Tempting although it might be to dive into the world of solar energy if the fee estimates align together with your expectations, there’s yet another factor it’s essential to take into account: Your roof. They put on down over time and can have to be repaired or changed. Something that will get extra sophisticated (and dearer) if photo voltaic panels must be eliminated and reinstalled all through the method.

In basic, in case your roof is 20 years previous or extra,or it has recognized points you’ve got been that means to repair, you must maintain that earlier than putting in photo voltaic. A youthful roof (round 10 to twenty years) must be okay for set up, however you may anticipate to pay a bit extra as soon as it inevitably wants changing. The 5 to 10 years age vary is extra accommodating, however Consumer Affairs nonetheless recommends getting it inspected first to get an concept for the way lengthy it would maintain up via the lifetime of your photo voltaic system. Five years and youthful, although, is the candy spot (assuming there aren’t any recognized roof points).

Also take into account the dimensions and load-bearing capabilities of your roof. With particular person panels weighing about 40 kilos every, and usually measuring roughly three toes by 5 toes, it may possibly all add up shortly. You might have to contemplate floor panels or panels with increased wattage output in case your roof is simply too small (below the 1,000 sq. foot common) or cannot deal with a whole lot of kilos of fixed weight.