Installing solar panels on a roof is one of the smartest, most energy-efficient decisions you can make when it comes to your home. However, there are several key factors to consider before installation. Those factors include your overall investment, energy consumption, and roof type.
Things to Know Before Installing Solar Panels on a Roof
Solar Panels Are an Investment
Upfront costs are a common factor in dissuading potential solar panel users. As the solar panel market grows, it can be tough to decide which panel model fits your home and your budget. A roofing professional can walk you through pricing options, including federal and local tax credits and subsidies that can dramatically reduce your panel price. Keep in mind that solar panels are a long-term investment, typically taking at least five years to pay off in terms of energy savings. If you’re planning on selling your house within a few years, solar panels may not make the most sense for your situation.
Your Roof Type Matters
Any roofing professional will tell you that your roof type matters when it comes time to install solar panels. Some roof styles – traditional Spanish tiles or wood shingles, for example – make solar panel installation slightly more challenging. If you have a more traditional roof style, solar panel installation may take longer or be slightly more costly. For best results, do your research to identify a roofing professional who has experience working with a diverse array of roofing materials.
Your Energy Consumption Matters
Some homeowners don’t realize that a home with lower overall energy use will require fewer solar panels. Not sure about your home’s average energy consumption? A roofing professional can help you determine your average energy use depending on factors like the types of electric devices you use in your home, the average climate of your region, and the number of residents in your home. It’s important to accurately calculate your home’s energy usage to ensure you purchase the correct number of panels.
You Might Need a Permit
Depending on your region of the country, you may need a building permit to install solar panels on your roof. This can also vary depending on your building’s use, whether it be residential or commercial. Failure to acknowledge permit requirements can lead to fines and forcible solar panel removal, which is a recipe for a major headache. You can also work with a roofing professional to determine how the Federal Solar Tax Credit affects your region. With this credit, you can deduct up to 26 percent of the cost of a new solar energy system from your annual federal taxes.
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Installing solar panels on a roof is a major investment, but it can lead to huge returns over time. For best results, it is crucial to work with an experienced roofing professional. Not only can professionals install and maintain your solar panels, but also they can walk you through building permits, federal tax credits, and other key aspects of solar panel installation.
If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. Our experts can help you sort through solar panel options for both residential and commercial roof systems. We can also help you maintain an older roof, perform emergency repairs, complete tear-offs and recovers, and perform remodeling services. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding roofing materials, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!