Are you planning a residential roof installation project? Do you intend to install solar panels in the future? If so, you should design a roof that can accommodate solar panels. Ideally, solar panels can be installed on most residential roofs. However, some roofing designs may force you to modify the solar to maximize output. Others can set you up for costly roof repairs in the future. Therefore, consider these roofing design and installation tips if you want to install solar panels.

Opt for a Sloped Roof Design

Solar panels produce maximum energy when the panels are installed at an angle. The most cost-effective installation style is where the panels sit directly on the roof surface. However, if your roof is flat, this won't be possible. Instead, you must install tilt frames to alter the angle of the panels for maximum solar production.

A pitched roof is perfect for a solar installation project. To avoid additional costs, opt for a sloped roof design. For maximum solar exposure, choose the angle that equals or is close to the latitude of your property's location. Besides generating more energy, pitched roofs also shed water easily, which eliminates the risk of pooling and roof leaks.

Build a Sturdy Structure

New roofs can withstand the weight of the panels without suffering damage. However, as the roof ages, the panels may weaken the structure, increasing the risk of costly repairs. You can avoid this problem by designing a sturdy structure that can withstand the weight of solar panels throughout their projected lifespan.

Your roof should feature a sturdy deck that can hold both the roof and the panels. Install quality underlayment over the deck to further strengthen the structure and create a moisture-proof barrier. If some solar panel penetrations start to leak, the underlay will protect your roof deck from moisture damage and prevent costly repairs.

Also, invest in quality roofing materials. Metal, tile, and asphalt shingles are excellent choices for solar installation. Metal and asphalt roofs simplify solar installations because the solar contractor can drill directly into the roof to secure the panels. With tile roofing, the solar installer will lift some tiles during installation, forcing you to replace the tiles at an extra cost. 

Invest in Weathertight Roofing Materials

Moisture infiltration is one of the greatest problems on residential roofs. Unfortunately, roof repairs can be costly and complex if you have solar panels. Therefore, avoid frequent roof repairs by investing in weathertight or weather-resistant roofing materials. These materials are less likely to dent, crack, or leak when exposed to hail, high winds, extreme heat, and heavy rainfall. In this case, the best roofing options are impact-resistant shingles and standing seam metal roofs.

Avoid costly roof repairs and modifications by installing a roof suited to solar panels. Consult a roofing contractor for roof design and installation services.

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