The installation of solar panels on your roof can be an exciting time as it means you will be cutting down your energy costs considerably, but doing this will involve drilling holes in your roof, which could beg the question of whether this will cause your roof to leak? There are various reasons your roof could leak after installing solar panels.
If solar panels are not ideally suited for your roof, poor installation tactics can make your roof leak. Roofs made from wood shingles, clay, slate, and terracotta tiles are particularly vulnerable to leaks and damage during installation.
If you’re experiencing roof leaks after installing solar panels, contact a professional roofing contractor who specializes in solar panel installations for a thorough inspection. They can identify the source of the leaks and recommend appropriate solutions.
Most modern roofs are compatible and able to withstand the installation of solar panels, but in some cases, the roof material is susceptible to leaks. If your roof is made from clay, terracotta, wood shingles, or slate, there is an increased risk of leaks developing through the installation.
Installing solar panels on roofs that are over thirty years old can cause damage due to existing deterioration in the plywood or rafters under the roof. The added stress from the solar installation can make these weak spots more prone to leaks, causing further damage.
Exposure to weather conditions and UV radiation over time can cause sealants to degrade, leading to gaps that allow water to infiltrate and cause a post-solar panel leak. Regular inspection and maintenance of the sealants can help prevent this issue. Roof age and condition also impact the risk of a post-solar panel leak.