You may be thinking of joining the thousands of people who already enjoy generating energy from solar power, but are unsure if your roof is suitable for installing solar panels. Thankfully, most UK homes have pitched roofs, which are ideal, although a solar PV system can be put on many other types of roofs too.
Optimum sunlight
According to the Energy Saving Trust the ideal position is a roof which faces south and is at an angle of 30°, to allow for maximum energy generation.
However, this doesn’t mean a roof which faces east or west is unsuitable for solar panel installation, as these can still absorb sunlight to create energy. An east-facing roof will be bathed in sunlight in the morning, while a west-facing roof will benefit from sun in the afternoon and evening. A solar panel installation in Nailsea could work with either of these, even if there is not sunlight all the time.
Keep out of the shade
If your roof has any objects near it which cause shade, such as trees, solar panels can still be used, although the amount of electricity generated will be smaller. If you are in need of solar panel installation Nailsea, there are several firms that can help advise on whether an optimised system will work best to mitigate this. Expert solar panel system installers begin by assessing the layout of your roof and recommending which option will be most efficient when carrying out solar panel installation in Nailsea.
Flat roofs
While a pitched roof is optimal, solar panels can also be installed on flat roofs, making them suitable for all sorts of different buildings. If panels are fitted to a flat roof, they are mounted on an angle, allowing them to benefit from the sun’s rays during daylight hours.
Roof material
As long as your roof is not made of thatch or glass and it doesn’t contain asbestos, a PV system can be installed on it. It will need to be in reasonable condition, with any damage fixed before installation begins.