For Florida homeowners looking to go solar, they may be unfamiliar with the process of solar panel installation. Questions and potential concerns can arise, including whether or not solar panels can harm your roof. Well, let’s take a deep dive into the process and answer the question – do solar panels cause damage to your roof?

How Solar Panels Installation Works | A Quick Summary

First, a couple things need to happen before installation can begin. For starters, the home needs to be inspected by the installers before anything can happen. Once the client’s energy needs have been discussed, a custom solar system can be designed. After approval, the proper permits need to be acquired. After the permits are acquired, installation can begin. 

Solar panel mounts are then installed onto the top of the roof. The solar panels themselves are then mounted. This can be done using racks or brackets, depending on the size of the panels. 

Wiring will begin and the inverter can be installed (this device converts the DC electricity into AC, which is primarily used for homes and businesses.) The newly-installed panels then go through a final inspection. Lastly, your solar system can be connected to the grid. 

Where can potential damage occur?

Potential damage to your roof can occur during the mounting-installation process. To install the mounts, installers must drill holes into the roof. If done improperly, or not correctly sealed, leaks can develop around these holes. If left unchecked, the leaks can cause further damage to the roof. 

Roof damage is very unlikely to occur, especially if you’re working with a qualified solar panel installer, who knows how to properly mount (and remove) the panels. Actually, solar panels have been found to protect homes from debris, hail and excessive sunlight.

Experience and expertise is important

Having a qualified solar panel installer is important in ensuring that your home won’t be damaged during the installation process. In the state of Florida, it is required that solar panels must be installed by a state-licensed master electrician, electrical contractor or solar contractor. 

When looking for a solar panel installer, seek out someone who is licensed and has experience working with solar energy. While electrical contractors are allowed to install solar panels, they may struggle to do so with extensive experience or specialized knowledge surrounding solar energy. 

Why go solar?

Solar panels are not only an environmentally friendly option, but they are economical. They are particularly helpful for families looking to take advantage of large amounts of solar energy available in Florida. Solar panels work by taking sunlight and converting it into electricity, which can be used to power your home or business. 

Solar panels save you money on future utility bills – in more ways than one. If enough sunlight is gathered, Florida homeowners can engage in a practice known as net metering. This process allows homeowners to sell their converted electricity back to the utility company. In exchange, they are given credits to their account, saving families even more money. 

The federal government and the state of Florida both offer financial incentives to help homeowners offset the costs of solar panel installation. Local governments may offer rebates and credits, while the federal government offers a 30% tax credit on eligible solar installation expenses (also known as the Residential Clean Energy Credit.) 

To learn more about local rebates and incentives, reach out to your local municipality for information. 

Looking for expert solar panel installers? Solar Trek is the team for you!

Are you a Florida homeowner looking for experienced solar professionals? Well, look no further! Our dedicated team of professionals at Solar Trek are here to help you navigate the solar panel installation process. 

Based in Ocala, Solar Trek has been working with the Florida families for over 40 years. We not only offer decades of experience, but our commitment to safety and quality is unmatched. We install solar panels for residences, commercial properties and equine facilities. 

Give us a call at 352-351-1333 to learn more about our solar energy services. For more information about our other services, including residential and commercial solar pool heating, visit our website by clicking the link here.