Luke from Madison County asked, “I’m planning a new build and considering putting solar on my roof. What do I need to know?”
Thanks for your question Luke and happy to help. I’ve developed a list of best practices:
- Design large south (180 degrees) facing roof to optimize sunlight collection.
- North facing exposures are not suitable for solar. East and west are also viable options.
- Reduce or eliminate obstructions on south/east/west facing roofs.
- Examples:
- minimize vent pipes, reduce or eliminate shading created by chimneys
- consider future shade impact from tree planting or home orientation on property with existing trees.
- Examples:
- Ideal roof pitch is 23-30 degrees.
- Best roofing materials include metal standing seam, architectural grade shingles or flat membrane.
- Install 2″ metal conduit from attic to utility closet.
- PVC is fine for outdoor tracing
- Metal conduit required for inside DC wiring
- Install cat 5 wire for internet service to the utility closet.
- Leave a 4′ x 4′ of wall space in the utility area for the inverter.
- When you have architectural plans (PDF format) contact StraightUp Solar.
- At that time, we can provide you rough pricing so you’re able to explore
- Financing options.
- Our work commences before sheet rock is installed on the walls and the before the landscaping is completed.
Send your solar genius questions to hello@straightupsolar.com and put in the subject line SOLAR GENIUS.
