Pros & Cons of Ground Mounted Solar Panels vs. Roof Mounted Solar Panels
If you have just decided to add a solar system to your property, congratulations! Soon you will be harnessing energy from the sun to power up your home. What you may not be ready to decide is whether you should install ground-mounted or roof-mounted solar panels.
Not to worry! Our team at Solar Bear is here to help you decide.
Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of ground-mounted and roof-mounted solar panels so you can make the best decision for your home and energy needs.
Solar Panels
Once you have decided to install solar panels it is time to decide which mounting system is best for your property, living space, energy needs, and budget.
Ground Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mounted solar panels are installed on a rack structure that is connected to the ground with metal posts. They can be installed in an open area such as your yard or an adjacent field, or even as a carport over a parking lot.
Ground mounts can be installed wherever there are optimal solar conditions and can be a great alternative for homeowners who either don’t have enough roof space or would rather install solar panels elsewhere than the roof.
When installing ground-mounted solar panels, consider the terrain of your property and your long-term plans for your home and land.
Pros of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
- Ground mounts can face any direction, in any location.
- They can be installed at multiple angles for optimal energy production.
- They are easily accessed for maintenance.
- They can be installed as carports in existing parking lots to provide shading, lighting, and protection.
Cons of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
- Installation costs can be higher
- Can limit the use of the land
- Can take up large areas
- Easily accessed by unauthorized visitors
- Increased chance of damage from rocks or objects thrown by a lawnmower
- Requires mowing around multiple posts and low clearances
- May need to install a fence, adding to the overall cost.
Roof Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted solar panels are the most common. Racking holds the solar panels in place and is installed directly on your roof. Generally, solar panels can be attached to flat and sloping metal, shingled, or composite roofs.
When installing a roof-mounted solar system, make sure to consider the age and condition of your roof— will it be able to withstand the extra weight of a solar system and any necessary modifications? Also, will installing solar impact your roof’s warranty?
Pros of a Roof Mounted Solar Panels
- Roof mounts utilize roof space that otherwise isn’t used.
- Installation can be lower compared to ground-mounted systems
- Does not take up land
- Limits access to unauthorized visitors
- Panels can help protect the roof from the elements
Cons of Roof Mounted Solar Panels
- Roof modification and penetration is required to install on shingle roofs
- Could require a new roof depending on the age and condition of your current roof
- You may have to remove solar panels for roof repairs or when installing a new roof
- Adds extra weight to your roof and may require the installation of additional roof support
Bottom Line
Both roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar panel systems are great options to go solar. Ultimately, you will need to select the option the best meets your unique requirements
If you have plenty of unshaded roof space, then a roof mount is a great option—and cheaper. If you have limited roof space but want to take advantage of solar, a ground mount, or solar carport could be a great option for you.
Install Solar with Solar Bear
If you are ready to install a ground-mounted or a roof-mounted solar system, call our pros at Solar Bear! We offer free estimates on solar panel systems across Florida and can help you choose which solar system is best for your Florida property and energy needs.
Go solar with Solar Bear. Schedule a consultation today—407-904-7585!
