Written by Primamundi.com Guest Writer, Monica Smith

For most homeowners, an electricity bill is one of the monthly costs you take for granted. But more and more homeowners are making use of solar power to become energy independent. You deserve to be energy independent. With solar panels, freedom and sustainability are just a sun’s ray away. If you’re a homeowner who’s on the fence about installing solar panels on your house, you can make an informed choice by becoming familiar with the benefits of solar energy and the preparation necessary to begin the installation process. Learn more about different aspects of solar power at https://primamundi.com/?s=solar+power

Why Go Solar?

Green building engineers tout the powerful benefits of installing solar panels on your home. You can reduce your energy bill or eliminate it entirely by storing excess energy in batteries for use at night or on cloudy days. There are other financial saving benefits as well. Perhaps most obvious and most important, switching to solar energy is a huge boon for the environment. Each family or individual that makes the switch to solar power is another shield raised in defense against energy pollution.

Another practical benefit of converting your home to solar energy is that it makes your home stand out in a crowded housing market. This kind of distinction can be important in a buyer’s market. If, for example, you need to sell your home in such a situation, having solar panels and the reduced cost of ownership that goes with them could be critical in attracting a buyer.

The Best Roofs for Solar Panels

The first consideration for energy-conscious homeowners should be the best roof types for installing solar panels. Your roof type can affect the length and cost of installation, but the most suitable roofs are those made from durable material. The ease of attaching the solar array to the structure is an important factor as well. Roofs with standing seams make for easy attachment, while some materials such as gravel require asphalt or pitch to adhere to the panels. With varying levels of ease, the following roof types will work best for residential solar panel installation:

  • Metal standing seam roofs
  • Composite roofs
  • Tar and gravel roofs
  • Tile roofs
  • Cedar shake roofs

Preparing to Install Solar Panels

Your first concern about switching to solar is likely cost. Although there is generally a substantial cost savings when switching to solar, it is best to do your research before committing to installation. Companies in different areas may charge different amounts, and solar panel pricing will vary based on wattage capacity. Look online for estimates in your area, and then contact a few local companies that have positive reviews. Ask them to come out to look at your home and roof, and to provide a written estimate that includes the anticipated panel arrangement on your roof.

There are many preparations to make before installing solar panels on your roof. Once the decision has been made, prudent homeowners will make a list of things to consider before moving forward with the process. For example, have you considered how solar panels will affect your roof’s water runoff and gutters? Installed equipment can interfere with the flow of water and prevent proper drainage. Taking care of such matters preemptively can expedite the actual installation process of solar panels by eliminating issues before they have a chance to throw a wrench in the works.

Solar Panel Installation Process

For better or worse, solar panel installation is not a hasty spur-of-the-moment process. There are several steps, including assessment and permitting that can take weeks to finalize. Homeowners can help things go smoothly by doing research beforehand and making sure things are in good shape before involving a contractor. While a little time investment is a small price to pay, some patience may still be necessary in the event that the process extends over a couple of months or more. In general, the following steps are what to expect out of the solar panel installation process:

  1. Site assessment
  2. Regional permitting
  3. Installation
  4. Government inspection
  5. Activation

Homeowners who are informed and prepared will have everything they need to begin transitioning towards a solar-powered life. The sooner you act, the sooner you can reap the benefits of a healthier and more independent lifestyle.

Solar is a great way to positively impact your budget and the environment. If you are interested in more ways to make change for the greater good, visit Primamundi for resources to get you started.


Monica has a new lease on life through her sobriety. Her work as a carpenter has been eye-opening and life-changing, and she hopes that through RecoveringWorks she can inspire people to find work that fulfills their own passions.