Ground Mount vs. Rooftop Solar Systems: Pros and Cons
So you’ve decided to go solar…
Congratulations, you’re so close to savings!
One thing you may be wondering is…
Here are some important factors that can help you make that choice:
How old is your roof?
If you’re leaning towards a roof-mounted solar system, considering the age of your roof is essential.
Sunly’s solar panels come backed by a 25 year warranty, so you want to ensure you won’t be needing to replace the roof anytime soon.
It is ideal to install solar panels over new roofing to avoid the hassle and cost of removal and reinstallation.
This also ensures that your roof is structurally sound and can reliably withstand the addition of the panels!
During your Sunly Site Inspection, we’ll inspect the condition of your roof to complete our structural engineering.
What material is your roof?
Solar panels can be installed over most roofing materials; shingle, or metal.
Shingle: to install over a shingle roof, we drill directly into the attached racking to secure the panels.
Metal: When it comes to standard metal roofs, and standing seam metal roofs, we use clamps to secure the panels. This is because drilling directly into the metal can cause extensive damage.
At Sunly, we will not install over steel shingles.
This is because we need to be certain that our installations will never damage your roof, and will withstand Mother Nature for years to come. Steel shingles can become brittle when drilled into, so we will never attempt to install over them.
If you want to see how we protect your roof during installation, watch this;
How much sunlight does your roof get?
This one’s a bit self explanatory, but the more sunlight your roof gets, the better for solar!
Sunly uses satellite imaging software to see how much sun your roof is hit with throughout the year.
Whether you’re in New Brunswick, PEI or Ontario, we can determine your estimated sun coverage for the year to size your solar panels accurately.
If you have a North facing roof surrounded by trees, a ground mount would be the ideal solution.
Are there any bylaws prohibiting certain types of solar installations?
Depending where you live, there may be some restrictions on ground mounts, or certain regulations that need to be followed to complete these installations. It is important to research what is legal in your area prior to installing a solar system.
Another factor to consider are fire bylaws. Throughout Canada, there are bylaws in place to ensure solar panels are kept a safe distance away from propane tanks, electrical meters, roadways, etc.
Sunly will navigate this red tape for you - your advisor will let you know if there are any regulations in your area to be adhered to.
How much land do you have available?
If you have enough land, a ground mount may be more appealing if you’re looking for easy access to your panels, or if your roof is not in good condition for panels.
If you live somewhere with very rocky terrain, it may not be ideal to install a ground mount system where piles need to be drilled deep into the ground.
There may be ballasting options that provide a solution to this - that’s why it’s always best to go with the pros!
So which is better?
Ground Mounts
Easy Access
Ground mounts give you the ability to access your panels easily without having to climb on your roof.
Tiltable
At Sunly, we give our clients a seasonal “tilt schedule” so they can maximize their sun-soakage year-round.
Sized to Your Needs
Roof mounts can only be as large as your roof… ground mounts can be as large as you want them!
Roof Mounts
Out of Sight
Roof mounts are tucked away out of sight, out of mind.
Less space-consuming
If you don’t have much land, or just want to enjoy the land you have unobstructed, roof mounts are for you!
No maintenance
While ground mounts can be tilted throughout the year to get that extra dose of sun, roof mounts just sit pretty for their lifetime - no effort from you required.
Do ground mount solar systems produce more energy than rooftop systems?
What are the main differences between ground mount and rooftop solar systems?
Ground mount systems are installed on the ground, offering flexibility in positioning, while rooftop systems are mounted on rooftops, utilizing existing space.
Which option is more cost-effective, ground mount, or rooftop solar?
The cost-effectiveness depends on various factors such as available space, site characteristics, and installation requirements. Solar panel cost can vary depending on all these factors, which is why it’s best to speak with a professional and explore your options prior to
Ground mount systems may have better energy production potential due to optimal positioning and fewer shading issues compared to rooftop systems.
How do I determine which option is best for my property?
If you’re in New Brunswick, PEI, or Ontario, and are considering adding solar panels to your property, your first step should be to call 1-833-GO-SUNLY to speak with a solar specialist who can give you expert advice!
Considering factors such as available space, roof condition, shading, and aesthetic preferences when choosing between ground mount and rooftop solar systems, solar specialists can provide an expert opinion on how to maximize your solar energy production.
Are there any restrictions or regulations for installing ground mount or rooftop solar systems in New Brunswick?
It's essential to check local regulations and zoning requirements before installing either type of solar system to ensure compliance.
Can I install both ground mount and rooftop solar systems on my property?
Yes, it's possible to install a combination of ground mount and rooftop solar systems to maximize energy production and space utilization.
How can I get started with choosing the right solar system for my property?
To explore your options and take the first step, click the "GET A FREE SOLAR ASSESSMENT" button below or reach out to us at 1-833-GO-SUNLY.