Should You choose Ground Mount or Roof Mount Solar Panels?
There are many ways to install solar panels. Some installations receive more sunlight than others, and some projects have a different goal in mind. What works for one person may not be the best option for the one.
Ground mount systems sit on top of ground-level structures like canopies or warehouses while roof-mounted options attach them to your existing rooftop structure such as dormers and chimneys with brackets that either clamp onto the sides or bolt into place through holes drilled with construction grade drill bits made specifically for this purpose (which is always done before installation).
Advantages of Ground mount systems
Multiple installation options
Ground mounts can be installed to face any direction and in almost any location, positioning them for optimal energy production.
In addition, they do not require as much maintenance or safety precautions because the ground is a natural insulator that protects against electrical shorts.
Ground Mounts are perfect for solar panel installation. They don't need leveling like roof-mounted panels. You just turn it wherever it's most convenient on your property (assuming there are no trees!).
And unlike typical installations that utilize some form of structure such as poles or patios, Ground Mounts have an efficient terrestrial design. So they're more secure from wind damage than their elevated counterparts.
Can be Installed at multiple angles
Ground mounts can be installed at a variety of angles to meet your needs. The ground mount is ideal for those who want more flexibility in their positioning without having to stretch cords across an entire room or worry about drilling holes into expensive flooring.
Because they're designed with flexible metal arms and legs that help you find just the right angle so it's reading directly from underneath where you need it the most.
Excellent for Large Arrays
Ground-mounted solar panel systems are excellent for large arrays because they can be installed on the ground and don't have a height limit.
This means that their efficiency is never inhibited by factors like air resistance or shading, which affects how much power an array will produce in different parts of the day.
More Economical
Ground mounts are an economical and sturdy option for mounting solar panels, as they provide a stable foundation with little risk of damage.
They also allow the array to be installed at different angles based on wind direction which means you can maximize your energy production.
Easy to Access
Ground mounts are much more accessible, often requiring little to no climbing equipment.
Despite being easier for maintenance-requiring tasks because of their location closer to the ground level, roof mounts can be difficult and height may pose a hazard when carrying out inspections or repairs.
Offers shading for Carparks
Ground mounts can be installed in existing parking lots. This will provide shading, lighting, and protection to the parked cars as well as a sleek appearance that is easy on the eye for drivers who are passing by or those who use said parking lot daily.
Disadvantages of Ground mount systems
Higher Installation costs
Ground mounts typically have higher installation costs than rooftop solar systems. However, ground-mounted installations are often more effective and produce a larger amount of energy per square foot than their rooftop counterparts.
Ground mount solar panels can be an excellent investment for many homeowners looking to save money on utility bills in the future by installing fixed power sources that will not need constant maintenance overtime or additional expensive repairs down the road like traditional photovoltaic (PV) cells from rooftops do when they become cracked and worn out due to weather damage.
Limits the use of the land
Installing solar panels on the ground limits your use of available space by limiting what can be built on top of it.
Vulnerable to Theft & Vandalism
Ground mount systems are placed on the ground and are vulnerable to theft and vandalism.
Homeowners go with a rooftop installation in order to ensure that there's safety from any potential thieves.
Higher chance of accidents
Ground mounts are more vulnerable to damage than rooftop solar systems.
If you have a ground mount, it is important that the area around it be clear of any debris from lawn care in order to reduce your risk for the accidental destruction of your system.
Requires additional protection
Ground mount solar systems have an additional cost to them. They must be installed in a location that is not trespassing on neighboring property or privately owned land.
This means they need a protective barrier of some sort around the perimeter such as a barbed-wire fence for example. This increases the price and installation time required by about 30%.
Can make mowing harder
Ground mount solar systems can be a pain when it comes to mowing. The posts and panels cover up much of the ground which usually requires an inch or two clearances, leaving only enough room for one person's toes beneath them at a time.
Ground-mount solar energy is often limited in its placement options due to these height restrictions.
If you plan on installing your system outside what would typically be considered “ground” level, then they will have to go underground with trenches that damage any existing landscaping near their location.
Alternatively, they can stay above ground but require significant space between poles so as not to impact nearby grass areas through simple wear and tear over time.
Advantages of Roof Mount Solar systems
Utilizes unused roof space
Roof mounts solar systems allow you to utilize space that would otherwise go unused.
A roof mount is an alternative for people who want a clean look and don't have the option of mounting panels on their ground-level property, like renters or condo owners without exterior walls.
Less Expensive
With a roof-mounted solar system, you'll be able to harness the power of the sun without having an unsightly installation on your property.
This type is less expensive than ground mounting and doesn't take up any space in your yard.
Installation costs are also lower than ground-mount systems because they don't need any extra infrastructure (foundation).
More Secure (Against theft & vandalism)
Solar-powered roof mounts are a great way to reduce the risk of theft and vandalism. Roofs are harder for thieves or vandals to access, so this innovative protective measure is much safer than other alternatives.
Protection against degradation
Roof mounts solar systems are an excellent way to protect your roof from the degradation caused by exposure.
Disadvantages of Roof Mount Solar systems
May damage roof shingles
The installation of solar panels on your roof can have a negative impact if not done properly.
Not only does it take away from the aesthetics, but also there is the risk for leaks and water damage when installing these systems because they are installed through holes in the roofs.
May require roof repair
If you are considering installing solar panels on your roof, make sure that the condition of it is good.
Building a system onto an old or poor-quality roof can cause leaks and malfunctioning equipment.
If you want to install solar panels on your home's rooftop, be aware that they may need repairs before installation because building them onto an older or bad-quality one could potentially lead to leaking roofs and other malfunctions in future years.
May require system removal for roof repair
You might have to remove and reinstall panels for roof repairs or to install a new roof, but with solar mounts from your local hardware store, you can go about it effortlessly.
Adds additional weight on the roof
The weight of your roof solar system can add a significant amount of pressure and stress to the structure.
In some cases, it may be necessary to reinforce structural elements with concrete piers or piles before installing any panels for added safety.
May reduce appeal of home
Some people believe that solar panels on your roof can reduce the value of a home. They argue they make homes appear less appealing and are not aesthetically pleasing, though others say this is simply an outdated perception.
Can be dangerous to install if safety is not prioritized
Some installation teams struggle with the safety hazards posed by solar roof mount systems.
For example, workers have been injured on ladders while installing or repairing these panels due to their weight and height from ground level.
Some installers are at risk of injury when working around heavier-than-average rooftop-mounted solar panels because those heights can be difficult for some people to reach without a ladder.
In order to install a solar panel on your roof, you need to be aware of its age and condition.
Solar panels are heavy objects which can cause damage over time if not installed correctly.
In addition, there is always the risk that one day they will break altogether and in turn destroy even more property- so make sure you’re thinking about this before installation.
