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Roof
Coverings and Solar Panels
21 years ago, if I saw a solar panel on a roof, it was
an event! Even though inspection of solar units was, and still is not
part of a home inspection, it intrigued me. Many times the home
owners conceded that it did not work very well. Things have changed!
I probably have seen more solar panels in the last 2 years, than the
previous 19 combined. As stated, inspection of solar systems are
normally not part of a visual home inspection, however, we should be
concerned with the roof covering, structural components, and adjacent
areas. I am sure many of you are seeing deteriorated wood members on
many solar installs. Some solar systems are installed by unqualified
contractors, who drill directly through the shingles with uncoated,
unprotected lag screws. Installations like these, cause almost
immediate damage. Click on the “News From The Home Inspector World”
link at the left to see one such case. So how should solar panels be
installed to ensure there is no damage to the deck? And what should a
home inspector look for to properly advise their clients?
- The
solar panels should be properly matched to the life of the roof. Ensure
that the covering is in very good condition. Most solar panels have a
serviceable life of 20 years.
- Ensuring
the roof structure is strong enough for weight of the solar panels, and
has not been compromised during the install process. Look for sagging or
deflected areas near the panels.
- Ensure
the solar panels have not interrupted or caused water obstruction to the
roof drainage.
- Look
for damage caused by thermal expansion of the panels. Some panels could
expand up to .25% - which could equate up to 2 inches over 60 feet.
- Check
the area around the panels for installation damage caused by dragging
panels, tool damage, etc.
- Ensure
that the mounting brackets are properly flashed.
- Ensure
the screws and brackets are properly sealed and not rusting.
- Ensure
any cables, tubes, or wires go through a properly flashed solar port (the
photo next to the solar panels at the beginning of this article).
- Refer
to the brief video in the “New Products” link at the left of the email
newsletter for proper installation methods.
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