One of Australia’s biggest commodities is our environment. We are lucky to have some of the best conditions for alternative energy generation on the planet. Now that summer is right around the corner, it’s time to talk solar. Some of the latest research suggests that almost a quarter of Australian homes already have solar panels installed and around double that are suitable for solar panels. South Australians are the top consumers of solar power ahead of Queensland and Western Australia, which is why we put together this information article about installing solar panels and all the considerations you will need to make before you decide. Solar power has two key benefits, helping your hip pocket and the environment. With energy prices soaring around the country, alternative and renewable energy sources are becoming more and more popular, so if you are looking at going solar, contact your local roofing experts at Horizonline, we are more than happy to answer all your questions and provide quotes. With savings around 20-30 cents per kilowatt hour, the savings alone are enough to do further research into your options.
So, you’ve made the decision to look into going solar. What else do you need to know about your roof to make sure it is suitable for panel installation? Read on for the four main points you need to check before installing solar panels on your roof.
Materials
Metal roofs are the friendliest material for solar panels, although other roofing types may work, metal is best due largely to its durability. Other roofing materials like tiles would need to be in tip top condition and not starting to wear before you could install any solar panels. With solar panels, the biggest consideration is the sheer weight of the panels and whether your roof can handle the weight. If you find any cracks or damage in your roof, you will need to repair the damaged tiles or replace the roof structure if the damage is widespread.
Area
Is your roof big enough? The size of an average solar panel can be between 16 and 35 square metres. You want the panels to fit on the roof comfortably without also adding too much weight, it’s a good idea to get a professional out to assess the area of your roof and provide an idea of how many panels you could install on your roof.
Condition
The condition of your roof is a key determinate in whether you can feasibly go solar or not. Your roof will need to have a life span of at least 25 years to match the solar panels, as repairing your roof once the panels are installed is quite tricky and costly. If there is too much damage to your roof, it may be time to consider a new roof altogether and, in that case, you could bundle the installation of the panels in with the new roof.
Direction
It should go without saying, but you are not going to put solar panels on the side of your roof that sits in the shade all day, so you’ll need to consider the trees around your home, and the direction the house is facing. Take time to investigate which side of your roof gets the most sun throughout the day, to maximise your solar panel functionality and get the most from your investment, this will be the side your panels are installed.
Whilst solar power seems like a lot of initial work, the benefits still outweigh the initial costs to install. Restoring, replacing or repairing your roof is not for the faint of heart. Avoid costly mistakes and discover how Horizonline Roofing can help you and your home by getting in touch today. Call to speak to one of our friendly team on (08) 8380 5796, or you can fill in our contact form and we will be in touch shortly.
