Could a renewable energy installation damage the roof of your property?

It isn't a massive surprise that UK homeowners are being so strongly encouraged to have solar panels installed at their property. The benefits of solar energy panels are well-publicised: sunlight costs nothing, so once a system is installed, it allows the homeowner to save considerably on their energy bills. Thanks to the Government's Feed-In Tariffs, residents can also be paid for the electricity that they generate, even if they use it.

Many others are drawn to renewable energy installations by the opportunity to sell electricity back to the grid, as well as a sense of social responsibility - no harmful carbon dioxide or other pollutants are released by solar electricity. However, before having a solar panel system installed, it's also vital to recognise the effect that this could have on your property. Many homeowners fail to properly consider the damage that could be caused to their roof by solar panels.

With most roofs built to withstand at least eight to 10 pounds per square foot of weight above and beyond the weight of the roofing material, which is usually more than sufficient load bearing capacity for solar panels, your property may be ready for a renewable energy installation right now. However, every house is different, with the age and condition of your existing roof potentially having a considerable effect on its suitability for solar panels.

Your roof may need to be replaced at some point in the next five to 10 years, at which point, any solar panel mounts that you have installed over the roofing material will also need to be removed and reinstalled - a costly and inconvenient exercise. It therefore makes sense for many of those considering renewable energy installations to replace their roof first, or even think about a ground mounted system.

This is where H.I.C.H. LTD's renewable energy pre-installation surveys come in so useful. We can provide a comprehensive detailed inspection report with images and descriptions of the fault areas, in addition to a reinstatement breakdown of costs with recommendations. We can identify all of the aspects that could affect your home if you choose to go ahead with a solar panel installation, as you consider the most advantageous spot - whether on the roof or elsewhere on your property.

Get in touch with our consultants at H.I.C.H. LTD now for more information.