Pros and cons of flat roof panel mounting system

Do solar panels on flat roofs work? lf you’re keen on investing in renewable, clean,and green solar energy, you do not have to let a flat roof keep you from installing a solar panel system.

So, can solar panels be installed on flat roofs?

Absolutely yes! As long as your roof is in good condition and no large obstructions are blocking the sunlight and diminishing your energy output.

This is excellent news for most American homeowners who prefer flat roofs. However, it would call for some adjustments.

Read on to understand the pros and cons of solar panels on flat roofs.

The advantages of flat roofs for solar panel installation

Maximizing Solar Panel Output

Whether you’re using renewable energy on a domestic or commercial scale, maximizing the output of your solar panels is crucial. This is particularly beneficial because it ensures that you get the most out of your investment in solar technology.

To achieve maximum efficiency, solar engineers must consider several factors when installing solar panels, especially on sloping roofs. One of the primary considerations is the angle and orientation of the roof. For example, if the roof faces east, north, or west, the photovoltaic (PV) panels will produce much less than the desired output. This is because these orientations do not provide optimal exposure to sunlight throughout the day, leading to reduced energy generation.

However, when dealing with flat rooftops, you have the advantage of being able to adjust the angle of your solar panel system freely. This flexibility allows you to orient the panels to face between south and west, which is generally the ideal direction for maximizing sunlight exposure. Additionally, you can fine-tune the angle of the panels to align with the latitude of your geographic location, further enhancing their efficiency.

By positioning your solar panels optimally on a flat roof, you can achieve better output compared to installations on sloping roofs that do not face the correct direction. This alignment ensures that the panels capture sunlight more effectively throughout the day, resulting in higher energy production and improved return on investment.

In essence, the flexibility afforded by flat rooftops enables you to derive superior performance from your solar panel set up, making it a smart choice for maximizing solar energy production, regardless of whether you are a homeowner or a business owner.

Lower installation costs

The total cost of installing solar panels typically ranges from $12,000 to $30,000. 0f this 10%-15% account for labor and installation costs. These costs are lower on a flat roof since it is safer and easier to access without the need for safety equipment.

Less Risky

Compared to a slanted roof, installing solar panels on a flat roof presents significantly fewer risks of personnel or materials falling off the roof during the installation process. On a slanted roof, the incline poses a challenge for workers who must navigate slippery or uneven surfaces, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The steep angle can also make it difficult to secure tools and equipment, leading to a higher risk of materials sliding off the roof.

In contrast, a flat roof offers a more stable and safer working environment. Workers can move around more freely and securely, reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. The absence of a slope means that tools and materials can be placed more safely, minimizing the chance of them rolling or sliding off the edge. This safer setup not only protects the installation crew but also ensures that equipment remains secure, reducing the likelihood of damage or loss.

Overall, the reduced risk associated with installing solar panels on a flat roof makes it a more attractive and safer option for both residential and commercial applications.

Less Damage

Ease of access and low installation costs aside, another major advantage of a flat roof is it can withstand the wear and tear of the installation process better than a sloping roof.

There is no danger of damaging the roof, unlike in a slanted roof where the shingles may come off.

Maintains Aesthetics

Solar panels on flat roofs are not easily visible from the street. This will help maintain the overall aesthetic value of your home.

Considering all these factors, flat roofs make a compelling case for mounting solar panels. However, they are not entirely without cons.

You cannot overlook these challenges

There are some major disadvantages when laying solar panels on flat roofs. These include:

Finding the Right Solar Panel Installer

This will be among your biggest challenges. When it comes to a slanted roof, solar panels can be laid flat against it. But the same cannot be said for flat roofs. Since angled mounts allow for better exposure to sunlight and optimum energy output,will require specialized equipment to mount solar panels at an angle on a flat roof

Unfortunately, not all companies are equipped to install solar panels on flat roofs.The good news is that our company has the capability to do so.

Voiding of warranty

Laying solar panels on flat roofs may render the manufacturer’s warranty void. Some companies declare their warranty void if you do not follow their installation instructions to the tee. And in most cases, installing solar panels on flat roofs is prohibited.

This is because water tends to get accumulated on flat panels, collecting in the gaps between the frame and the glass coating. This increases the risk of water breaching the silicone barrier used to seal the gaps, damaging the panels over a period of time.

Similarly, installing solar panels can also lead to leakages in your roof. While this occurs due to incorrect installation, you need to be extra cautious while installing PV modules on flat roofs.

Reduced Energy Production

Another problem to consider is the reduced production of solar energy over time.The accumulation of dust and debris on the flat solar panels will make them very dirty, thereby reducing their efficiency.

Conclution

Installing solar panels on flat roofs is not impossible. You can contact us and consult with a flat roof solar panel mounting installation professional to determine the most suitable system for your project.