Have you been thinking about making the switch to solar power? With more and more people looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, switching over to solar energy is becoming a popular choice. Solar installation is becoming a more viable option for many homeowners due to state and federal incentives, making it easier for them to reap the benefits of clean, renewable energy.
If you’re considering taking the plunge into going green, there are an array of factors that should be taken into consideration before moving forward. Let’s take a look at what to consider when going solar.
Location and Incline of Roof
Location, location, location! The location and incline of a roof are essential factors to consider when installing solar panels on a residential home. Ideally, the solar panels should be installed on a roof that faces south to ensure that it absorbs the maximum amount of solar energy and the roof should have minimal tree coverage. If these two location requirements aren’t met, your roof may not be a great candidate for solar.
Another crucial factor is the roof slope. The recommended roof inclination for solar panels lies between 15 and 40 degrees. The slope of the roof is important because it determines how much sunlight the solar panels receive. The slope of a roof affects the amount of solar energy that hits the solar panel, and if the slope is too steep or flat, it may compromise the total amount of energy produced.
Age and Condition of Roof
How old is your roof? Do you notice missing, damaged shingles? Do you have any roof leaks? The age and condition of a roof are crucial factors to consider before installing solar panels. As a solar panel system can last for up to 25 years, it is important the roof it is installed on can support it for that duration. If the roof is already old and in poor condition, it may not last long enough to fully enjoy the benefits of solar energy.
It’s also important to know solar companies charge a fee to remove and then reinstall solar panels if you need a roof replacement. That cost can quickly offset the financial benefits of going solar in the first place.
Overall, it is important to have proper evaluation and maintenance of the roof before considering the installation of solar panels. A well-maintained roof can provide a sturdy, long-lasting foundation for the solar panel system, maximizing the cost-effectiveness of going solar. With the right preparation, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy while having peace of mind knowing their roof will remain in good condition for many years to come.
Financial Investment
The cost of installing solar panels on a home has decreased significantly over the years, making it a more affordable option for homeowners. The average cost of a residential solar system ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on various factors such as the size of the system, the type of panels used, and the complexity of the installation. However, the upfront investment can be offset by various financial incentives that are available to homeowners.
One of the most significant incentives is the federal tax credit for solar energy, which offers a 30% credit on the total cost of the system. This means that a homeowner who installs a $20,000 solar system can receive a tax credit of $6,000, which can be used to reduce their federal income tax liability.
Additionally, residents of Pennsylvania can take advantage of the PA SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) program, which requires electric companies to purchase SRECs to help meet their renewable energy requirements. Homeowners with a solar system installed on their property can sell these SRECs, which can be worth up to $300 per year per kilowatt-hour, depending on the market rate.
When it comes to financing options, there are various avenues available for homeowners, including cash, loan, and lease options. Homeowners who have the funds available can pay the upfront cost with cash, which would allow them to take advantage of various incentives and secure a quicker return on investment. Some solar companies even offer a discount for customers paying in cash.
Most homeowners, however, opt for a loan option enabling them to spread out the cost of the system over several years. While this requires a soft credit check, homeowners with good credit often receive favorable rates.
Lastly, for homeowners who may not have the funds or credit to take out a loan, leasing options may be available through most solar companies. This option would allow homeowners to pay a monthly fee to lease the solar system, while still benefiting from the financial incentives associated with solar energy.
Protect Your Solar Investment with Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg
Installing a solar system and making the switch to clean renewable energy is a big decision. If you are considering solar, protect your investment by making sure your roof is in tip-top shape for solar panels.
Contact us online today to schedule your roof assessment or call/text us at 717-487-8752. We can perform repairs to get your roof ready for solar installation, apply a Roof Maxx treatment to extend the life of your roof, or provide a roof replacement if your roof has reached its end-of-life. Our goal is to help you extend the life of your roof so your solar system is in place for years to come.
