Structural Integrity and Decking
Solar panels and their mounting hardware add significant weight to your home. The first step in solar-ready roofing in Central Michigan is a thorough inspection of your roof decking and rafters. If your wood is soft or rotted, it must be replaced to provide a secure anchor for the racking system.
In Mt. Pleasant, Alma, Midland, and Clare, we also have to account for snow loads. Your roof must be strong enough to support both the panels and the weight of a heavy Michigan winter snowfall.
Choosing the Right Shingles
Not all shingles are created equal when it comes to supporting solar. For solar-ready roofing in Central Michigan, we recommend high-quality architectural shingles with a long lifespan. Since solar panels can last 25 years, you want a roofing material underneath them that will last just as long.
Installing a “lifetime” shingle system today prevents the massive headache of having to dismantle your solar array later because the shingles underneath have failed.
Proper Flashing and Waterproofing
The mounting brackets for solar panels require drilling holes into your roof. This is where solar-ready roofing in Central Michigan becomes technical. Using professional-grade flashing and high-quality ice and water shields ensures that these “penetrations” stay watertight.
If these areas aren’t sealed perfectly, water can seep into your attic, leading to mold and structural rot that is hidden by the panels themselves.
Optimizing Attic Ventilation
Solar panels can trap heat against your roof surface. As part of a solar-ready roofing Central Michigan project, it is vital to review your attic ventilation. Ensuring you have a balanced intake and exhaust system prevents your shingles from overheating under the panels.
Proper airflow keeps your home cooler and extends the life of your roofing materials, even when they are covered by solar hardware.
Call Energy Plus Home Improvements
Ready to power your home with the sun? Energy Plus Home Improvements can ensure your roof is solar-ready and built to last.
