Installing Solar Panels on Commercial Roofs? Is your Roof Ready? Here are the Risks to be aware of
If you’re looking to install solar panels on your commercial roof, you’re about to take up a major investment, however, it is one that promises to be very beneficial in return.
With solar panels, you are assured of fewer utility bills, tax rebates and credits, and more sustainability in the operations of your business due to less carbon footprint.
But with all these benefits, there are also some risks to take note of, especially when you’re dealing with a commercial roof system that’s low or flat.
One fact that some commercial roofers might not tell you is that the success of a solar panel installation, as well as the cost of the process, is very much related to how healthy your roof is. However, we’re here to help business owners throughout Phoenix to understand the full picture and plan for all possibilities.
You can count on us because we have been in the business for over two decades, and we have all the right knowledge, whether in planning, inspection, and installation.
Here’s what we think you need to know about solar panels and commercial roofs:
Possible Risks of Installing Solar Panels on Commercial Roof
Although expert roofers like us find it quite easy to install solar panels on low or flat commercial roofs, there is a risk possibility as well.
Whenever you have a piece of equipment installed on your roof, whether HVAC, electrical components that require to be sited on your roof, or even a catwalk, your actions penetrate the surface of the roof and cause a risk of moisture intrusion if sealing isn’t done properly.
Similarly, when you install solar panels, penetrations to your roof’s surface can’t be avoided. However, the confidence you should have when working with a reputable roofing company is that you’re assured of quality installation compared to what you might get from a solar company that might not be aware of the punctures they left behind to seal them against moisture entry.
How to know if your Commercial Roof is Ready for Solar Panels
Before you go straight into the installation, you must first consider whether your roof is ready for it. This is because the lifespan of your solar panels is connected to the health of your commercial roof. For instance, a newly installed roof will deliver better value with solar panels compared to a very old roof.
Not to worry though, even if you have an old commercial roof, your roofing system can be repaired or even replaced to get the best out of the solar panels. And yes, it is important to replace old and faulty roofs before installing solar panels because these panels will make it taxing to repair or replace your commercial roof when the time comes.
If you end up installing your solar panels and then need to do roof work in a few months or years, you’ll need to take off the entire solar system and then install it again. This, of course, results in multiple expenses, and could even go as far as damaging your roofing structure or the solar system you have previously installed.
So, if there’s any reason to replace your roof, the best time to do it is when you’re about installing your solar panels so that you get the most out of the entire process.
Inspect your roof Before and After Solar Panel installation
Now that we know the possible risks, one way to stay safe is to have experts inspect your roof before installing the solar panel to be certain of your roof’s integrity.
The roofing professional will give you all the details about the condition of your roof, and your roof’s estimated lifespan, and also let you know whether or not your roof can handle a solar panel installation. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it is also the prerogative of the expert to let you know what you need to do before beginning installation.
When your solar panel has been successfully installed, another inspection is necessary to find out any vulnerabilities your roof was exposed to as a result of the installation process. If any exposure occurred, your roof will need sealing to prevent moisture from getting in, and any other issue will be fixed.
Get your Solar Roofing Inspection done by contacting a Commercial Roofing Now!
Once you decide to have solar panels as an addition to your commercial building, reach out to an experienced commercial roofing company and schedule an inspection to ensure you get nothing short of the best from your investment. We are here to help you carry out a thorough inspection before and after solar panel installation to ensure your commercial roof remains in the best condition through it all.