The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
Solar technology has come a long way over the years, and solar shingles are one of the latest innovations that have hit the market. A solar shingle system uses photovoltaic (PV) cells to generate clean and sustainable electricity while also serving as a durable, protective roofing material. If you are considering installing solar shingles on your roof, you may wonder about the installation process, the benefits you can reap from this technology, and how to maintain the system for optimal performance. Here is everything you need to know about solar shingle installation and maintenance.
Solar Shingle Installation
Solar shingle installation involves several steps that may vary depending on the type of system you have and the requirements of your local building codes. Firstly, your roof should be evaluated to ensure it's in good condition and adequate to support the weight of the solar shingles. The next step is to remove the existing roofing materials and install the underlayment to prepare for the solar shingle installation. After that, the shingles are installed, and wiring and inverters are connected to convert DC power to AC power and integrate it with your home's electrical system.
Benefits of Solar Shingles
Apart from being an environmentally friendly way to produce electricity, solar shingles can offer substantial financial benefits to homeowners. By installing solar shingles, you can potentially reduce your monthly electricity bills and even earn credits when your system generates more power than your home uses. Moreover, solar shingles can add resale value to your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Maintenance of Solar Shingles
While solar shingles require little maintenance, there are a few tasks you should carry out to ensure your system is working at its peak efficiency. The first thing is to keep your solar panels clean by periodically removing debris such as leaves, dust, or fallen branches that can accumulate on the surface and reduce their efficiency. You should also monitor your system's performance regularly to detect any unusual drops in power generation or signs of wear and tear, such as corroded wiring, cracked panels, or loose connections. If you find any issues, enlist the help of a professional solar installer to inspect and repair the system.
Environmental Impact of Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. They use clean, renewable energy to produce electricity, which reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Contact a professional to learn more about solar shingles.