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A home expansion promises a lot of work and dedication from you. But it’s an exciting step to work up to your dream house! But if you already have a solar setup on your roof, that excitement could get muddled. The main question here is: Will this home expansion be a problem for my solar panels?
If you’re looking for an answer, you’re in the right place. We will have you understand how home improvements can impact solar panels in home expansion projects, and what steps to take to ensure everything continues working efficiently.
Why Solar Panels Can Be Affected by Home Expansion
Change in Roofing
When you expand your home, especially vertically, your roof structure often changes too. This can directly influence how your solar panels are positioned or how well they function. In some cases, you may need to remove and reposition some panels. This might even come down to setting up a new system entirely. That’s why it’s important to consider solar panels in home expansion early in the planning stage.
Shading and Sunlight Interference
New construction could unintentionally block sunlight from reaching your panels. A second-story addition, for example, could cast shadows on previously unobstructed panels. Since sunlight is crucial to panel performance, any shading, even partial, can lower the system’s output. Always evaluate how your expansion may alter the sunlight path over your roof throughout the day.
Things to Consider Before Starting Your Expansion
Let Us Know Early
The best time to think about solar panels in home expansion is during the planning phase. By getting in touch with a local solar energy installer early, you can avoid costly mistakes later. They can work with your architect or contractor to assess the layout and ensure your energy system remains efficient, or recommend adjustments if needed.
Can Your Roof Handle More?
Home additions can alter how weight is distributed on your roof. Solar panels also add weight, so you should assess how suitable your new roof is.
What Happens to Existing Solar Panels During Construction?
Temporary Removal May Be Necessary
In many cases, some or all of your panels may need to be taken down for a bit during construction. Not just for structural changes, but also to keep them safe from damage. Solar Pro can help manage the removal and reinstallation process efficiently and safely.
System Downtime and Energy Impact
If panels are removed, your system may go offline temporarily. It’s a good idea to plan this downtime so it doesn’t surprise you too much. We can give you an estimate of how long you’ll be without solar power and offer tips for minimizing the impact on your energy bills during this time.
Is It a Good Time to Upgrade Your System?
Room for More Panels
Since you’re already making changes, it could be the perfect time to add more solar capacity. If your energy needs are growing, your newly expanded roof might offer space to grow your energy system too! Discuss your long-term energy goals with us to see if this is the right moment to make those upgrades.
Newer Tech and Efficiency Gains
If your solar setup is a few years old, now might be a good time to explore newer, more efficient technology. While it’s not always necessary, integrating more efficient components during a home expansion could lead to better performance and increased energy savings.
If you need help calculating how much this expansion may be, take a look at our breakdown of the current price of solar panels in New York to give you more transparency.
Navigating Local Permits and Guidelines
Building Codes and Solar Regulations
Depending on your location, expanding a home with a solar setup may require updated permits or inspections. Local regulations often change, and new construction might trigger fresh reviews of your energy system. Be sure to check with both your home contractor and us to ensure you’re compliant with the latest rules.
Utility Coordination
If you’re increasing your system’s size or altering its position, it may require notification to your utility provider. This is especially true if the changes affect how your system connects to the grid. Solar Pro will guide you through this process to ensure a smooth transition so you can enjoy your newly expanded home with no stress.
Plan Smart, Expand Easy
Home improvement doesn’t have to come at the cost of energy efficiency. Think of this as an opportunity to make your solar setup even better. Contact Solar Pro and let us know your next steps in the process. We can help you with your expansion plans from the start so you can avoid any future headaches that might arise.