Get matched with top solar panel pros in Emily, MN

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 time it takes to install solar panels depends on the number of panels and the size of your home, but installation takes between two and three days of work. While most contractors can install the panels over the course of a couple of days, switching to solar energy can take two to three months in total. This includes the time it takes to design the system, procure the parts, obtain the permits, install the panels, connect to the main power grid, and get an inspection.

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 shingles and solar panels are not the same. While solar shingles use the same technology as traditional solar panels, they integrate with your existing roof. That means they are used to build your roof instead of simply resting on top of it. When comparing solar shingles and solar panels, it's helpful to know that solar shingles are more aesthetically pleasing than solar roof panels. They also do better in harsh weather due to limited uplift from strong winds.