Should you install solar panels on your roof?

Installing solar panels on your roof can both save you energy costs and reduce your home’s environmental impact. Even though there are some DIY solar panel options, installing them is a highly complex project, and you’ll still need assistance from an experienced professional.

Can I install solar panels myself?

You can install solar panels yourself, but doing it alone involves risks. Going solar has significant financial benefits: it reduces your monthly electricity costs and can even increase the value of your home. Incentives can lower your overall cost drastically, but solar is still a big investment.

How do you install solar panels on a rooftop?

Solar involves electrical work on rooftops, only attempt DIY if you have experience. Hire a reputable, licensed solar contractor if using professionals. Verify they have an electrician on staff. Have the installer provide a detailed plan with panel placement, wiring runs, and electrical connections.

What is a roof-mounted solar panel installation?

Roof-mount solar panel installations are less intrusive and invasive, and there is no need for extensive pre- and post-installation work or construction. Roof-mounted solar panels add aesthetic appeal and blend seamlessly with roofs, making them ideal for residential rooftop surfaces.

Can you install ground-mounted solar panels on a pitched roof?

You can install ground-mounted solar panels, though you’ll again need more space than you would if you installed panels on a pitched roof. This is because you’ll need to space out your panels so they don’t cast shade on each other, just like on a flat roof.

How do solar panels attach to a roof?

Installers fix solar panels to a roof by lifting up some roof tiles and attaching mounting brackets to the rafters, before carefully placing the tiles back where they were. They'll then attach rails to these brackets, before locking solar panels into the rails.