21 Apr Learn All About Solar Panels For Residential Roofing In Bradenton

Everything You Need To Know About Solar Panels
For Residential Roofing In Bradenton

Get The Answers You Need To
Go Solar with Confidence!

You live in sunny Florida, so why not put that sunshine to work for you? Residential roofing in Bradenton means more than just shelter. It’s an opportunity to harness solar power and save on energy costs.

But before you make the switch, you probably have a few questions.

How do solar panels work? What happens if you generate more energy than you use? And what about cloudy or rainy days? Will you still have power even when the sun isn’t shining?

Universal Roofing & Contracting wants you to feel confident when upgrading your home. As a leading roofing contractor in Central Florida and Jacksonville, we offer the best solutions for your property. Follow along as we answer some of the most common solar panel questions so you can make an informed decision for your home.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

The simple answer is they convert energy from the sun to produce heat and electricity.

Solar panels are designed to capture sunlight and transform it into usable energy. Inside a solar panel, you’ll find photovoltaic cells. These cells generate direct current (DC), which is then converted into alternating current (AC) using an inverter.

AC electricity flows back and forth, making it practical for long distances. It powers your home – running your HVAC system, keeping the lights on, and powering your appliances.

But what if it’s cloudy? Will your home still get power? Yes! Solar panels work even on overcast days because some sunlight still reaches the Earth, though at a reduced efficiency.

Is My Home Good For Solar Panels?

Will solar panels work for your home? The answer comes down to what type of roof you have and the condition it’s in. A strong, well-maintained roof ensures you get the most out of your solar panel investment.

Before going solar, consider the age of your roof. If it’s over 15 years old, replacing your roof before getting solar panels can prevent expensive problems later on.

If your roof needs repairs, Universal Roof & Contracting has the experience and certifications to handle it. We have you covered no matter the material, whether it is Spanish tiles, asphalt shingles, slate roofs, or more.

The structure of your roof also plays a role. South-facing roofs with a moderate to steep slope capture the most sunlight, but other orientations can still work with the right system.

Finally, the roofing material matters. Asphalt shingles, metal, and tile are the best options because they’re durable and compatible with solar mounting systems.

Is Solar Worth It For A Small Household?

If you live alone or have a small household, you might wonder if solar panels are worth it. After all, how would you use all that energy?

That’s where net metering comes in. Rules vary by state, but net metering allows you to return extra solar energy to the grid.

How does it work? A special meter tracks both the power you use and the excess energy your system produces.

During the day, your solar panels will likely produce more power than your home needs—even for larger households. That extra energy goes back to the grid, earning you credits. At night or on cloudy days, when your panels aren’t producing enough, you can draw electricity from the grid.

The best part? Most houses produce more energy than they can use, so it’s very likely you’ll save money on your energy bill.

How Long Does It Take To Install Solar Panels?

Installing solar panels in Central Florida typically takes 1-3 months, but not because the installation takes that long. Most of the wait is due to city permits and utility company approvals.

Do you have an HOA? Their approval is also required before installation can happen. Once all permits are secured, your solar provider will schedule the installation.

Before moving forward, inspecting your roof is crucial to ensure it’s in good condition and ready for solar panels. A residential roof inspection can identify missing shingles, leaks, or structural issues requiring repairs.

A roof inspection ensures your roof can handle the weight of a solar system and withstand the elements. Inspectors also check for challenges like steep slopes or unique shapes that could affect installation.

Need a roof inspection in Bradenton? We can help! Contact Universal Roof & Contracting today to schedule your free inspection.