Roof or Ground Mounted Solar? Best Pick for Your Home 2023
Reading Time: 12 minutes 
Solar power is your best way to become energy independent, full stop. As you consider your solar project, one of the crucial decisions you’ll face is choosing the right solar mount for your home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll detail the pros and cons of Ground Mount vs Roof Mount systems. By exploring the advantages, considerations, and performance factors of each option, you’ll gain the knowledge build a sustainable future into your home.
Ground Mounted Solar Panels: Stability, Versatility and Flexibility
Ground-mounted solar panels have gained significant popularity in recent years, thanks to their stability and flexibility in harnessing solar energy. These systems offer a versatile solution that allows for optimal placement and alignment, ensuring maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day. With ground mounts, you have the freedom to strategically position your panels to achieve the ideal tilt angle and direction, optimizing energy production.
Additionally, the installation process is simplified, as ground mounts can be securely anchored using steel pipes or concrete footings. This flexibility, combined with the stability and wind loading offered by ground mounts, makes them attractive for homeowners seeking to maximize their solar potential.
Roof Mounted Solar Panels: Small Footprint, Lower Cost
Roof-mounted solar panels provide an excellent opportunity to utilize the available roof space for sustainable power generation. By installing solar panels directly on your roof, you can make efficient use of the existing structure while seamlessly integrating renewable energy into your home’s design. One significant advantage of roof mounts is their ability to generate electricity without requiring additional land or mounting structures.
This makes them a viable option for homeowners with limited ground space. However, it’s important to consider factors such as roof condition, structural suitability, and potential shading or obstruction from surrounding objects. With proper planning and installation, roof-mounted solar panels can be an effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for residential systems.
Other Key Considerations
Choosing the best solar mount for your home involves considering various factors that impact installation, performance, and aesthetics. To make an informed decision, take the following aspects into account:
Available Space and Land: Assess the amount of available land or roof space to determine which type of solar mount is more suitable for your needs. Ground mounts require an appropriate area, while roof mounts make use of existing roof space. If a septic system is part of your path to self reliance, consider installing your panels over that dedicated land.
Roof Condition and Structural Suitability: Evaluate the condition and structural integrity of your roof to ensure it can support the weight of solar panels. If your roof is old or needs repairs, it might be necessary to address these issues before considering a roof-mounted system.
Soil Types and Ground Conditions: For ground-mounted solar panels, the soil type and ground conditions play a crucial role. Different soil types may require specific foundation designs or mounting systems. Assess the soil conditions to determine the suitability of ground mounts.
Aesthetics and Visual Impact: Consider the look of solar panels on your property. Roof-mounted panels may blend seamlessly with the roofline, while ground-mounted panels offer a visible statement. Take into account your preferences and any homeowner association regulations that may apply.
Where do You Get the Most Sunlight: Rooftop Panels are always hemmed in by the roof edges, giving you fewer square feet for a larger system. If you’re looking for a high number of panels for your solar panel installation, consider placing your solar modules in an area where you have extra space. There is even a handy configuration tool to help you find the ideal location for free-standing solar panels.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation and maintenance aspects differ for ground and roof mount systems. Understanding these differences will help you choose the option that best fits your requirements.
Installation Process
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Installing ground-mounted solar panels typically involves a straightforward process. Steel pipes and concrete footings or ground screws are the main components used to securely anchor the system to the ground, ensuring stability. Take a look at the Ironridge ground mount system to see how the solar racking and concrete footings work together.
Multi-pole mounts may also use a metal frame to connect vertical columns and protect against high wind speed. The number of concrete foundations will vary in proportion to attributes like array size, a longer e-w span, your specific project, expected wind speeds, the number of solar panels, foundation design and the style of solar racking you choose.
The installation may require heavy machinery for digging and setting up the foundation, especially for larger systems. However, the availability of open space allows for easier access during installation. The heftier bill of materials, higher cost and are the principal cons of ground-mounted solar kit.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Installing solar panels on the roof involves attaching them to the existing structure. Using your existing structure substantially reduces the cost and footprint of you solar power system, one of the key benefits over a ground-mount solar power system. This process requires expertise to ensure proper placement and secure mounting.
It’s crucial to hire experienced solar installers who can assess the roof’s condition, identify the best mounting points, and take necessary measures to prevent any damage to the roof. In some cases, additional structural reinforcements may be required.
Maintenance
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Maintaining a standard ground mount generally involves minimal effort. The open space around the panels allows for easy access, making cleaning and inspection relatively simple. Regular cleaning to remove dust, debris, or any shading caused by nearby vegetation is essential to maintain optimal performance.
Additionally, inspecting the steel pipes or concrete footings for stability and any signs of wear is recommended. For best results and to maintain a fixed position for your solar cells, consider large rocks or wooden fences to keep the area off limits at low cost.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Maintaining roof-mounted solar panels may require more caution and attention. Cleaning the panels can be slightly challenging due to their elevated position, especially if your roof has a steep slope.
Hiring professional solar panel cleaners can ensure thorough cleaning without any risk to your safety or the integrity of the panels. It’s also important to regularly inspect the roof for any signs of damage or leaks to prevent potential issues.
By understanding the differences in the installation process and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances and preferences.
Energy Production and Efficiency
When it comes to energy production and efficiency, both ground and roof mount systems have their advantages and considerations. Let’s delve into the factors that affect the performance of each option:
Sunlight Exposure
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mounted solar systems are a great option for flexibility in positioning the panels to optimize sunlight exposure. By adjusting the tilt angle and direction, you can maximize the amount of sunlight received throughout the day. This factor makes ground mounts particularly advantageous in regions with changing sun angles or if shading from nearby structures or trees is a concern.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems rely on the orientation and slope of the roof to capture sunlight. The performance of roof mounts is influenced by the roof’s angle, orientation (north, south, east, or west), and potential shading from surrounding buildings or vegetation.
It’s crucial to assess the roof’s suitability for solar energy production and ensure that any potential obstructions are minimized to optimize energy output.
Geographic Location
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mounted arrays are not as restricted by geographic location compared to roof-mounted panels. With open space, ground mounts can be installed in areas that receive ample sunlight, regardless of the orientation or slope of the roof.
This flexibility allows for better energy production potential in regions with less favorable roof orientations. Solar design of utility scale installations almost always uses ground mounts with pole-mounted systems and mechanical tubing for stability.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels:
The energy production of roof-mounted systems is influenced by the geographic location and the orientation of the roof. Ideally, roofs facing south and with a tilt angle that matches the latitude of the location tend to maximize energy production. In regions with abundant sunlight and favorable roof orientations, roof mounts can efficiently generate solar energy.
It’s important to consider the specific characteristics of your location and consult with solar professionals to assess the expected energy production and efficiency of both ground and roof-mounted systems.
Cost Considerations
Cost is a significant factor when it comes to choosing the best solar mount for your home. Let’s explore the financial implications of ground-mount and roof-mount systems:
Installation Costs
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mount systems generally require additional materials, such as steel pipes or concrete footings, to anchor the panels securely. The installation process may involve heavy machinery for digging and setting up the foundation. These factors can contribute to slightly higher installation costs compared to roof-mounted systems.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems benefit from the existing structure, eliminating the need for additional materials or foundation work. The installation process tends to be less complex, resulting in relatively lower installation costs compared to ground-mounted systems.
Long-Term Savings and Return on Investment
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mount solar panels offer the advantage of easy accessibility for maintenance and cleaning. This can result in potential cost savings over time, as regular maintenance can ensure optimal energy production. Additionally, ground mounts may allow for the use of solar trackers, which can increase energy output.
Solar mounts that include a tracking system allow you to adjust pole mount systems as the seasons change. However, it’s important to consider the additional cost of these solar tracking systems when assessing the long-term savings and return on investment.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems can provide cost savings by utilizing the existing roof space without the need for additional land or mounting structures. The energy generated can offset electricity costs, resulting in long-term savings on utility bills.
Additionally, many regions offer incentives such as tax credits or feed-in tariffs that can further enhance the financial benefits of installing rooftop solar panels, even for smaller arrays.
Financing Options and Incentives
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Financing options, such as solar loans or lease agreements, are available for both ground and roof-mounted systems. However, ground-mounted systems may have more flexibility in terms of land ownership and the potential to negotiate lease agreements for larger-scale solar projects. Additionally, depending on your location, there may be specific incentives or grants available for ground-mounted systems, particularly in utility-scale installations.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems are well-suited for residential installations, and many financing options are readily available. Solar loans, lease agreements, and power purchase agreements (PPAs) can help make the upfront costs more manageable. Furthermore, there are often specific incentives, such as government rebates or net metering programs, aimed at promoting the adoption of rooftop solar panels.
By assessing the installation costs, long-term savings, return on investment, and available financing options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of solar energy is a key driving force behind its adoption. Let’s explore how both ground-mounted and roof-mounted systems contribute to a sustainable future:
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mounted systems generate clean, renewable energy by harnessing the power of the sun. By transitioning to solar energy, you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions and your carbon footprint.
Ground mounts, especially in utility-scale installations, have the potential to make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions and promoting a more sustainable energy landscape.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems also contribute to reducing carbon emissions by generating clean energy. By utilizing the available roof space, you can directly offset the electricity consumption of your home or business with renewable energy. This transition helps to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decreases the environmental impact associated with traditional energy sources.
Contribution to Renewable Energy Generation
Both ground-mounted and roof-mounted systems play a crucial role in diversifying the energy mix and increasing the share of renewable energy in the overall power generation. By embracing solar energy, you actively participate in the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Ground or Roof? Drawing a Conclusion
In the Ground Mount vs Roof Mount debate, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice between these two options depends on several factors, including available space, roof condition, sunlight exposure, cost considerations, and environmental impact.
Ground-mounted systems offer stability, flexibility, and potentially higher energy production, while roof-mounted systems make efficient use of existing roof space and provide long-term financial benefits.
To determine the best solar mount for your home, consider your specific circumstances, consult with solar professionals, and evaluate the advantages and considerations outlined in this guide. By making an informed decision, you can embark on a solar journey that aligns with your goals for sustainability, energy efficiency, and financial savings.
Remember, harnessing solar power is a significant step toward a greener future, and whether you choose a ground-mounted or roof-mounted system, you’re making a positive impact on the environment and contributing to a more sustainable world.
Choosing the Best Option for Your Home in 2023 FAQ
What are ground-mounted solar panels?
Ground-mounted solar panels are solar arrays installed directly on the ground, using steel pipes or concrete footings to secure them in place. They are an alternative to roof-mounted solar panels, providing flexibility in positioning and potential for larger systems. Your solar project is also more flexible on the ground, and some homeowners choose to make a solar carport under the right conditions.
Are ground-mounted systems more expensive than roof-mounted systems?
Ground-mounted systems may have slightly higher installation costs due to additional materials and potential heavy machinery requirements. You may also have to dig a trench for your cables, whereas running wires thru an attic is quite simple. However, long-term savings and return on investment can vary depending on factors such as energy production, maintenance, and available incentives.
What are the advantages of roof mounted systems?
Roof-mounted solar panels make efficient use of existing roof space, eliminating the need for additional land or mounting structures. They are typically easier to integrate into residential buildings and can benefit from incentives specific to rooftop installations.
Can ground-mounted solar panels be installed on any type of soil?
Ground-mounted systems can be installed on various soil types, but it’s important to consider soil conditions and potential issues such as erosion or stability. Consulting with solar professionals can help determine the suitability of the land for ground mounts.
Do ground-mounted solar panels require more maintenance?
Ground-mounted systems generally require minimal maintenance, as they are easily accessible for cleaning and inspection. Regular cleaning to remove debris and vegetation shading is recommended, along with periodic checks on the stability of the anchoring system. Ground mount systems are often easier to access and clean than a rooftop system.
Can I install ground-mounted solar panels in urban areas?
Ground-mounted systems can be installed in urban areas that have sufficient available land. However, it’s important to check local regulations and permits for any zoning restrictions or specific requirements related to ground-mounted solar installations. If you have access to a large, flat roof, you may choose to weigh down the solar panels in a “ballast system.” This style of solar array uses the weight of concrete and steel pipe to hold the system in place instead of penetrating the roof, and is very similar to a ground-mounted system.
Are roof-mounted solar panels affected by the slope and orientation of the roof?
Yes, the slope and orientation of the roof can impact the energy production of roof-mounted solar panels. Roofs facing south and with a tilt angle that matches the latitude tend to maximize energy output. Shading from nearby structures or vegetation should also be minimized for optimal performance.
Can I install both ground-mounted and roof-mounted solar panels on my property?
Yes, it’s possible to have a combination of each solar panel system on your property. This allows you to maximize energy production by utilizing different areas and orientations, depending on available space and sunlight exposure.
Which option is better for commercial-scale solar projects?
A solar ground mount is often preferred for commercial-scale solar projects due to the availability of larger land areas. They allow for more significant system sizes, potential use of solar trackers, and flexibility in design and solar installation.
While you’re doing your own research, consider visiting some other excellent sources of solar information, tax credits and energy questions in general.
Andrew Blikken
I embrace self-reliance as a personal creed. My professional guides help you explore, design and reap the rewards of self-reliant living. Pursue your path to independence at AndrewBlikken.com.
