If you’re considering a solar roof, you have probably discovered that it requires a pretty hefty initial investment. It’s true. In general, new roofs can cost a good bit to have installed. Depending on many factors, a solar roof can cost a bit more upfront than other roofing types.

The question is whether that investment is worth it. As simple as the question might seem, the answer is anything but simple. In theory, yes, solar roofing is definitely worth it for many homeowners. However, there are several factors that can impact their effectiveness. This guide discusses some of the most significant factors to help you decide if solar roofing is right for you.

Is Solar Roofing Worth the Investment for You?

Solar Roofing

Where Do You Live?

One of the biggest factors is where you live – or more specifically, how much sunlight you get regularly. Think about it: solar roofing is designed to harness the sunlight and power your system.

Residents in states like Florida, California, and Arizona do well with solar roofing. For residents in states that don’t regularly get sunlight exposure, it might not be worth the cost.

What’s the Design of Your Roof?

In general, large roofs without many obstructions, such as chimneys, are best for solar panels. And, typically, your roof needs to be sloped between 30 and 45 degrees. If you have a small roof, a low slope, or several obstructions, solar roofing might not be the answer.

This is not always the case, though. There are some solar panels designed specifically for various types of roofs. However, they can sometimes come with a heftier price tag. You’ll need to talk to several solar roofing companies to determine if the panels you need are worth the investment.

Are There Any Incentives Available to You?

For a while now, the federal government has offered tax incentives and even assistance programs that can help ease the burden of solar roofing investment. There are also some state-based credits and incentives available. Looking into what’s available to you, can further help you determine if the cost is worth it.

Why Are You Interested in Solar Roofing?

For some people, the only consideration for solar roofing is the amount of money they can potentially save. For others, it’s about doing their part to save the environment. And then there are those that are interested in both.

If you are only interested in saving money, you’ll need to weigh the amount you can save against what you will spend. There are online solar calculators that can calculate savings. If you really want to lessen your environmental impact, you might find that the investment is worth it, even if you’re not saving that much money on your electricity bill. This really comes down to your personal goals, which should be taken into account as you make your decision.

The bottom line is that while solar panels are a great idea, they’re not the right move for everyone. To make the best decision, be sure to answer the questions above and do any necessary research and calculations.

 

Other Posts You Might Enjoy:

How to Choose the Best Roofing Material for Your Home

Do Solar Panels Cause Roof Damage on Homes?

The Aesthetics of a Rooftop Landscaping Project

4 of the Most Common Types of Roofing Materials

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

About the Author: Ashley Edwards