifestyle section today.
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