Whether you’re looking to lower your power bills or decrease your carbon footprint, there’s never been a better time to go solar. Your roof is a sensible place to install a solar panel system. What you may wonder, though, is how solar panels will affect your roof. In virtually all cases, solar panels will only cause damage to a roof if fitted incorrectly.
Solar Panels Won’t Cause Roof Damage When Installed Properly
The potential for solar panels to cause damage to your roof stems from the method of installation. If done incorrectly, putting in racking and installing solar panels can alter your roof’s structural makeup.
Traditional solar panel installation involves making holes in your roof in order to secure the racking that will hold the panels. During installation, nails and bolts are driven through the roofing and into the attic. Your roof’s foundation and type of material will determine the size and depth of the holes.
Unsurprisingly, holes can lead to leaks forming over time. Failure to securely fit the racking can allow water to seep through the holes, increasing the possibility of water damage, rot, and mold growth.
It’s important that you work with a certified roofing contractor who will abide by strict solar panel installation measures to ensure that your roof stays watertight and structurally sound.
To prevent water from seeping through the holes, the bolt fixture should be surrounded by flashing. Flashing is a thin metal or plastic sheet that fits under the existing roofing material to cover open spaces and seal out moisture. It is then sealed with tar or another weatherproof sealant. The holes are also filled with a sealant to protect against water seepage.
Preventing Roof Damage After Installing Solar Panels
When it comes to solar panel installation, you’ll want to make sure your roof is in good condition with no weak spots, damage, or holes. Adding solar panels to a roof with existing damage or a roof that can’t handle the extra weight can prove disastrous. Failure to address issues prior to installation can be one of the causes of roof damage.
Your roofing contractor will inspect your roof, pinpoint potential issues, and make a plan for installing the panels. This is an effective defense against damage.
If you’re considering going solar, Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters is your trusted partner in Southern New Hampshire and the Northern Massachusetts area. We ensure that your solar panels will fit with no issues and that no damage is done to your roof. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
