Solar panel technology has picked up steam over the last few years, with many companies finding creative ways to make their products not only sufficient but attractive. Now, customers are given many options to add these panels to almost any part of their home, garage, or barn, but what about the patio?
Adding solar panels to your patio is a great way to save energy and money and give your space an updated and more modern look. Tons of companies provide solar panels for patios, whether you want to add them to the current roof you have in place or you want them to stand alone.
For more information on how to add solar panels to your home, keep reading this article, where I will discuss the benefits of patio solar panels and what differences they will make for you.
Can Solar Panels Go On A Patio Roof?
You can put solar panels on your patio, and a lot of companies actually encourage this. Solar panels are an excellent addition to all homes and can be placed just about anywhere that has a roof or that can support a roof. These solar cover panels are a great way to cover furniture, porches, and landscape.
Not only have companies started encouraging this, but some home building companies are already planning them into their designs should homeowners choose to power their homes…at least, in part…using solar energy.
Why Should I Put Solar Panels On My Patio?
Typically, you would want to use the awning or roof of your patio for solar panels because it’s extra space that can be utilized for solar energy. Most patios are off the backdoor and get plenty of sunlight during daylight hours, perfect for solar panels.
There are a bunch of other great reasons to add solar panels to your patio space. If you are in the process of deciding whether or not this is the best option for you, there are a few different things to think about that many people will overlook that can have a huge impact on what choice you should make. Here are a few things to consider:
- Saves on Land/Roof Space
- Doesn’t Require an Existing Roof
- Provides an Efficient Cover to Outdoor Spaces
- Adds Extra Space When Your Roof Isn’t Enough
- Your Home Roof Will Not Support Solar Panels as is
Saves on Land/Roof Space
Since roof space is limited…especially sections of roof that receive prime sunlight during peak hours…some home-owners either choose to use fewer solar panels. This means that they either still have to rely on the city power grid, lower the energy consumption, or find other means for powering their homes.
Another option…but really not a great one for most home owners…is ground mounting solar panels. But doing this takes up valuable real estate, something many of us don’t want to do when many newer communities have such tiny yards to begin with. It also means adding an obstacle for family and pets when they want to be in the back yard.
All of that to say, using patio, gazebo, or awning solar covers gives you options to utilize solar panels when you otherwise wouldn’t have the space.
Doesn’t Require an Existing Roof
In the past, you could only use solar panels on pre-existing structures or by placing them in your yard. Now, solar covers have the ability to be stand-alone products that cover outdoor spaces without the need for an established roof.
These panels are versatile and can be used in a bunch of ways to create just about any cover shape or design you want to fit over your outdoor area perfectly.
Provides an Efficient Cover to Outdoor Spaces
Patio covers are just as useful as patio roofs. These products are durable, weather-resistant, and provide shade for areas that are fully exposed to the sun.
This is perfect for those who like to spend time outdoors or hosting a company, giving you a great outdoor location to BBQ or relax without the bright sunlight glaring off your screen or making your company hot and uncomfortable.
Adds Extra Space When Your Roof Isn’t Enough
A lot of people aren’t aware that they need to have a specific amount of solar panels on their homes in order for them to be sufficient. Sometimes, your existing roof doesn’t provide enough space for the number of panels you require. In this case, adding a patio cover will offer that extra space you need.
Your Home Roof Will Not Support Solar Panels as is
If you are thinking about adding solar panels to your home, but your roof isn’t in the best shape or isn’t as structurally sound as it needs to be to hold solar panels, utilizing a solar cover is a great way to get around having to replace your entire roof and then adding a solar roof on top.
What Types Of Patio Panels Are Available?
No matter what your style is, how much space you have available, or what your budget limits are, there are patio cover panels for you. As patio solar panels become more popular, the industry is finding inventive ways to make these products fit all different types of homes.
Here are a few solar panel patio options you may want to check out:
- Bi-Facial Solar Panels
- Thin Film Solar Cells
- Flexible Solar Panels
Bi-Facial Solar Panels
Bi-facial solar panels utilize sunlight that bounces off of the ground and is projected upwards. These double-glass panels are much more attractive when looking up from underneath, and the wires and cords are typically hidden well within the frame.
Thin Film Solar Cells
Thin-film (also called amorphous) solar panels are the perfect option for anyone looking to get the benefits of a solar cover over their patios while on a pretty tight budget. These panels are much thinner than the original option, providing just enough energy to handle your outdoor entertainment.
Flexible Solar Panels
Adding solar panels to your patio doesn’t have to be boring…you can create great designs with the flexible solar panel options on the market today. These are typically used to give a slope-style look to your back porch, making it look fabulous and energy-efficient.
How Do You Get Solar Energy Panels On Your Patio?
You can always opt to have a professional come and install your panels for you. There are many great companies that have these options on hand with staff that has tons of experience, ensuring the job is done right the first time, and nothing gets destroyed or damaged in the process.
You can also choose to add these panels to your patio yourself by purchasing a DIY kit. You can pick these kits up from specialty stores, online, or at various home improvement stores (typically requiring ordering in or smaller options such as portable panels.)
No matter how you choose to install a solar patio cover above your porch, you will not be disappointed.
Final Thoughts
Adding solar paneling to any part of your house is going to provide you with a whole slew of benefits. Adding solar paneling to your porch is going to increase those benefits adding shade, protection, and money-saving benefits to your home.