Installation quality and functionality go hand-in-hand when putting solar panels on your building’s roof. Properly installed panels from a reputable manufacturer can last decades while saving you money down the road. On the other hand, prioritizing cost over long-term performance can result in a suboptimal system that may not stand the test of time.
Selecting the best solar panels for your site is the most critical step in creating a long-lasting, money-saving system. With over a century of expertise, Knickerbocker Roofing & Paving Co. Inc. provides full-service roofing installation, repair, maintenance, and support. When you contract with us to handle all your roofing needs, we bring in the best available solar panel company for installation.
Factors to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels
The team at Knickerbocker is here to promote safety at your site throughout the process. Before beginning installation, there are several key factors to assess.
Evaluating Your Site and Positioning Needs
Each site must undergo a thorough examination. Confirming the tilt and orientation of the roof can help the installation team determine optimal positioning for the panels with maximum sunlight exposure. A shade analysis can help identify potential obstructions like trees or buildings that could hinder sunlight reception.
Assessing the Roof’s Structural and Compositional Integrity
We work with installers to evaluate the roof and ensure it can effectively support the weight of solar panels. This primary step lays the foundation for an efficient and well-designed solar installation capable of generating the necessary amount of energy. We also use this step to eliminate the potential for safety risks, building damage, and various system performance issues.
Not only will the roof deck need to be structurally sound, but an evaluation of the existing roof system (membrane, insulation, etc) will be necessary to ensure the building will remain watertight throughout the lifespan of the roof-mounted solar panel system. Knickerbocker has the experience and knowledge to ensure the roofing meets the necessary standards prior to the installation of a solar panel system.
Choosing the Right Inverter Type and Capacity
A vital component in a solar energy system is the inverter, which turns DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity. It’s important that the capacity of the solar inverter for your roofing solar panels aligns with the overall system size. Our team can confer with installers to make sure that your chosen inverter can handle your power output requirements.
System Size and Energy Needs
At Knickerbocker Roofing & Paving, we understand the important role system size plays in meeting different energy needs. Choosing the right size ensures the system can generate sufficient electricity to offset a significant portion of usage. It can even potentially lead to the elimination of consumption bills over time.
Permits and Local Regulations
Most municipalities and regions have rules in place that govern solar installations, including building codes and zoning considerations. We can help confirm your area’s permitting requirements and regulations and make sure everything is in order before the team begins installation. Adhering to regulations and obtaining the necessary permits in advance guarantees safety and compliance throughout the installation process.
Costs and Timeframe of Installation
Our team can help you assess upfront costs and provide the estimated timeline for solar panel installation based on the given weather conditions, required permitting procedures, and complexity of the installation. Installation expenses will typically include:
- Mounting hardware
- Panels
- Inverters
- Wiring
- Labor
Required Maintenance
While solar panels require minimal maintenance, keeping panels clear of debris like dirt, leaves, and debris can keep them in good shape. We can perform annual roof inspections to check for any damage or wear that might affect the long-term performance of your solar panel selection.
Contact Knickerbocker Roofing & Paving Co. to Learn More
Solar panel installation requires a top-notch roof and an understanding of sizing and positioning needs. Knickerbocker Roofing & Paving Co. is a well-established family-owned and operated roofing company with vast experience and reliable connections in the solar industry. We can provide customers with a custom quote and timeline for their solar panel project that factors in all relevant installation expenses. We can even help you cover project costs with savings from rebates.
Contact us today to learn more about the process and how the right roofing and setup can support your solar needs.