The simple one-word answer is yes! Solar panels are safe and won’t harm your roof structure if the job is done correctly on the side load-bearing walls.
Solar energy is becoming popular among many homeowners due to its energy-efficient benefits. But some common misconceptions associated with it exist, like that it attracts heat radiation and raises the roof temperature or that it may not be safe for health. All of these have been proven wrong by studies confirming that solar panels are safe to install on roofs.
However, one problem may arise: a leaking roof. Some solar panels require mounting brackets that may cause holes in the roof. But this can be administered by professional installation.
Factors to Consider Before Solar Panel Installation
- Age of the roof: Not recommended on roofs older than 15-20 years
- Roofing material: Asphalt, metal and concrete tiles are well-suited.
- Roof condition: Address repairs if needed.
- Orientation and pitch: South-facing roofs with a slope maximised sunlight exposure.
Quick Highlights
Solar panel installation is linked to many misconceptions. Let’s go through them at a glance to burst the myths.
Solar panels damage the roof!
Reality: Improper installation and weight distribution can damage the roof. Other than this, it’s completely safe.
Roofing can’t handle the extra weight!
Reality: Solar panels only add about 2-4 pounds per square foot
Solar panels cause overheating!
Reality: Solar panels shield the inner spaces and reduce temperature.
Solar panel installation causes roof leaks!
Reality: Professional roofers use expert drilling techniques that don’t harm roofs.
Solar panels emit harmful radiation!
Reality: Your wi-fi devices and phone do that, too, without any difference.
Solar panels nullify roof warranties!
Reality: Nothing affects your warranties. The key is to document everything.
Solar panels attract pests!
Reality: Protective mesh or critter guards installed around the perimeter prevent animals from accessing the space beneath panels.
Can Solar Panels Cause Roof Problems? Misconceptions Cleared
Solar panels do not inherently damage roofs. Instead, they help protect your roofing materials by shielding them from harsh weather and UV rays. There are some misleading statements about installing panels on the roof that often prevent homeowners from making informed decisions. This makes it necessary to address them and clarify that solar panels are safe for your roof.
Also Read – Solar Panel Guide: Things to Know Before Installation
Solar Panels Will Damage the Roof
Many homeowners believe that solar panels will weaken their roofs. But in most cases, it is supported by no solid evidence. The damage only occurs when improper installation techniques are applied without assessing the roof condition by an unqualified person.
Solar panels are unlikely to cause any structural issues if
- Specialized mounting systems are used to distribute weight evenly and are compatible with your roof type.
- Installers use proper sealing and flashing around mounting points. They are aware of different roofing materials and can properly secure panels.
- Before the procedure, a professional assessment of your roof’s integrity is done. If it is older than 10 years or damaged, consider repairs and replacements first.
Roof Can’t Handle the Extra Weight
Another common concern is the panels’ weight. People usually ask if it will be too heavy for their roof to handle. However, modern residential roofs can easily support the additional load without any reinforcement. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an ideal roof should be able to support 20 pounds of snow per square foot or equivalent before getting “stressed.”
- Solar panels typically add only about 2-4 pounds per square foot, which is well within the load-bearing capacity of most roofs. (20 pounds of snow per square foot)
- Assessing the roof condition before installation can help you figure out whether it can support the panels or not.
- If necessary, reinforcements can be done to strengthen the structure or use rail-less mounting systems.
Some users also mention that installing the panel legs at the side load-bearing walls reduces the weight impact on the roofing materials and enhances the building aesthetics.
Remember! The weight on the roof has three types: dead weight (of its own materials), live weight (of temporary objects), and uplift weight (of air causing the upward lift)! Calculate all when taking weight estimates.
Solar Panels Cause Roof Overheating
Some studies suggest that solar panels can effectively reduce heat absorption by approx. 38% and lower temperatures in attics and rooms by about 5 degrees. These facts clearly deny what people think about panels creating overheating.
In reality,
- Panels act as a barrier that shields your roof from direct sunlight.
- The air gap between the setup and the roof allows good ventilation and prevents heat buildup.
- The system can actually help keep your roof cooler by lowering the surface’s degrees.
Installing Solar Panels Will Lead to Roof Leaks
The most important concern shown by many is roof leaks due to panels. This is because the setup involves drilling that may create holes in your roofing structure. But eventually, solar panels themselves don’t inherently cause leaks. Their installation process can sometimes create vulnerabilities if not done correctly. For example, using the wrong mounting hardware or failing to properly secure the structure causes weak points that are prone to leaks.
The risk can be minimized if
- Choose a licensed roofer with a solid understanding of panels.
- Apply high-quality waterproof sealant to bolt holes.
- Use plastic or metal flashing at the holes drilled to secure panels into roof rafters.
- For flat roofs, ballasted roof mounts are used to avoid roof penetrations
Also Read – Why Should You Install Solar Panels at Home?
Solar Panels Emit Harmful Radiations
Concerns about radiation from solar panels often lead to questions about their potential health effects, but it is important to distinguish between myths and facts. Solar panels primarily emit non-ionizing radiation similar to that from common household devices like Wi-Fi routers and mobile phones. This is generally considered safe for human exposure when installed over a house roof.
There are many studies indicating that the levels of radiation emitted by panels are not strong enough to cause any cellular damage or cancer. Also, the smart meter used in the whole setup is even considered safe by WHO.
Solar Panels Void Roof Warranties
Many homeowners worry that installing solar panels automatically voids their roof warranty. This misconception stops countless people from making the switch to solar energy.
Most reputable roofing manufacturers maintain warranties even after solar panel installation when done by certified professionals. The key lies in proper documentation and following manufacturer guidelines during installation. Professional solar installers coordinate with roofing companies to ensure warranty compliance. Some solar companies even offer additional guarantees that cover potential roofing issues related to their installation.
Before proceeding, simply request written confirmation from both your roofer and solar installer regarding warranty continuation. Panel removal for roof repairs rarely presents complications, as modern mounting systems allow for quick disassembly without damaging the roof structure.
Roof Warranty Timeline: Roofs generally have a warranty of almost 1-10 years. You can install solar panels anytime in between!
Solar Panels Attract Pests
Another common concern revolves around solar panels creating new maintenance issues, particularly pest infestations. Homeowners fear birds nesting under panels or rodents damaging wiring.
While panels can create small spaces underneath where birds might nest, this problem has simple solutions. Protective mesh or critter guards installed around the perimeter prevent animals from accessing the space beneath panels. Regular maintenance checks twice yearly catch any potential issues before they become problematic.
Most solar panel systems require little to no maintenance except occasional cleaning and electrical inspections. The panels themselves act as a barrier against debris accumulation on your roof, potentially reducing gutter cleaning frequency. Professional solar companies offer maintenance packages that include pest prevention measures, addressing this concern completely.
Solar Panels Attract More Lightning
Well, that’s not true as solar panels are made of conductive material and designed to dissipate the electrical charges that come their way.
The metal components in solar systems connect to proper grounding equipment that safely channels electricity into the ground. Modern solar installations include surge protection devices that prevent electrical charges from damaging your home’s electrical system during storms. Fire risks actually decrease with professionally installed systems that meet electrical code requirements and include appropriate disconnects.
Solar panels work at relatively low voltages compared to other households, making them more safe and reliable. Regular electrical inspections further reduce any potential risks associated with the system’s operation during extreme weather conditions.
Note: Research studies indicate that solar panels don’t cause much damage but are themselves at risk of damage. They require large open spaces for installation, increasing the chances of lighting damage to their components.
Conclusion
Solar panels are safe for your roof in every way. The only thing that matters is setting up using the correct installation practices. They do not cause leaks, damage your roof’s integrity or pose any health hazard. In fact, they can extend the lifespan of your roof by providing protection from weather elements. It is recommended that you hire a professional roofing company that ensures the usage of quality materials to benefit from solar energy.
UPLARN 
Felicia Benedict 
