When tackling a construction project, we often prioritize its costs, performance, and design. But aside from these, there are several crucial factors you must consider as well. Sustainability is one of the most significant ones, and it’s gaining rapid traction in the sector due to the lasting benefits to house owners and the surroundings. 

Roof repair and replacement can be some of the expensive renovations you can tackle. After all, your roof takes all the beating from the harsh elements—making them partially responsible for your house’s heat loss and gain. With this in mind, picking a sturdy and energy-efficient material should be one of your priorities.

What Makes a Roof Sustainable?

The more raw materials a roof has, the more environmentally friendly it is. In other words, these items should be made without reducing or damaging its resources. And the sourcing of the material shouldn’t leave significant or irreparable damage to the environment. Any roofing material using fossil fuels or mined materials doesn’t fit the category, since both come from non-renewable resources.

Here are the factors that make up an environmentally friendly roof.

Energy Efficiency

Eco-friendly roofs reduce heat gain and loss from your home, making it more energy-efficient. Knowing this is information is crucial as 10% to 15% of house heat loss occurs via the roof. 

Embodied Energy

Embodied energy showcases the total power used to make the roofing product. These include mining, processing, and energy consumption. 

Recycling & Reusability

The production of environmentally friendly roofing materials should use recycled or reusable products. Aside from that, manufacturers should aim for total reusability, limiting or eliminating landfill waste. 

Durability

Sturdy and eco-friendly roofing materials sustain their integrity for their entire expected life span. They should also withstand wind, fire, debris, snow, ice, hail, and moisture. Moreover, a durable roof decreases the need for replacement, reducing the usage of natural resources and landfill space. 

Contributes to a Healthier Ecosystem

Environmentally friendly roofing materials don’t damage the environment during production or application. They shouldn’t release or emit toxic chemicals as well. 

Environmentally Friendly Roofing Options

Slate Roofing

Slate is appealing and incredibly sturdy, and it can help you protect your home and surroundings in the long run. Although it requires a lot of resources for mining, processing, and transporting, its durability makes up for it.

After all, slate roofing can even outlast your home! It’s a better and more sustainable option over time. And while mining stone isn’t the most eco-friendly upfront, the results are worthwhile. 

Wood Shakes & Shingles

Although wooden materials aren’t the most environmentally friendly, wood shakes and shingles are! They are the only sustainable roofing materials you can get your hands on, as long as they come from a sustainably harvested source. 

Wood shakes and shingles production is only moderately energy-intensive. In short, it doesn’t need many resources, making it more environmentally friendly. But the downside is that it isn’t as durable as slate. Still, wooden shakes and shingles can last you for over two decades with proper upkeep. 

You also don’t need to worry when replacing your wood shakes and shingles, as they’re 100% biodegradable. As long as they haven’t gotten treated with artificial additives or preservatives, they shouldn’t harm your surroundings. 

Overall, wood shakes and shingles are one of the most sustainable options, primarily if you reside in an area producing them from FSC-certified wood. 

Asphalt (Composite) Shingles

Asphalt shingles are moderately sturdy, offering excellent heat reflectivity—depending on their design and color. Usually, shingles are made from paper, minerals, tar, fiberglass, and other petroleum products.

So, while they are durable enough to last you a few years, they aren’t the most sustainable option over time. Still, it’s a cheaper alternative you should consider. 

Recycled Shingles

One of the greenest roofing options are recycled shingles! These can be made from different waste materials, from plastic to wood fibers. And some might be from clean post-consumer or post-industrial waste. Either way, recycled shingles are incredibly sturdy and look fantastic! 

These help decrease landfill waste while reducing the need to extract and process raw or natural materials. And once these recycled shingles go past their expected lifespan, you can recycle them again!

Metal Roofing

Although metal roofing materials require a lot of energy to make, they last a while and look fantastic! Moreover, they also use high-recycled content and are recyclable after surpassing their expected lifespan. But beware; metal roofs need proper insulation as they are highly heat-compulsive. Even if they can reduce heat gain, it pays to be aware of your options. 

Concrete Tile & Fiber-Cement Roofing

Concrete tiles and fiber cement roofing materials are often made using Portland cement, and producing it involves energy-intensive processes. Not to mention they also create high amounts of CO2 emissions.

Still, they are incredibly durable, making them a more sustainable option over time. But as sturdy as they are against the different outdoor elements, walking on them is not a good idea. 

Remember, although they look similar to slate, they are much lighter!

Clay Tile Roofs (Terra Cotta)

Clay tiles are heavy, expensive, and durable. Authentic tiles are made from natural clay shaped and produced like ceramic tiles. Some variations come with “special” glazes or coats of paints for added appeal and durability. Overall, the clay used for these tiles comes from plentiful resources, whereas many manufacturers claim them to be sustainable. 

Green Roof Systems (Living Roofs)

Green roof systems, a.k.a living roofs, are low-slope or flat roofs partially or wholly covered with vegetation. And these are either in the forms of grass or small plants, primarily species native to the local area. Aside from that, green roofs may also have growing mediums (made from soil or inorganic materials) and an artificial waterproof membrane. 

So, even though green roof systems can be expensive to install and maintain, they’re 100% worthwhile. They offer many benefits, including absorbing rainwater and providing insulation for your house. Meanwhile, they can also help decrease heat in urban areas gathered from concrete and other building items. 

The downside to green roofs is that they depend heavily on rubber membranes to waterproof the roof. These are often made from petroleum, which isn’t the most sustainable resource. Aside from that, green roofs are also heavy and need additional framing for support.

Cool (White) Roofs

One of the fastest-growing trends in the roofing industry, cool roofs, are made of a combination of white gravel and white adhesive. Because of the colors and materials used, these roofs are said to block the sun’s UV rays. It also helps keep the house from getting too hot, so you don’t have to use your air conditioner as much.

Installing cool roofs will save a lot of money you would have spent buying and setting up cooling machines. These roofing materials can also help stop carbon emissions. Since you won’t need to use air conditioners, you’ll use less energy in your home. And because they don’t soak up as much heat from the sun as other roofs do, these roofs last longer.

Solar Roofs

Solar panels and tiles are both types of solar roofing. Solar panels need a solid roof to sit on. Solar tiles, on the other hand, have solar cells built into conventional roofing materials like metals and shingles.

Solar roofing captures the sunlight and transforms it into useful electricity by harnessing the sun’s natural energy. It’s an eco-friendly roofing material that can make a significant reduction in your monthly energy costs. Since they both get energy from the sun, they do not add to air pollution.

Unfortunately, installing a solar roof is cost-prohibitive, keeping many people from opting for it. Solar roofs also need sunlight to work, so they must be placed in areas with enough sunlight exposure.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Eco-friendly Roof

Coatings

Zinc and copper coatings on roofing materials should be avoided at all costs since they can easily be washed into sources of water and are toxic to aquatic life.

Recycled Content

Check to see if there are any recycled contents in the roofing material. Most of the time, the higher the percentage of recycled content is, the better – but in the end, durability wins. Also, ensure the material can be recycled again when the roof is no longer useful.

Upkeep

No one looks forward to the annual expense and inconvenience of roof maintenance. Roofing should be long-lasting, and it should not require the use of any harmful chemicals in its upkeep.

Color and Reflectivity 

If you reside in an area that experiences a lot of heat throughout the year, you should search for roofing materials that are light in color and have high reflectivity. They will reflect more of the sun’s rays, which will prevent your house from overheating like an oven.

Weight

Theoretically, the best roof would seem to be the one that weighs the most because it would be the most sturdy and unlikely to come off in strong winds. However, the current structure of your home must be able to sustain the weight of the new roofing material.

Roof Pitch

Is your roof almost flat, has a low pitch, or has a steep slope? Depending on the situation, some roofing materials work much better than others.

Warranty 

Choose roofing materials with the most extended warranty available, as this is a solid indicator of both the material’s quality and longevity.

Conclusion

For a better and cleaner home, choosing green roofing options is the way to go! And with eco-friendly roofing materials, you are making your house and the world a better place to live in simultaneously. Consider the roofing options mentioned above when getting a new home or renovating. If you’re struggling to choose a roofing material, discuss your options and contact a reliable roofing contractor in New York.

Are you thinking about saving energy by investing in a solar rooftop? It’s cost-efficient and sustainable, but there are some things to know before installing one. Here’s a list of things to consider before getting solar panels for your roof. 

Does Your Roof Require Any Repair?

If your roof has been around for a while, you’ll want to repair or replace it before installing the solar panels. That’s because you may face extra costs if you change or fix your roof after installation. You’ll need to remove the solar panels, address the roof issue, and install them again! 

If you’re unsure of your roof’s condition, contact a reliable roofing contractor to take a look. With their assessment, you should be able to determine the best action for your roof.

How Much Weight Can Your Roof Take?

One of the first things you must check before getting solar panels for your roof is how much weight your roof can handle. Expect to pay heftier fees if your roof can’t take the weight! 

Generally, solar panels weigh around 2 to 4 pounds per square foot, staying within your roof’s acceptable limits. Although that might not sound a lot, this is often in concentrated amounts as contractors aim to reduce the number of roof penetration. And these point loads are crucial. 

So, before investing in solar panels, ensure your solar mounting plan fits your roof first. You can discuss this with a structural engineer for better results. 

What’s Your Roof’s Shape?

Roofs come in various sizes and shapes, so ensure yours has adequate space to accommodate the solar panels. If your roof doesn’t have enough room, you won’t get the ROI you expect. 

What Direction Does Your Roof’s Slopes Face?

Solar panels need particular placements to generate the maximum amount of power. Generally, experts advise the best arrangement for solar panels is south or west. This info is essential to know before the installation begins.

How Will You Connect the Solar Panels to the Grid?

When installing solar panels, you can connect them to the grid or have them off-grid, storing the energy in batteries. Most houses have solar systems connected to the grid using the Net Metering system. It’s an incentive to give you credit on your bill for the solar array’s excess power.

Meanwhile, if you’re using an off-grid system, it won’t be connected to the utility or city electric bill. Instead, you’ll need extensive storage capacity to save solar energy.

Where Will the Excess Water Go on Your Roof?

Water will run down your roof whenever it rains, often going to the gutters and out of your house. But installing solar panels does well in preventing water from draining and flowing. The wirings and cables can block the channels or move the water in different directions, which may cause leaks and other issues. 

You’ll need to remove the solar panels on your roof before you can address those issues. So, to prevent such problems, ensure you inform your contractors of any concerns you may have regarding the drainage. They’ll be able to create an efficient plan that won’t hinder the water runoff. 

Should You Consider Nature’s Never-Ending Surprises?

A part of maintaining a solar rooftop is dealing with the harsh outdoor elements. These include severe weather conditions such as hurricanes, hails, and storms. There’s a chance your solar power equipment can get damaged during these times. Although insurance can cover these damages, it’s best to consider nature’s never-ending surprises. 

Have You Shopped Around?

Before signing a contract with installers, ensure you’ve done your research. Choosing the first contractor might seem convenient and money-saving, but it’ll cost you more bills in the long run. So, if you’re keen on installing solar panels on your rooftop, shop around and get quotes from contractors. Aside from that, research these companies and ensure they’re reputable and have decent customer feedback. 

After speaking with some contractors, you’ll be happy you did! This way, you can compare different quotes, reviews, and other info—helping you make better and more informed decisions.

What to Consider When Signing a Contract?

Once you’re ready to form a contract with the solar panel installers, you need to keep an eye out for a few things, such as:

• • Financing, ownership, and performance expectations
  • Entities that may collect data on electricity production and usage
  • Businesses with access to electricity production and usage data

If none of these are apparent in the contract, ask the contractor for some clarifications. Remember, never sign anything you’re not happy with.

Do You Trust Your Contractor?

Installing a solar rooftop is a home and electrical improvement project. That’s why when you begin searching for a contractor, you must ensure they have the proper credentials and experience. For instance, you may ask them if they have legitimate accreditation from the NABCEP. 

Aside from that, picking a contractor you feel will be around for a while is also crucial. While there’s minimal maintenance required, if something malfunctions, you’d naturally want the same contractor to be available to repair it under warranty.

Have You Chosen the Least Expensive Option?

As tempting as lower prices are, cheap solar panels rarely equate to better return in investments. While technology has become inexpensive over the past years, investing in cheaper brands or models will cost you more in the long run. After all, they usually use low-end materials in making cheap solar panels.

Investing in low-quality solar panels is not a good idea because they have low ROI and can even affect your savings. Or worse, these low-quality solar panels may damage your home or hurt people! What you don’t want is to set ablaze your house. 

Remember to invest time and money into the right solar panels to get the best value for money. They’re guaranteed to last longer and give you a higher ROI.

What About Warranties?

You should ensure your solar panels and other equipment are safe by securing a warranty. Having a guarantee on your solar panels gives you the legal right to demand compensation from the company responsible for any damage. 

A standard industry warranty asserts that after 20 years of use, the panels will still produce at least 80% of their rated power. Check with the company that does your solar roofing to ensure they offer a good warranty and will fix your system for free and without any trouble.

If the manufacturer gets bought or goes out of business, you should find out what will happen to your warranty.  The law requires publicly traded companies in the United States to set aside funds for warranty claims. In comparison, other firms may provide warranty insurance.

Do You Have the Right Insurance?

It is crucial that you think about getting insurance to protect yourself and your property in the event of any damage occurring during the installation process. Many issues might develop during the installation of your solar panels, and you might not even consider them until they happen. In addition, numerous regulations, rebate programs, and legal codes demand proof of insurance before any project can begin. Contacting the appropriate authorities in your state before starting a project is essential since these rules and regulations differ from one jurisdiction to the next.

Did You Take Advantage of Rebates?

The installation of a solar panel system in your home can cost around $10,000 to $30,000. The good news is that many states, cities, and solar panel companies in the US offer rebates when you decide on installing solar panels on your roof. Ask your solar installation contractor if they have rebate options before your project begins.

Overall, the government is trying to pique people’s interest in solar energy investment. Through rebates and tax credits, the Department of Energy offers savings of up to 30%. Your local electricity and utility companies may also offer discounts.

Can You Really DIY?

Installing solar panels is a job for certified professionals. Period. If you haven’t had any training in the installation process, a lot of things could go wrong. These are prime examples:

Wiring Problems: Solar panel installation job requires you to work with electrical equipment. If you set it up wrong, you put yourself and others at risk of hazardous electric shocks. Always have an electrician do any electrical work.

Roof damage: To install solar panels, you have to make holes in the roof. If you don’t seal these holes right, you will cause damage to your roof, which may cause leaks.

Safety Standards and Code Compliance: A licensed specialist must install solar panels to preserve the product’s warranties. These warranties will be voided if you install them yourself. You wouldn’t be eligible for compensation if you damaged the solar panels while installing or if there is a fault with the manufacturing process. In addition, if you are unaware of the building permits and other relevant rules and regulations, it will be difficult for you to comply with them. To avoid the rejection of your solar panel installation, you must carefully complete all the necessary paperwork.

Don’t Forget About Maintenance

Regular maintenance checks will ensure that your solar panels will last as long as possible and that your roof stays in good shape. It’s essential to ask your contractor about these maintenance steps before the installation begins. If you cannot keep up with the necessary maintenance, your equipment may not last as long as you’d expect.

Conclusion

Knowing this information beforehand can save you time, money, and effort. As a result, you’ll be able to choose the right solar panels for your rooftop, saving energy—and the environment. 

Rooftop solar panels are becoming increasingly affordable, and installing them in your home is a wise investment. Besides the obvious financial benefits, you’ll also see a reduction in your carbon impact and an improvement in your home’s resale price.

You’ve done your homework and are ready to install solar panels on your roof. Contact a reputable solar panel installation company in New York for more information about solar panel installation and upkeep.

Are you thinking of the best time to replace your roof? Regardless of the size of your house, this is a crucial decision you must consider carefully. After all, you want to ensure you find the best roofer in Kingston, NY, the roof gets appropriately installed, and the weather cooperates throughout the project. 

Although most consider fall the best season for roof replacements, let’s look at your options below!

Roof Replacement

Some reasons might be more or less in demand for replacing roofs depending on the weather, client needs, and temperatures outside. Consequently, choosing the best season for replacing your roof is also a crucial part of the planning.  

Seasonal demands vary depending on your area’s climate and conditions. So, if you’re unsure of what seasons are busy and slow for roof replacement, contact a roofing company around your area who can answer your queries. 

Although choosing the best season for your roof replacement is crucial, there are some situations where you may need immediate interventions. Here are a few scenarios where you need service fast:

• • Your roof has missing shingles.
  • You have exposed light. 
  • You spot damaged flashings. 

In those scenarios, it’s best to act as fast as possible. But, if you have some time to spare, here are the pros and cons of roof replacement during each season.

Fall (September to November)

Pros of Fall Roof Replacement

Most roofers consider fall to be the best time for a roof replacement due to the following reasons:

• • It ensures comfortable temperatures throughout the day, ideal for the roofers and shingles!
  • Mild weather. 
  • Ideal timing. 

Temperatures during fall range from 45 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, offering ideal working conditions for roofers—letting them complete the job in time! The perfect temperatures matched with lower humidity give your shingles the time to seal before entering the snowy months.

Although fall might bring more precipitation than other seasons, as storms are still in effect at this time, rain showers are less likely to happen for the most part. 

Cons of Fall Roof Replacement

Since many consider fall the best season for roof replacement, expect roofers to be busy in September, October, and November. Aside from that, since summer is also a busy season, jobs from that season may spill into fall. All these mean that you might not be able to secure a schedule for roof replacement during these times. 

Aside from that, roofers may also work longer hours with fewer weather delays during fall, letting them complete their jobs quicker than anticipated—allowing the roofing contractor’s replacement schedule to stay on time.

So, if you’re considering replacing your roof during fall, you must plan for at least 1 or 2 months in advance. Contact your preferred roofers to get quotes and set a schedule to secure your spot during this prime season. 

Spring (March to May)

Pros of Spring Roof Replacement

Spring’s gradually warming climate starts the race of attempting to complete your roof replacement. If you’ve experienced roofing issues during winter, you’ll likely need to replace your roof in the spring. 

Springtime is an excellent season for roof replacement due to the following reasons:

• • More availability. 
  • Open schedules.
  • Lower humidity. 

During springtime, roofers aren’t as packed as fall, so most should be able to accommodate you ASAP. With this, you can enjoy your summer without worrying about leaks or other roof damage. 

Schedules aside, the weather during springtime is also molder than winter, as you start to experience more sunshine and less snowing. Not to mention spring often has lower humidities than summer, reducing the chances of moisture ruining your roof during replacement.  

Cons of Spring Roof Replacement

Although you can secure a schedule with your preferred roofer sooner, the weather tends to be “wetter” during spring, especially around Kingston, NY. And this may cause your project to get pushed back a lot due to rain. 

But with most roofers, delays during the spring only last a few days, depending on if other projects also got moved due to rain. 

Summer (June to August)

Pros of Summer Roof Replacement

Summer is the second most popular season for roof replacements, thanks to the high chances of clear weather! It ensures consistent and warm weather—and is free from any rain (most of the time)! Usually, the earlier you have your roof replaced in the summer, the better it is. 

Early summer is when humidities are lower and is still bearable to work on for most roofers. Plus, the usual summer storms are yet to hit at this time! Aside from that, you may save some cash if you do it early in the summer, as it helps you be more energy efficient. 

Finally, you don’t have to worry about fly-off or leakage during roof replacement in the summer, thanks to the heat emitted by the sun! It ensures the tar strips on the back of asphalt shingles activate and stick correctly. 

Cons of Summer Roof Replacement

As I mentioned earlier, replacing your roof during early summer is ideal. But if you wait until the later days or during the peak of the season, the weather conditions won’t be as good. The heat can be unbearable for most roofers and your roof! 

Roofs can get up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than ground temperature. And not only are these unbearable working conditions, but it also impacts the installation of roofing materials. After all, asphalt shingles may soften under the extreme heat, making them weaker and susceptible to damage during replacement. 

Aside from that, it can be challenging to secure a schedule during summer as it’s one of the most popular times for homeowners. So, expect a slow turnaround time. From inspection visits to the roofers stepping onto your property, you’ll need to wait longer than during other seasons. 

Winter (December to February)

Pros of Winter Roof Replacement

The cold weather, falling snow, and ice formation won’t stop roofers from replacing your roof. So, even if winter comes with many challenges, many roofing companies still offer their services during this time. After all, when done correctly, they can upgrade your roofing even in the freezing weather. 

The roofers’ availability is the most significant benefit of having roof replacement during winter. After all, winter is the least busy season for roofing firms. So, as long as the weather permits, you can secure a schedule faster than any other season. And this is ideal if you’re experiencing issues!

Cons of Winter Roof Replacement

Winter isn’t the best season to have asphalt shingles installed. It’s best to wait until the temperature warms as the cold weather might cause them to lose flexibility. As a result, it’ll be more challenging for the roofers to cut and insert nails. 

Aside from that, shingles also require heat and sunlight to activate the tar sealants on their backs. And these might not get activated during the colder season, causing them to not adhere well to your roof. Some roofers may supplement via hand-sealing methods to prevent your shingles from blowing off with the wind. However, this often comes in extra labor costs, making you spend more than necessary!

Finally, roof replacements might take longer during this season as days are shorter. 

What to Expect During a Roof Installation?

Ideally, roofers can tear down and replace roofs anywhere between 1 and 4 days. But when faced with terrible weather conditions, roof installation can last anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks. Regardless of how long it takes, roof installation can cost you between $5,000 to $16,000, depending on your location, home, and roof size. 

You may also want to discuss their process for keeping your front and backyard debris-free with roofers. 

Why Replace Your Roof?

You can occasionally check your roof’s functionality, but issues aren’t always visible. See the date of your current roof to see how long it has left and determine if you’ll need a new roof soon. Generally, shingle roofs last between 20 and 25 years, while those installed over a layer of shingles need replacement after precisely 20 years. 

You can determine if your shingles are damaged if some aren’t lying flat. Whether it’s cracked patches or buckling shingles, these are signs it’s time to roof repair Poughkeepsie to have your roof repaired. 

Meanwhile, some common reasons to replace your roof include excess leakage, damaged shingles beyond repair, and mold or fungi growth. 

What’s the Difference Between Roof Replacement and Repair?

Considering the high costs of replacing a roof, you must determine if it’s still fixable with repairs before committing to a total replacement. Here are some scenarios where it’s better to have your roof repaired than replaced:

• • Your roof has minor damages. 
  • You have a limited budget. 
  • You need roofing services with short notice. 

If you’re unsure what to do, contact a roofer near me to discuss the situation. After all, even if some roof damage only needs repairing, there are some situations where it’s necessary to replace your roof.

Plan Ahead

The best time to replace your roof is when you’ve planned for it and have not faced an emergency. Seek the best time for your convenience. You may also shop to see what a roofer in New York will charge and across the state to check what times of the year they have the lowest rates. Any reliable roofing company would be happy to accommodate you, inspect your roof, and offer a no-obligation quote. 

So, you can see why planning is the best “time” to replace your roof. It lets you get the time needed with a reliable roofer. Never wait for an emergency to appear, and contact a roofer near you to find out how your roof’s doing!

Solar-powered systems for your home or commercial buildings are becoming increasingly popular. This is not surprising, given how far technology has progressed and the numerous benefits. 

This new technology is now a part of roofing systems that allow you to generate electricity sustainably. And, with equipment costs lower than in recent years, it could be a good investment. 

However, you have to ensure that your roof is suitable for solar panel installation. It’s important to assess the condition of your roofing system. It might need a new roof or just a roof repair first to handle the panels suitably. 

There are excellent roofing contractors that offer professional roofing services to help you with your concerns regarding solar panel installation. 

Read on to know the factors that can help you decide whether you can install solar panels on your roof.

Things to Consider when Installing Solar Panels

It’s essential to remember that solar panels aren’t suitable for every roof. There are various aspects of your roof that you should consider before proceeding with the installation. A thorough assessment of a roofing contractor is a must for this project. 

First, you should know if your existing home or commercial building has roofing problems. Then you should find the best roofing company to provide the best roofing solution for your home or business.

Here are the things to consider to have the best result, whatever your decision may be.

Your Roof’s Age and Condition

Solar photovoltaic panels today are built to last 25 to 30 years. From one year to the next, their energy-generating capacity slightly decreases. As a result, you should consider whether your roofing system’s quality will last as long as the panels. 

Proper roof maintenance can also help solar panels to last longer.

It’s expected that the architectural asphalt roof will last for roughly 20 years. In this situation, solar panels would be a wise addition to your roofing investment. However, you should think twice if your roof has 3-tab shingles and is five years old. 

In this case, the solar panels are likely to survive much longer than the roof.

Meanwhile, placing solar panels on a damaged roof is not good. Instead, you should contact a roofing services contractor for roof repair or roof replacement. You won’t have to remove and replace the panels too soon if you deal with the roof’s issues right away. 

By doing this, your money, time, or effort will not go to waste.

Is Your Roof Up to the Task?

A poor roofing system can cause considerable inconveniences to your business, clients, or customers. Placing solar photovoltaic panels on your roof will add weight to the underlying structure. 

The roof could collapse if the solar panels are too heavy. If you have two or more layers of shingle or tile on your roof, the roof frame may not be able to support any additional weight.

You’ll also have trouble if the roof sheathing is broken or outdated. It’s possible that the roof can’t support the weight of both shingles and solar panels. Before investing in panels, you should have your complete roof structure assessed by a roofing contractor. 

With these being said, it’s clear that roofing maintenance services play a major role in avoiding future hassles from roof replacements and repairs. Never think twice to make use of the roofing services to ensure that the quality of your roofing system can do the job.

Material of Roofing

The type of roof today that is most compatible for this project is GI sheet roofs or flat roofs. Commercial roofing companies usually make this kind of material for commercial roofing needs. 

On the other hand, roofing materials such as slate roofs and wood are not ideal for this project because they are brittle. If you’re planning to install a new roof, ensure that you have the perfect material for your roofing needs. 

You can utilize the expertise of a roofer or roofing contractor to help you decide which type of roof installation suits your building.

Your Roof’s Pitch and Span

Your roof must be suitably exposed to the sun to generate enough electricity for your home. You’ll also need a large surface area to create the required energy. According to most experts, the roof surface should face south with minor obstructions. A roof with a west-facing orientation might also generate adequate power. 

Suppose your roof orientation was not mentioned above. In that case, you might want to utilize a roofing service for a roof replacement or repair. In this case, the roofing services might need to install a new roof where the panels will be placed.

Where Water Will Flow From Your Roof

Rainwater tends to run into the gutters and away from your house. On the other hand, solar panels will come with devices that can stop the flow of water. Wire harnesses and racks can even redirect water away from the waterway, causing leaks and other problems.

 The panels would have to be removed to fix these water issues. Save yourself the hassle of unnecessary roof maintenance and consult an expert on roofing services to determine how the panel installation will affect the water flow.

Quality

While the price of solar panels has dropped, keep in mind that the cheapest ones are often of poor quality. They are less likely to last, but they can also be harmful. You don’t want to have a safety hazard on such an essential part of your structure. 

Roof fires can pose a major threat to your entire home, so be cautious. And you don’t want to use roofing services for a burnt roof. Do extensive research before deciding on a low-cost brand or style of panels for your roof. 

Insurance

It will help if customers are fully insured to cover both themselves and any damage to your house during the installation process. Certain issues might develop during the assembly of your solar panels that you may not be aware of until they happen.

Conclusion

If your roof hasn’t been inspected in a while and you’re still unsure whether solar panels are ideal for your roof, consult a professional from a roofing services company. While solar panels have numerous advantages, you must ensure that your roof can handle them for a long time. 

And always remember and consider the factors that may affect the panels and your roof’s performance.

For professional roofing services and roof inspection, contact Lyndsey Roofing, a quality roofing contractor. They offer different roofing services and focus on customer satisfaction. This roofing company will help you identify any roof problems and advise you on whether repair or replacement is what your roof needs before installing solar panels. 

They also provide a free estimate to their clients, which is part of their job in the roofing industry. Give them a call, and you’ll surely get the expertise and quality service you want in a timely manner!