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Installing solar panels involves drilling small holes in your roof to secure the solar panel mounting brackets. These brackets hold the solar panels in place and must withstand strong weather conditions so they’re secured into your roof. However, holes and screws are sealed to prevent leaking and further damage.

The best solar panels to withstand hail are those rated UL 61730. These solar panels are certified to withstand hailstones up to 3 inches in diameter and travel at speeds up to 88 mph. IP68 solar panels are the next most resilient solar panel. Solar panels without these ratings can handle hail up to 1 inch in diameter that travels up to 50 miles per hour. If you live in an area with frequent or severe hailstorms, purchasing UL 61730 solar panels is often worth the investment.

Yes, installing solar panels or a solar roof can increase your home's value by approximately 4% to 6%. For a home with a median value of $429,000, this could translate to an increase of around $17,000. A well-maintained solar installation appeals to environmentally-conscious buyers and those looking to lower their utility bills, often helping homes sell faster and at a premium in areas with high electricity rates. However, the exact increase in value depends on factors like the local real estate market, energy costs, and available solar incentives. It's also important that the system is correctly installed and maintained; an older or poorly maintained system may not add significant value, particularly if it's near the end of its lifespan. Other solar features, like panels on a shed, can also boost your home's value.

Solar panels should get at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. It’s even better if sunlight reaches panels between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is enough to power a home, depending on your solar system’s size and energy needs. Remember that panels will generate some power under cloudy skies or in the shade, and many systems compensate for lower sun exposure by drawing energy from the grid or battery storage.