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Factors to Consider when having Solal Panels Fitted on your Roof
Roofers Cincinnati • August 27, 2022
Roofers Cincinnati have seen an increase in the number of property owners enquiring about solar photovoltaic (PV) panel installations on their roofs. This is likely due to the recent increase in energy costs plus focus on renewable methods. Solar panels can provide long term economic and environmental benefit and potential future tax breaks. However, it is difficult to generalise on the advantages due to the variables involved.
If you are thinking of having solar panels fitted our roofers in Cincinnati have outlined some factors to consider.
Building Restrictions
Prior to having solar panels installed you should check that there are no zoning or district restrictions that would prevent the use of solar panels on your roof. There may also be restrictions on the amount of glazing that can be used in buildings due to glare.
Utilisation of Investment Tax Credits
Roofers Cincinnati understand that using investment tax credits provide the installation of solar panels with an attractive rate of return. However, in order to take advantage of the credits you need you need to have a taxable income. For this reason, ownership of the panels and building are important to ascertain before going ahead with the roof construction and solar panel installation.
Distance from Transmission Infrastructure
Our roofers in Cincinnati advise building owners of the importance of realising the distance of your property from the transmission infrastructure. The closer you are to the grid the more economically viable it is to sell your excess power to them. You may need to buy the energy back if you are not producing enough to meet your needs or have no means of storing the excess energy.
Shading Analysis
To obtain the maximum benefit solar panels cannot be shaded by higher objects such as adjacent structures, tree canopies etc. Therefore, prior to installation, Roofers Cincinnati, advise that a shade analysis will be required. To minimise shading from the panel fitted in front, the PV's have a tilt of 5 - 10 degrees.
Roof design and structure
It is ideal to install solar panels at least 12 feet from the ground to minimise vandalism from animals. Wind velocity increases with height, therefore, our roofers in Cincinnati advise it is more economical to fit solar panels on a roof that is under 60 feet. Panels installed above this height may need structural reinforcement requiring extra reinforcement.
Your contractors will need to assess whether your roof capacity is adequate for the solar panel load. This is especially true if your are fitting solar panels to an existing roof.
Solar panels rarely need to be directly attached to the roof or membrane to prevent them from flying off. Support systems are available that enable the panels to be easily removed when the roof membrane or coverings need to be replaced. It is worth asking your supplier regarding the ease of removing the panels for any future roof maintenance.
We have highlighted just some of the factors that need to be considered prior to having solar panels fitted. Contact Roofers Cincinnati for expert roofing advice and your free competitive quote. Flat
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Inspector Roofers Cincinnati advise as the sweltering summer days begin to fade, Cincinnati homeowners know that fall is just around the corner. With its crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cooler temperatures, fall is a beautiful season—but it also brings unique challenges for your home’s roof. Preparing your roof for the upcoming fall weather is crucial to ensure it can withstand the seasonal changes and protect your home throughout the winter months. Our roofers in Cincinnati have provided some essential tips to help you get your roof ready for fall in Cincinnati. 1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts Cincinnati's fall season is known for its stunning autumn leaves. However, as those leaves start to fall, they can quickly accumulate in your gutters and downspouts, leading to clogs and potential water damage. Clogged gutters prevent rainwater from flowing properly, which can cause water to back up under your roof's shingles and lead to leaks. To avoid this, make gutter cleaning a priority. Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and ensure your downspouts are clear. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional to do the job safely. Additionally, installing gutter guards can be a wise investment to minimize the frequency of gutter cleaning and prevent clogs. 2. Inspect for Roof Damage After a hot and stormy summer, your roof may have sustained some wear and tear. Before fall arrives, it’s essential to inspect your roof for any signs of damage that could worsen with the colder weather. Look for: Missing or damaged shingles: Shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing altogether can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks. Replace any damaged shingles promptly. Flashing issues: Flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents can deteriorate over time. Check for any gaps, rust, or loose materials that need repair. Roof valleys: These areas are especially prone to water pooling, so ensure they’re free of debris and in good condition. Moss or algae growth: Moss and algae can trap moisture and damage your roof. Clean these off carefully using a moss removal solution. If you spot any issues during your inspection, it’s best to address them before fall weather sets in. Small repairs now can prevent more significant problems later. 3. Ensure Proper Insulation and Ventilation Cincinnati’s fall nights can get quite chilly, and as temperatures drop, proper insulation and ventilation become more important than ever. A well-insulated and ventilated roof helps regulate your home's temperature, reduces energy costs, and prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold and mildew. Check your attic’s insulation to ensure it’s adequate for the coming colder months. If you notice any thin or missing insulation, consider adding more. Also, make sure your attic ventilation is functioning correctly. Proper ventilation allows warm, moist air to escape, reducing the risk of condensation and ice dams forming on your roof during winter. 4. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches Cincinnati’s beautiful tree-lined streets are one of the city’s trademarks, but overhanging branches can pose a threat to your roof. As the weather cools, these branches can become brittle and break, potentially causing damage to your roof. Trimming back any branches that hang over your roof not only prevents them from causing damage but also reduces the amount of debris that can fall into your gutters. 5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection While DIY inspections are helpful, nothing beats the expertise of a professional roofing contractor. Scheduling a professional roof inspection in late summer or early fall ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed before the colder, wetter months arrive. A professional will have the tools and knowledge to spot problems that might go unnoticed by the untrained eye. They can also offer recommendations for repairs or maintenance to extend the life of your roof. 6. Check for Proper Drainage Around Your Home While this tip isn’t directly related to your roof, it’s equally important for protecting your home from fall weather. Make sure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. This ensures that water doesn’t pool near the base of your home, which can lead to leaks and other issues. Checking this before fall rains begin can help prevent water-related damage to your roof and foundation. Final Thoughts Preparing your roof for Cincinnati’s fall weather is a smart investment in your home’s long-term health. By taking the time to clean your gutters, inspect for damage, ensure proper insulation, trim trees, and schedule a professional inspection, you can enjoy the beauty of fall without worrying about your roof’s ability to protect your home. Don’t wait until the leaves start to fall—take action now to get your roof ready for the season ahead. If you need assistance or a professional inspection, contact a trusted Cincinnati roofing contractor to ensure your home is prepared for whatever fall weather may bring.
Inspector Roofers Cincinnati advise that Selling a home is a significant endeavor that involves many considerations, from staging and curb appeal to necessary repairs and upgrades. One crucial aspect that can substantially impact your home's value and appeal is the condition and quality of your roof. In Cincinnati, where the weather can be unpredictable and diverse, ensuring your roof is in top shape is essential.Our roofers in Cincinnati have provided some roofing projects to consider before putting your Cincinnati home on the market, along with popular roofing trends that can help attract buyers and increase your home's value. 1. Repair or Replace Damaged Shingles Before listing your home, it's vital to address any damaged or missing shingles. Cracked, curled, or absent shingles can signal to potential buyers that the roof may need costly repairs. In Cincinnati, where storms and heavy winds are common, ensuring your roof is intact and robust is crucial. Replacing damaged shingles not only improves the roof’s appearance but also reassures buyers about the home's integrity. 2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Roofing Energy-efficient roofing materials are increasingly popular among homebuyers looking to reduce their energy bills and environmental footprint. Consider installing cool roofing materials, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs. In Cincinnati’s humid summer months, this can help keep homes cooler and lower air conditioning costs, making your property more attractive to eco-conscious buyers. 3. Add a Fresh Coat of Reflective Coating Applying a reflective coating to your existing roof can enhance its appearance and improve energy efficiency. This relatively low-cost upgrade can make a big difference in your home’s curb appeal. Reflective coatings are particularly beneficial in Cincinnati, where summer temperatures can soar, providing a cooler home environment and reducing energy consumption. 4. Install a New Roof with Modern Materials If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, investing in a new roof can significantly boost your home’s market value. Modern roofing materials such as metal, architectural shingles, or synthetic slate not only offer enhanced durability but also provide a sleek, contemporary look. In Cincinnati, where winters can be harsh, and summers hot, these materials can offer better weather resistance and longevity. 5. Improve Roof Ventilation Proper roof ventilation is essential for maintaining a comfortable home environment and extending the lifespan of your roof. In Cincinnati, with its varying seasonal temperatures, ensuring good ventilation can prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold. Upgrading or adding ventilation systems can be a selling point for buyers concerned about air quality and roof health. 6. Consider Installing Skylights Skylights can add natural light and a sense of spaciousness to your home, making it more appealing to buyers. They are particularly desirable in areas like Cincinnati, where winter months can be long and dark. Installing energy-efficient skylights can also enhance the aesthetic appeal and value of your home, offering a unique selling feature. 7. Clean and Maintain Gutters Clean and well-maintained gutters are essential for protecting your roof and home from water damage. Ensure that your gutters are free from debris and functioning correctly. In Cincinnati, where rainfall is common, well-maintained gutters can prevent water from seeping into the roof and foundation, providing peace of mind to potential buyers. Popular Roofing Trends in Cincinnati To maximize your home's appeal, consider these popular roofing trends in Cincinnati: Architectural Shingles: These shingles offer a dimensional look and are available in various colors and styles, providing a modern, upscale appearance. Metal Roofing: Known for its durability and energy efficiency, metal roofing is gaining popularity in Cincinnati for its ability to withstand severe weather conditions. Green Roofing: Eco-friendly roofs, such as those with vegetation or solar panels, are becoming more attractive to buyers interested in sustainable living. Mixed Material Roofs: Combining different roofing materials, like metal and shingles, can create a unique and appealing look, setting your home apart from others on the market. Conclusion Investing in roofing projects before selling your Cincinnati home can significantly enhance its value and appeal. Whether you’re addressing necessary repairs or opting for modern upgrades, a well-maintained and stylish roof can make a lasting impression on potential buyers. By considering these roofing projects and trends, you’ll be better positioned to attract interest and secure a favorable sale. Contact Inspector Roofers Cincinnati for professional advice and your free competitive quote
Inspector Roofers Cincinnati advise that as environmental concerns become increasingly prominent, many homeowners are seeking sustainable alternatives for their homes. One area ripe for eco-friendly innovation is roofing . Green roofing options not only reduce your carbon footprint but can also offer significant energy savings, enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal, and even provide financial incentives. In this blog post, our roofers in Cincinnati will explore some of the most popular environmentally friendly roofing options available for homeowners in Cincinnati, along with the benefits they offer and any local incentives that can help offset installation costs. 1. Solar Roofs What are they? Solar roofs incorporate photovoltaic (PV) panels or solar shingles that generate electricity from sunlight. These systems can be installed on top of your existing roof or integrated into the roofing material itself. Benefits: Energy Savings: Solar roofs can significantly reduce your electricity bills by generating your own power. Tax Incentives: Federal tax credits are available for solar installations, and Ohio offers additional incentives, such as property tax exemptions for the added value from solar installations. Environmental Impact: By harnessing renewable energy, solar roofs help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Local Incentives: Duke Energy Solar Rebate Program: Cincinnati residents may qualify for rebates from Duke Energy for installing solar panels. Federal Solar Tax Credit: Homeowners can claim a federal tax credit for a portion of the installation costs. 2. Cool Roofs What are they? Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs. They typically use highly reflective paint, a sheet covering, or highly reflective tiles or shingles. Benefits: Energy Efficiency: By keeping your home cooler, cool roofs reduce the need for air conditioning, leading to lower energy bills. Comfort: These roofs can make your home more comfortable during the hot summer months. Longevity: Cool roofs can extend the life of your roof by reducing thermal expansion and contraction. Local Incentives: Energy Efficiency Rebates: Check with local utility companies, as they often offer rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, including cool roofs. 3. Green Roofs What are they? Green roofs, or living roofs, are partially or completely covered with vegetation planted over a waterproof membrane. They often include additional layers for root barrier, drainage, and irrigation systems. Benefits: Insulation: Green roofs provide excellent insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs. Stormwater Management: They absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and lowering the risk of flooding. Biodiversity: Green roofs can create habitats for local wildlife. Aesthetic Appeal: They enhance the visual appeal of urban and residential buildings. Local Incentives: Stormwater Management Incentives: The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati offers incentives for green infrastructure projects, including green roofs, to help manage stormwater runoff. Tax Credits: Certain green roofing systems may qualify for state or federal tax credits aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. 4. Recycled Roofing Materials What are they? These roofs are made from recycled materials, such as metal, rubber, or plastic. For example, recycled metal roofs use reclaimed steel or aluminum, while rubber roofs might use recycled tires. Benefits: Sustainability: Using recycled materials reduces waste and the demand for new raw materials. Durability: Recycled materials can be extremely durable and long-lasting. Energy Efficiency: Some recycled roofing materials, like metal, reflect sunlight and reduce cooling costs. Local Incentives: Green Building Incentives: Look for local green building programs that offer incentives for using sustainable materials. The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED program, for example, provides guidelines and incentives for using recycled materials in construction. Making the Green Choice Choosing an eco-friendly roofing option is a smart investment for both your home and the environment. By reducing energy consumption, lowering utility bills, and taking advantage of local incentives, you can make your roofing project more affordable while contributing to a sustainable future. For Cincinnati homeowners, the push towards green roofing is supported by various local and federal programs. Be sure to explore all available incentives and rebates to maximize your savings. If you're ready to make the switch to a greener roof, contact Inspector Roofers Cincinnati to learn more about your options and get a free consultation. Let's work together to create a more sustainable Cincinnati, one roof at a time!
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