Many homeowners are considering installing solar panels to save on energy costs and be more eco-friendly. The best and most space-saving option for solar panel installation is on your home’s roof. Installing new solar panels on your roof can be complex, and different methods must be considered depending on the size, shape and type of shingles on your roof. Cedar roofs are a classic and attractive home aesthetic, and roofing professionals have developed advanced techniques so installing solar panels on your wood shake roof doesn’t damage their quality or appearance. Can you install solar panels on cedar roofs? Absolutely — if you keep these things in mind.
Considerations for Solar Panels on Cedar Roof
Before installing cedar roof solar panels, check your local regulations to ensure your area allows solar panel installation. Many jurisdictions won’t allow solar panel installations on cedar roofs due to potential fire hazards. However, you can still have solar installed at your home by either reroofing your home in a different, more compatible material like metal or asphalt or installing ground panels. You can also consider installing the solar panels on an alternate roof location like a shed, patio or garage roof.
FAQS About Solar Panels on Wood Roofs
Want to learn more about solar panel installation on cedar shakes or shingles? Check out these common questions and answers.
What are the benefits of solar panel installations?
Solar panels are rising in popularity because they allow you to save on energy costs. The installations generate electricity using the sun as a renewable resource. Investing in these eco-friendly solutions also boosts your property value.
How Are Solar Panels Installed on a Cedar Roof?
Ever wonder how to install solar panels on a cedar shingle roof? Roofing experts have developed different techniques for proper roof installation depending on your home’s materials — asphalt, tile, cedar and metal. Technicians need to be careful when installing your new solar power panels, since cedar wood shakes can be brittle and damaged, but overall the process is simple and safe. With the latest installation and proper methods, solar panels can be installed on cedar roofs without damaging the existing structure and materials.
Most shake roofs are made using the same installation technique, with layers of underlayment between the cedar shake rows. During solar panel installation, the technician first will insert lag bolts into the framing structure of the roof — they maneuver the flashing underneath the previous layer of underlayment and create a strong seal. With this method, they can avoid damaging the cedar roof.
The solar panels are then bolted into the rafters of your home, not the roof, so there’s no need to be concerned about whether the panels will damage the roof or be heavy and weaken the structure. Solar panels only weigh about 4 pounds per square foot and don’t lay directly on the roof, so there’s no threat of excessive weight. To finish your solar panel installation, the technicians will use a high-grade sealant to prevent any leaks. Overall, the installation process takes only one to two days.
How do I take care of solar panels on a roof?
A huge benefit of solar panel installation is that they require very little maintenance, and the panels themselves remain in good working condition for at least 20 years. To ensure your solar panels remain in optimal shape and last their intended lifespans, there are four simple steps homeowners should take:
Inspect Panels Regularly: Check for any excess tree or debris buildup that would impact panel functionality.
Clean Panels: Rain is typically a huge contributor to cleaning solar panels, but if dust and pollen buildup occurs, simply hose off the panels when you’re outside.
Monitor Sun and Shade: For optimal performance, solar panels need to be angled toward direct sunlight, but over time, trees or other obstructions may begin casting too much shade over the panels and need to be trimmed.
Check Energy Usage: Periodically monitor your energy bills to ensure your solar panels are working optimally.
Contact Cedar Roof Coatings Today
At Cedar Roof Coatings, we make it easy to keep your cedar roof beautiful and in optimal shape. Our team provides roof inspections, repairs and maintenance for property owners throughout Connecticut and New York. Learn how to get started and contact our team today!