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5 Factors to Consider When Installing Solar Panels on a Roof

March 10, 2022

Sun shines over a roof with solar shingles.

Considering installing solar panels on a roof? Many factors will influence your decision. Allana Helland, director of marketing for GAF Energy, leans on her more than 10 years of solar industry experience to help guide homeowners who are curious about solar roofing.

Here's what to think over before investing in a solar roof.

1. Solar Panels vs. Solar Shingles

Solar panels and solar shingles are the two most common solar options for homeowners. Both convert sunshine into electricity that can power your home with clean energy, often leading to cheaper long-term energy costs.

Solar Panels

Traditional solar panels have been around for decades, says Helland. "Even with aesthetic and efficiency improvements," how solar panels work has for the most part remained the same. These solar panels typically require a secondary installation, performed by a solar company separate from your roofing company, that goes over an existing roof.

Solar Shingles

Rather than requiring a secondary installation, solar shingles are often installed like an architectural asphalt shingle by a qualified roofing contractor. Options such as the Timberline Solar™ roofing system take the "tested and true" reliability of a hardworking asphalt shingle and incorporate solar technology, explains Helland. In fact, Timberline Solar shingles are even nailed on like a regular shingle.

2. Return on Investment

Wondering how long you'll wait until your solar solution pays for itself is common. Online solar tools can help calculate those complicated numbers. As technology evolves, though the question should evolve, too: "What if people were asking if the roof itself could pay back over time?" asks Helland.

Rather than thinking of solar energy as a separate cost from the cost of your roof, consider installing a new roof that comes with solar already integrated. Solar shingles mean you have one contractor and one cost, which is often lower than the two installation costs. And, because solar shingles such as Timberline Solar are installed by roofers in the same amount of time it takes to install a regular roof, they pass on the installation savings to customers.

That is in addition to the long-term cost savings that powering your home with solar energy can already bring. If it's time for a new roof, the payback potential of the newer solar shingles can make it a less expensive option than traditional solar panels. Whether you opt for solar panels or solar shingles, utilize federal incentives and search the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency to find tax cuts you may be eligible for.

3. Roof Requirements

Is your roof ready for solar? Roof condition, location, and age are key considerations when installing solar panels.

Your roof's condition—new, old, leaky—impacts installation choices. "Be cautious about putting brand new solar panels on an older roof," Helland warns. Installing panels over an aging or degraded roof could accelerate existing roof problems. Additionally, as with any secondary installation over the roof, any repairs the roof might need in the future may require solar contractors to come and remove the panels before roofing contractors can perform roof repairs. This means coordinating and paying two separate contracting companies.

If you plan to install a new roof, solar shingles—especially those like Timberline Solar™ that are UL 7103-rated as both solar panels and construction materials—can streamline the process. If the roof needs repairs down the line, a qualified roofer can easily access the right areas.

As you weigh your roof's eligibility for solar, look into your SunScore. This rating, from 1–100, measures roughly how suitable your roof is for collecting solar energy based on your location.

4. Maintenance and Cleaning

Energy shingles like Timberline Solar™ and standard architectural shingles like the Timberline HDZ^® Shingle age at roughly the same rate. Fortunately, solar shingles and solar panels are low maintenance and don't require much in the way of cleaning.

"Natural soiling is expected," shares Helland. She explains that it's typical of traditional solar panels and doesn't significantly impact energy production. That said, environmental factors that cause heavy soiling, like pollen-producing trees over a roof, might hurt energy production and should be addressed with your installation professional.

Cleaning can be as easy as hosing down or sweeping off the panels or shingles to remove debris—but only when done following appropriate safety measures. If spraying the solar panels with a hose, be mindful of the temperature, as cold water and hot glass could lead to cracking, notes Helland.

5. Withstanding Weather

Think about what your roof will experience throughout the year as it shields you from the elements—and then consider how well solar panels or shingles might fare.

Questions to Ask about Weatherproofing

Wondering whether a solar solution will survive a storm? Solar panels and solar shingles themselves are built to withstand bad weather, and most have warranties covering severe weather damage. However, it can be smart to ask if a traditional solar installation will compromise your existing roof's defenses against the weather, if installation could result in the need for a roof repair or roof replacement, and if installing solar panels will compromise your roofing warranty.

Challenges of Traditional Solar Panels

Comparatively, solar shingles may be more effective at weatherproofing your solar roof than solar panels. Both rack-mounted (raised from the roof) and direct-to-deck (flush with the roof) solar panels are installed by a solar roofing company after the roof is installed by your roofing contractor. These secondary solar installations may jeopardize the initial roof underneath, according to Helland. Any resulting roof holes or other damage could lead to leaks, water damage, and other potentially costly problems.

Because these secondary installations are done after the roof is already in place, and usually not by your roofer, they may compromise or void traditional roof and shingle warranties. Read your warranty's fine print before making your decision.

Benefits of Solar Shingles

Choosing an integrated solution may offer the greatest protection when it comes to both weatherproof design and warranty. Because the Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingle is both a roofing shingle and a solar panel in one, it also requires only one installation by one contractor. GAF Energy wanted to "create something where homeowners didn't have to think about solar-installation weatherproofing issues," says Helland.

Interested in installing solar panels on a roof? Think about how your roof can pay for itself over time, create clean energy, and look good making it happen. Talk with a GAF Certified Contractor^*about your solar options.

^*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products.

About the Author

Annie Crawford

Annie Crawford is a freelance writer in Oakland, CA, covering travel, style, and home improvement. Find more of her work at annielcrawford.com.

If you think your home might have a leak in the roof, you're right to be concerned. A leak, if left unrepaired, can lead to many problems, from mold to water damage. Detecting the issue early—and figuring out what's causing it—can help limit the damage.So, here's how to tell whether you have a roof leak, the common causes, and what to do next.How to Detect a Roof LeakHere are a few signs you might have a leaking roof.StainingWater stains, which look like brownish or yellowish spots, on your walls, floors, or ceilings are signs you have a leak. A plumbing leak can also cause these stains, but finding them in the attic or near other roofing structures means water is likely coming from the roof.MoldMold grows in humid environments, and roof leaks can create the perfect conditions for this growth. If you see mold around the attic and insulation, you may have a leak or your attic may not have proper ventilation. Either way, it's an issue you'll want to address.SaggingSagging ceilings can indicate leaks and issues with your roof's structural integrity. If water has accumulated in the roof decking, the wooden materials can rot and become damaged, weakening them. As water collects, it can also cause these materials to grow heavier, leading to sagging ceilings. This is a safety hazard you'll want to fix as soon as possible.Common Causes of Roof LeaksYour roofing system might develop a leak for several reasons.Severe WeatherWeather-related damage is one of the major sources of roof leaks. Exposure to moisture from rainstorms can cause materials like shingles or flashing to deteriorate and eventually allow water to seep into the structure below. Sharp winds can lift or warp shingles, letting water enter the damaged area. Hail can crack shingles and flashing. Even temperature fluctuations can cause materials to become brittle and crack as they expand and contract with these changes.Faulty Roof WorkImproperly installing roofing materials can also lead to roof leaks. When shingles aren't aligned or securely attached to the roof, it creates small openings where water can pool. This can occur when nails aren't driven in all the way or not enough nails are used. That's why certain shingles like GAF Timberline HDZ® use patented LayerLock® Technology that helps your roofer achieve a 99.9% nailing accuracy. Since flashing protects the vulnerable parts of the roof, improper flashing installation can also cause problems.Additionally, many homeowners try to save money by making repairs themselves or hiring low-quality contractors who don't do the job correctly or use cheap materials. This can lead to further and more expensive repairs down the road.Simple Wear and TearWear and tear over time can also cause roof leaks. Roofing materials can deteriorate over the years due to harsh weather, ultraviolet rays, and roof movements.Animals and Tree BranchesLess common causes, which still pop up now and then, include damage from animals and tree branches. The heavy impact from tree branches can crack shingles, leaving room for openings. Small critters like rats and squirrels can chew through roofing material or burrow into it, creating openings for water to enter.Call A Professional to Repair LeaksIt isn't always easy to identify the main source of a leak yourself. So, as soon as you notice any signs of a leak, call a trusted roofing contractor. They can find the leak's source, install quality materials to fix it before further damage occurs, and prevent it from happening again. A contractor can also help determine whether you need a new roof entirely.How to Prevent Roof Leaks in the FutureWith regular maintenance, you can catch leaks before they occur and extend your roof's life.Schedule A Professional InspectionIt's recommended to get your roof professionally inspected at least twice a year. When a leak is in the first stages, you might not notice signs immediately. A contractor can detect these issues before they happen and repair any damaged areas, such as shingles or flashing. These proactive steps are often less expensive than, for example, replacing damaged insulation from water damage or replacing the roof decking due to rot.Inspect Your Attic and RoofIn addition to professional inspections, monitor your attic and roof to determine whether you need a roof repair. From your attic, look for any sunlight that might be entering. If light can get into your attic, that means water can too. If you have a leak, you might see small dark spots or smell mildew or mold.While you should avoid climbing on your roof (leave this to the professionals who have the proper safety equipment and training), you can inspect your roof from the ground. Look for missing or damaged shingles, holes, and damage to the gutters and flashing.Clean Your GuttersMake gutter cleaning part of your yearly maintenance, or hire someone to do it. When your gutters become clogged with debris, water has nowhere to go and will remain on the roof or make its way inside. Installing gutter guards can help reduce the need for gutter cleanup.Trim Tree BranchesTrimming the tree branches near your roof can further prevent leaves from clogging the gutters. This step can also prevent branches from scratching your shingles on windy days or falling on your roof, leading to cracks.Catch Leaks Early to Minimize DamageYour roof is one of your home's most important structures. So, as soon as you notice signs of a leak, contact a roofing contractor, and prevent future leaks with regular roof maintenance and inspections. By taking these steps, you can ensure your roof protects what matters most for years to come.Ready to hire a contractor to fix a leak or inspect your roof? Find a GAF-Certified Contractor* near you.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

While it can be fun to put up holiday lights, it's traditionally had its share of downsides. In addition to requiring a ladder, adding seasonal cheer to a home's exterior previously involved driving screws, nails, or staples into the roof or siding. The small holes these fasteners create can allow moisture to penetrate the roofing system, potentially leading to leaks, mold, and mildew.These days, you can choose many options to spread holiday cheer without damaging your home or taking on unnecessary risks. Here are the most effective ways to decorate for the season.Consider Decor That Doesn't Involve the RoofThe safest way to bedeck your home for the holidays is to decorate another part of the house or your yard, away from the roof. Here are a few ideas.ProjectorsLight projectors shower your home with a moving light display, featuring anything from snowflakes to traditional holiday characters. With many options, you're sure to find one that suits your house and neighborhood. And since the projector units sit close to the ground, you don't risk damage to your home and don't need a ladder to install them.InflatablesInflatables are staked into the ground and can help create a variety of holiday themes, from the classic nativity scene to an eye-catching menorah. They're easy to install and won't damage your home. However, inflatables are susceptible to weather events—during high winds or heavy snowfall, you may want to unplug or turn off the fan to prevent them from taking flight or creating a risk of electric shock.Tree LightsYou can hang lights from trees, landscaping, or other structures in your yard. Stringing lights around bushes, up light poles or tree trunks, and under a carport are all good alternatives to hanging them on the roof.How to String Holiday Lights on Your HouseIf you really want to put up holiday lights on your house, you can do so safely without damaging your roof or siding.Seek HelpOnly use a ladder with a partner nearby to help maintain stability and provide assistance. If you don't feel comfortable climbing a ladder or want additional help, contact a roofing contractor.Use Plastic ClipsYou can mount holiday lights using plastic clips that attach to gutters or shingles. The most common ones clip to the gutter's edge and hold either individual lights or the wire between them. You can also use siding clips to string lights vertically.Alternatively, you can install roof peak clips, which grip the shingle's edges at the top of the roof. They require access to the roof ridge, so professionals often use them.To remove the lights at the end of the season, take down the clips individually. Don't pull on the string of lights, as doing so could damage your gutters or the light string.Try Magnetic ClipsYou can use magnetic clips to attach individual bulbs or sockets to metal roofs or flashing. You can easily take them down by pulling on the string of lights (in this case, it's OK).While you're working around your roof, take a few minutes to inspect it for potential damage or quality issues. Contact a contractor if you have any concerns.Holiday Lighting OptionsSelect lights that are properly rated for outdoor use. LEDs are often recommended due to their energy efficiency, and they don't heat up like incandescent bulbs. You can also plug in multiple strings to the same outlet without fear of overloading the circuit, making LED lights more versatile.When it comes to types of holiday lighting, you have a few options.Large BulbsIt doesn't get much more traditional than large bulbs. You can use clips to ensure they're all pointing the same way, or string the cord through them for a more carefree look.Mini LightsMini lights don't put out as much light as large bulbs, so they may not be the best option for the roof. However, they're great for windows, trees, or indoor displays.Icicle LightsIcicle lights have strings of small bulbs that hang down from the gutter or roof to look like icicles. Use clips to attach the main string to the gutter line.Raindrop LightsRaindrop lights are animated to look like raindrops. You can hang them in a cluster in a small area or spots where traditional string lights don't work.Decorative Bulb CoversDecorative bulb covers give your home a unique look. You can get them shaped like snowmen, stars, ornaments, or other holiday motifs.Smart LightsSmart lights are the newest trend in holiday lighting. An app lets you control the lighting colors, patterns, intensity, and blinking speed so you can create your own unique light show. When paired with music, your home will become a neighborhood attraction.Remember to Prioritize SafetySafety should always be your first priority when you put up holiday lights. If you need a ladder to achieve your desired design, don't climb one without a helper nearby, and ensure you have the right ladder for the job. Also, attaching lights to your house with temporary clips instead of permanent fasteners can help keep your roofing system healthy.If you notice any roof damage or concerns while planning your holiday decorations, don't hesitate to contact a roofing contractor that's certified by GAF. They have the expertise to assess and address any roofing issues, ensuring your home stays protected throughout the holiday season and beyond.Whether you hang lights or opt for other outdoor decor, you can spread holiday cheer this season safely and creatively.

Harsh weather can damage your home, leading to expensive repairs or even making it unlivable in the worst cases. While you can't control the weather, you can take steps to try and minimize damage—like installing a durable roof.If you live in an area prone to harsh weather, metal roofing materials can help protect your home from elements like hail, rain, snow, and wind. Here's what you need to know about metal roofs and the protection they offer.Wind and Impact ResistanceMetal roofing shingles can help resist high winds due to their interlocking system, which helps provide wind uplift resistance. Interlocked panels help keep the materials in place and reduce the areas where winds can cause uplift, like the eaves and edges. Metal's smooth surface also lets air flow easily over it.The GAF TimberSteel™ Premium Metal Roofing System passes the ASTM D3161, Class F test method, wind resistance for the ASTM D3161, the highest possible category for wind resistance of steep slope roof coverings. This means it has been tested to handle 110 mph wind speeds under the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Steep Slope Roofing Products (Fan-Induced Method)*.GAF TimberSteel™ metal field shingles are classified to UL2218 Class 4 Impact Resistance, the highest rating available.Moisture ResistanceOffering excellent protection against wind-driven rain, the GAF TimberSteel™ passes the TAS -100 Wind-Driven test* for rain water intrusion.Custom Snow SolutionsWhile rain is one problem, snow can also damage your roof. Snow adds a heavy load to your roofing structure, and moisture can enter your home as it melts if given the opportunity.Metal roofs have a smooth surface that allows snow to slide off which may help prevent ice dams that form when snow melts and refreezes. Custom snow guards are available in the colors of the TimberSteel™ system to complement your roof.UV Radiation ResistanceSunlight can break down roofing materials over time. Metal roofing helps resist the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays which may contribute to its longevity.Consider Metal RoofingWith more areas experiencing extreme weather, homeowners all over the country may benefit from considering metal roofing materials.Does metal roofing sound right for your home? Explore the options GAF offers and sign up to get updates about the availability of GAF TimberSteel™ in your area.*Testing conducted under controlled laboratory conditions.

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5 Factors to Consider When Installing Solar Panels on a Roof

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