Solar Ground Mounts vs. Solar Roof Mounts
In many ways, Solar is as simple as installing a solar array to start taking advantage of the free energy the sun provides, but when you go solar, you must consider HOW you’re going to go Solar. Will you go with roof-mounted solar to optimize your space and make the most of the property that you have, or will you opt for ground-mounted solar to take advantage of the positioning freedom that isn’t afforded to roof-mounted systems?
No matter the mounting option you decide to go with, there is an abundance of benefits that come from going solar that are not exclusive to the type of mount you install; however, it is important that you make an educated decision that is best for the needs of your home or business. We’ll be looking at the advantages and disadvantages of ground-mounted solar arrays compared to roof-mounted solar arrays, and at the end of this article, you should have all of knowledge you need to make a decision for your upcoming solar project.
Ground Mount:
Roof Mount:
A Quick Comparison:
Ground-mounted systems take up a bit more space and require a sizable amount of property available to dedicate toward your panels, but they also offer easy access for installation and repair. Roof-mounted systems are less expensive as they utilize the existing roof as a foundation for installation. When you use your roof, you eliminate the need to take up precious property space for your solar installation, however, you are limited to the space that you have. When you install a ground-mounted system, you have the freedom to orient your solar panels in a way that maximizes your energy production, which isn’t necessarily afforded to roof-mounted systems due to roof obstructions.
Benefits of Ground Mounted Solar Systems:
The greatest freedom offered by ground mounts is the flexibility of placement. When you install ground-mounted systems you can align your panels to get as much sun as possible and the more sun you have, the more energy you’ll be producing. Ground-mounted systems produce optimal performance that outmatches rooftop systems, largely because of this. Another great advantage of a ground-mounted system is the ease of access it provides.
Instead of requiring a team to scale your home whenever you’re first installing your system or later when you’re upgrading/repairing the system, everything is on the ground and far easier to access. Having that ease makes upgrading your system in the future far less labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Ground mounts also make it simpler to clean your solar panels. Cleaning your system regularly is important. Dust, dirt, smog and sand can accumulate over time and affect the efficiency of your solar panels. Having your system on the ground eases the cleaning process and doesn’t necessarily require a team to do the work for you.
Benefits of Roof Mounted Solar Systems:
When space on your property is a constraint, then rooftop-mounted solar is an excellent choice. Roof mounts make use of the foundation that is already available to you. You won’t have to construct another structure on your property to house your solar panels, making rooftop-mounted systems less expensive. Installing a roof-mounted system also frees up precious space on your property that would have otherwise gone to solar.
Roof-mounted systems are also less expensive. You don’t have to create a racking system to house your solar panels, so the upfront cost is typically less than that of a ground-mounted system. Less metal = less costs. You’re working with a pre-existing structure which means you won’t have to purchase costly materials like poles or concrete, and you won’t have to have your soil surveyed before installing. Roof-mounted systems can be both more convenient and more affordable than ground-mounted systems.
Things to Consider When Making your Decision on Solar:
Ground Mounted
· Requires open property space for installation
· More expensive upfront cost
· More labor intensive
· Can be less aesthetically pleasing than roof-mounted system
Roof Mounted
· Difficult to repair, replace and restore
· Difficult to access
· Installer is limited to the space on their rooftop
· Roof holes lead to leak potential
· Potential to reroof
What is best for me?
Whichever solar energy solution you opt for is a good choice, but it’s important that you make the best decision for your home or business. If you are limited on space and looking to spend less up-front then roof-mounted solar is the way to go. If you have the property to spare and are looking for the most efficient solar energy solution, then ground-mounted systems are definitely your best bet.
Whichever system you decide to go with, our team at SolarTech is happy to help get you the information you need to get the job done. With over 20 years of experience in solar, we’re experts who ensure that every project receives the focused attention it deserves.
For more information about going solar with SolarTech, give us a call today at (619) 743-9193 or click the link below to receive a free quote!