Is Your Roof Ready for Solar Panels?

Make sure your roof is healthy before installing solar panels.
March 12, 2024

Is Your Roof Ready for Solar Panels?

A solar panel roof can significantly reduce your energy bills and make your home more energy-efficient. However, not all roofing systems can support the installation of rooftop solar panels. At Harford Roofing & Exteriors, we can perform an inspection to see if your roof is in good enough condition to accommodate solar panels in Northern Maryland. These are the factors we will consider when performing our inspection.

The Type of Roof & Roofing Materials

The ideal slope for roof solar panel installation is between 15-40 degrees. Roof solar panels are easiest to install on sloped roofs, but if you have a flat roof, you may still be able to install solar panels. Your roofing materials will need to be strong and durable to support the added weight of the solar panels. Flat roofs that are constructed of tar and gravel are not ideal for rooftop solar panel installation. Your roof decking must also be in good condition. If it is warped, rotten, sagging, moldy or mildewy, or water damaged, you will need roof repair or roof replacement.

The Age and Condition of Your Roof

Your asphalt or shingle roof should be less than 10 years old to support the installation of solar panels. If your roof is over 10 years old, we will perform a roofing inspection to determine if it can accommodate solar panel installation. Old, damaged, leaking roofs will need repair or replacement before solar panels can be installed.

The Size or Square Footage of Your Roof

The size of your roof will also impact whether it can accommodate rooftop solar panels. We will need a large surface area on which to install the solar panels in order to comply with building codes.

Learn More About Rooftop Solar Panel Installation near Bel Air, Maryland

If you’re interested in finding out if your roof can support a roof solar panel installation near Bel Air, Maryland, our roofing contractors at Harford Roofing & Exteriors can help. Call us today at (443) 292-6020 for an onsite roofing inspection, or request a quote today.