Solar Power: Ground vs. Roof Installation

Once you’ve decided to add solar power, you have to consider which type of solar panel installation is right for your home or business. While rooftop installations are more common, ground-mounted installations are another option, and it’s important to understand the differences to make an informed decision about which type will provide you with the best source of power at the lowest possible price.

Rooftop solar panel installation

Rooftop solar panel installation is the most common choice among homeowners when adding solar power. The sleek design of PowerHome’s solar panels provides renewable energy without sacrificing the beauty of your home. It also saves space, as not everyone has the land necessary to set up a ground-mounted installation of solar panels. A few things that may impact the possibility of rooftop solar panel installation on your home are:

• The amount of space available on your roof for solar panel installation.
• The angle of your rooftop.
• Which direction the area of installation faces; facing southward is ideal for optimal light.
• Other aspects that may affect the amount of direct sunlight the panels receive, such as neighboring buildings, skylights and even chimneys.
• The material your roofing is made out of (such as metal, tile, or wood).
• If there is any pre-existing damage to your roof that needs repair before solar panel installation takes place.

Pros

• Rooftop mounting does not occupy the ground area, which can save space and is suitable for users with limited land resources.
• Rooftop mounting can avoid shading of solar panels by ground obstructions and improve power generation efficiency.
• Rooftop mounting usually does not require additional racking and infrastructure, and installation costs are relatively low.

Cons

• Solar panels are limited by the structure of the roof. Factors such as the load bearing capacity, pitch angle and orientation of the roof can limit the size of the solar panel installation and the efficiency of the power generation.
• Rooftop solar panels are relatively difficult to maintain because they are maintained at high altitudes and require specialized equipment and skills.
• Roofs that have been exposed for a long period of time may suffer from deterioration, leaks, etc., and may need to be reinforced or repaired.

Realistically, rooftop solar panel installations are viable on most roofs if they are prepped correctly, so don’t let a lack of land stop you from scheduling a consultation for rooftop solar installations.

Ground solar panel installation

Though less common, ground-mounted solar panel installations are a great option for many homeowners. If your rooftop isn’t the ideal spot for a solar panel installation, the possibility of a ground-mounted installation can be explored. In fact, a ground solar panel installation may produce better results for your home. Ground solar panel installations may be a better option if:

• Your roof doesn’t have enough area to generate the amount of power your home needs.
• You have the land to choose the perfect spot for optimal peak sunlight absorption.
• Your rooftop is older and may need replacing before the lifespan of the solar panel installation.
• You live in an area that receives a lot of snow in the winter, as ground solar panel installations are easily cleared of that precipitation.

Pros

• For homes with larger footprints, ground mounting allows more solar panels to be installed to meet larger power demands.
• Because they are installed on the ground, wiring, cleaning and repairs are easier and do not require overhead work.
• Ground-mounted solar panels eliminate the risk of working at height, reducing safety risks and providing greater security.

Cons

• Ground mounting requires a certain amount of ground area and is not suitable for users with tight land resources.
• Ground mounting requires additional racking and infrastructure, and the installation cost is relatively high.
• Installing solar panels directly on the floor of your home may affect mobility and the aesthetics of the overall layout.

In conclusion, there are advantages and disadvantages of roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar panels, and home users need to choose according to their actual needs and conditions. PowerHome Solar Energy Store provides high quality solar panels that can meet your various installation needs and can also be taken outdoors for use. We hope the analysis and suggestions in this article can help you make the right choice and bring clean, sustainable energy to your home.