Can solar panels damage your roof?
If your solar panels are installed properly, they shouldn’t cause any damage to your roof. You shouldn't have any issues if you work with a licensed installer. Here are a few factors that can factor into the impact that solar has on your roof.
Proper Installation
Though it may be tempting to install solar panels on your own roof as a DIY project, this can end poorly if you don’t have training or experience. Solar installation requires specialized skills and tools. Not only can improperly installed solar panels be less effective at producing energy, but they can also damage your roof.
System Size
Knowing your solar panels’ sizes and weight is the best way to determine if your roof can support an entire system. Weight can vary depending on the brand, but the average weight of a standard-size solar panel is 40 pounds. However, they can range anywhere between 38 to 51 pounds.
Roof Maintenance
Before you begin a solar installation, you should ensure your roof is ready. You can hire a contractor to look for loose shingles, cracks, pooling water, or any other damage. The contractor can remove debris and make necessary repairs to ensure your roof is ready for solar installation. By fixing roof damage before installation, you can prevent damage that may be harder to access after your system is installed.