Are you ready to make the switch to solar for your home? Solar panels are not only environmentally friendly but also help you save money on your electricity bills. It might be tempting to wonder what options are available when you replace your roof with solar panels. We can help you understand the options.
Before you replace your roof with solar panel, there are some things you should consider. You should assess the roof’s condition, research the various solar options and do an accurate cost analysis.
It may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry. We will walk you through each step.
What is your Roof’s Condition?
Is it necessary to replace your roof because you are switching to solar? It’s not necessary. It’s more rational to evaluate the state of your roof before making any major decisions. This will save you time and money.
Solar panels can be placed on any roof provided there is sufficient sunlight and enough space. Solar panels average 40 lbs. in weight.
If your roof is weak or damaged, it could end up sinking under the weight.
Although your roof might look like a simple collection of tiles and shingles, the structure is far more complex than that. Multiple layers make up your roof. They all work together to insulate and protect your home.
A typical roof is generally made from:
- Roof Truss
- Insulation
- Water and ice barriers
- Decking
- Underlayment
- Shingles and tiles
- Wooden frame
The entire structure of your roof will be affected if any of these components is damaged. How can one tell if the roof has been damaged?
How do you check the condition of your roof?
Wait a minute. Do not climb up the ladder. You can do a few things without taking the ladder out of your garage. Check for leaks and stains from the ceiling.
Excessive ventilation may be responsible for your recent increase in electricity bills.
Here are some of the most common ways that roofs can be damaged:
- Broken or loose tiles
- Water Damage
- Punctures and cracks
- Structure Damage
- Material for Worn Down
Take a look at your roof to check for any damage. A professional roof inspection might be an option if you find one.
Replacing a roof with solar panels: Money is important
Think about it. You have solar panels installed and your roof isn’t changing. Your roof suddenly starts to sag.
You will need to pay an additional fee for the removal and reinstallation of the panels. In some cases, you may even endanger your solar panels.
You won’t generate electricity even though the panels are off. This will mean that your electricity bill will increase during this time.
While replacing your roof with solar panels might seem expensive initially, in the long-term, it will save you a lot of money. You have many options for solar panel financing that will help you make an informed decision.
You have the option to choose the one that makes sense to you.
Before calling Nevada Solar Group solar shingle installation team, we recommend that you do a cost analysis. This will give you a better understanding of the cost and benefits over time.
Why is it better to replace your roof before installing solar shingles?
We have seen that roof replacement can be very expensive. It is an option that can be cheaper. This is a one-time expense that will pay off in the long-term.
Your roof is a key factor in the insulation of your home. Your roof’s ability to properly insulate is affected by how often you have to run the AC during summers and heat in winters.
A new roof can also increase the value of your house. You don’t have to spend too much on it if you decide to sell.
Nevada Solar Group can replace your roof
It is not difficult to find a roofer and a separate solar company that installs solar panels.
Let us tell you a little secret. It’s possible to save time and avoid putting in extra effort by choosing a solar company that does both. You read that correctly. Nevada Solar Group offers services to install solar panels and replace roofs.
Although it would be wonderful to have a free roof replacement using solar panels, this is not usually possible. The cost of both jobs can be reduced if they are done by Nevada Solar Group.
Nevada Solar Group offers roof replacements and solar installation at significant savings. The company offers financing options that make it more affordable to install solar panels on a flat roofing.
The Best Roof for Solar Panels
Once you have decided to install solar panels in your home, it is time to plan the details of the array. Solar panels will be installed on the roof of your home. It is important to understand how different roof types can affect this process.
Solar panels can be fitted on most roofing types. However, not all rooftop solar arrays will produce the same amount produce electricity. A solar panel with optimum performance should be placed at a 30 degree angle, facing south or southwest. This angle can be achieved by attaching brackets to flat roofs. See how your roof compares.
Solar Common Roof Types
Composite
Composite roofing has become the most popular type of roof. This is why there are many people who want to install solar panels onto their composite roofing. This roof type uses composite roofing or asphalt roofing. They are made of a fiberglass mat or cellulose. The final product is then made from asphalt and other minerals. Composite roofing offers many benefits. Composite roofing is more affordable, can be modified to look like any other material, and has a long life expectancy. Composite roofs are among the most popular solar panel installation options.
Tile
Some other common construction method that can be discovered in most communities is tile roofing. Tiles can be made from a variety of materials. It is critical to understand the materials before you begin. Solar panel installation on clay tiles can be more expensive than on concrete tiles.
To connect a solar panel array to a tile roof, a bracket will be required. The panels will be able to be raised above the roof as a result of this. The distance the panels must be raised is determined by the material to make them. Furthermore, the cost of the panels will be determined by the cost of the tiles.
Metal Standing Seam
Metal roofing is the best type of roof for solar panel installation. These roofs have standing seams that make attaching the panels easy and cost-effective. This roof type does not require drilling holes in your roof.
Metal roofing is also more environmentally friendly than other types of roofing. They can last up to 30 years and are made from recycled materials. Standing seams on metal roofs allow for the installation of thin and standard PV panels. These roofs also reflect significant amounts of sunlight that isn’t being absorbed by solar panels, which can lead to cooling effects.
Gravel and Tar
Tar and gravel roofs consist of layers of sheets, which are attached with roofing felt and hot tar. Other mineral coatings may also be added. These flat roofs may need additional brackets that can tilt at a 30-degree angle. Although this is easy to do, it will cost more than installing on a tilted or other material roof. It is still an option for installing solar panels.
Wooden Roofs
They are the last type of roof you’ll see in most neighborhoods. Wooden roofs can have shingles that are either flat or at angles. The details will depend on how the solar roof panels is constructed. A wooden roof is not suitable for solar panels due to fire safety issues. Although rooftop solar is not the best option for you, it won’t stop you from going solar. You can also consider community solar or ground-mounted systems.
Solar panels for any Type of Roof
There will always be a way to put a solar array on your roof if you want it. There are many options available to make your roof more efficient if the roof’s natural structure or materials aren’t suitable. However, the amount of customization will directly affect the cost of your system. You can get 30% off your Federal Solar Tax Credit if you need a new roof to install solar.
What does a Solar Roof actually cost?
Consider that not all rooftop solar systems are created equal. Properly designed rooftop solar systems should be tailored to your home. This includes considerations such as the pitch of the roof, your home’s orientation relative to the Sun, shade from nearby trees, chimneys, vents, and typical household energy consumption. This information is used by Nevada Solar Group to determine the size and location of the panels for your roof. The average cost of a system will be affected by any rebates or subsidies that are available, as well as any add-ons that you choose to buy with it.
Before you buy or install rooftop solar panels, Nevada Solar Group will thoroughly explain the estimate to you. This is the best time to ask any questions you may have about your system before signing up.
Good news: The average cost of rooftop solar systems has dropped over the last few years. This makes it more affordable than ever for homeowners to install solar panels, especially considering all the options that are available to them.
Rooftop Solar: Buying Options
Today, there are three options for purchasing a rooftop solar system: cash purchase, loan/financing, or Power Purchase Agreement. (Or a lease in areas that Power Purchase Agreements do not exist).
Cash Purchase
It’s easy as pie. You can buy your rooftop solar system in cash and pay no interest or monthly fees.
You can buy a rooftop solar system for cash and immediately increase your home’s worth.
Ask about maintenance and operation fees when getting an estimate from a provider of solar energy for cash purchases. Rooftop solar panels are very easy to maintain and come with warranties of up to 20 years. This shouldn’t be a problem.
Loan/Financing
A loan might be an option if you don’t have the funds to buy a new solar system. A loan allows you to keep the roof solar panels, pay the loan over time and still get the benefits of renewable energy and electricity savings. Solar loans are very affordable because there are usually no upfront costs.
You have many options when it comes to solar loans. Nevada Solar Group partners with third-party loan providers. Special government programs grant loans for rooftop solar panels. PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy), a government program that funds projects that improve energy efficiency, is an example. Although the PACE program is subject to change depending on where you live, many homeowners have the option of paying their property taxes for rooftop solar panels. You can also apply for a personal loan through a bank or credit union if none of the above loan options work.
Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
A PPA is required for most solar users in the U.S. A PPA doesn’t cost you the rooftop solar panels but the power they produce. The rooftop solar panels are owned by the solar provider, and you only pay for the solar energy they produce.
PPAs can be understood by looking at the relationship between you and your electric utility company. Your electric utility generates electricity, which you are charged for each month. A solar PPA is like having a power station on your roof. However, the power comes from a huge ball of fire located about 92.96 millions miles away.
The amount that you pay for solar energy produced on your roof will depend on where you live and who you work with. However, the average Nevada Solar Group will charge a lower rate than your electric utility for power. This is how savings work. You get a lower average rate and your home will use less power. This can lead to savings each year. This is a sweet deal for both the electric companies and you. Unfortunately, PPAs may not be available in all states. Don’t worry if a PPA doesn’t exist in your state, you might be eligible for a solar lease.
Solar Lease
Solar leases are similar to PPAs in that you don’t have to pay upfront for the rooftop solar panels. Typically, Nevada Solar Group will take care of maintenance, warranty, and installation. A solar lease is technically a contract that you pay for the equipment of your rooftop solar panels. This should not be confusing. The solar energy system is not yours to buy. You’re simply paying for the use of the equipment. You’ll be charged a monthly fixed payment to lease the property from Nevada Solar Group, just like a house or car rental.
A solar lease has the best advantage: Nevada Solar Group that is reliable will give you an estimate of what your rooftop solar panels can produce. Nevada Solar Group will even give you a check if your rooftop solar panels produce less energy than expected.
Solar Panel Roof Company
Our energy specialists have installed more than 3.6GW of clean solar energy on 400,000 roofs. This is equivalent to 10 million traditional solar panel installations. We take care of all aspects, from design to power-on. If you have any questions about Solar Roof shingles, you can contact us.
Solar Roof tiles can power your home using a fully integrated solar-storage system. Each tile is seamless and complements your home’s natural aesthetics. Talk to an energy advisor if you have any questions about going green with Nevada Solar Group.