What You Need To Know Before Installing Solar Panels on Your Roof

South Carolina ranked 12th in the country for solar energy growth last year. This is partly because energy companies are making it easier than ever for South Carolina residents to afford this efficient upgrade. Plus, advancements in solar panel technology make installing solar panels on your home more cost-effective and eco-friendly than ever. If you’ve been thinking about getting this upgrade, take a look at what you need to know before installing solar panels on your roof. 

5 Items to Consider 

There are five items to consider in learning what you need to know before installing solar panels: 

Roof Condition 

Installing solar panels is a significant roof renovation. While solar panels only weigh 2-4 pounds per square foot, if your roof has prior damages or is nearing the end of its intended life span, this extra weight could be a dangerous risk. It is critical that you have a thorough roof inspection before moving forward with solar panel installation. This inspection will help you determine: 

• The age of your roof 
• The slope of your roof 
• How your roofing materials will impact solar panel installation 
• How solar panels will affect the way water drains from your roof 
• Current roof damages 

Request a roof inspection with a RoofBoyz, LLC, contractor. If you’re given the all-clear, you can begin the next part of your solar panel installation process with confidence.  

Insurance Coverage 

Solar panel insurance is included in most basic roof insurance policies, so it is not always necessary to purchase separate insurance. But, before you buy any solar panels or sign any contracts, check with your insurance agent to make sure you’re covered. Because the panels are considered a permanent attachment to your property, damage by wind or other natural causes may not be covered. It is also important to remember that there may not be a claim limit involved, and installing solar panels may require adjusting your coverage limit.  

Cost 

The average cost of solar panels in South Carolina is $16,272. Many factors impact the total price you will pay for complete solar panel installation: 

• Size of the system 
• Quality of materials used 
• Labor costs 
• Home type 
• Location 

Some homeowners who don’t have $16,000 in the budget may consider adding one or two solar panels at a time. However, with each panel costing anywhere between $200 and $300, doing it this way can end up being more expensive in the long run. Keep in mind that the State of South Carolina Tax Credit offers a 25% tax credit for homeowners and businesses that decide to go solar, giving homeowners another incentive to switch to solar panels.  

Installation 

On average, it takes anywhere between one and three days to install a standard 3-kilowatt solar system. However, it can take a couple of weeks from the time you decide to go solar for laborers to begin the installation.  

Labor costs make up about 10% of the system’s total cost. More sophisticated systems will take longer to install, and systems that come with a battery backup add additional hours to installation time as well. Weather and any unexpected issues with your roof can also add to the total installation time.  

Maintenance  

One of the significant benefits of installing solar panels on your roof is that they require very little maintenance. The panels are durable and can use the power of the sun to power your home for 20-30 years with very little assistance from you. Two or three times a year, it is recommended to have your solar panels sprayed down to get rid of any dust, dirt, or debris. South Carolina homeowners pay an average of $150 to have solar panels cleaned by a professional roofing contractor. 

Contact RoofBoyz, LLC, for your Installation 

If you’ve been wanting to make your home more sustainable, solar panels may be the way to go. While it can require a significant upfront investment, in the long run, solar panels can save your family thousands of dollars. If you’re ready to harness the power of the sun, call RoofBoyz, LLC, today. Our professional contractors can help make sure your roof is prepared for this eco-friendly upgrade!