Path-Q Solar

What measurements would help determine whether my roof is worth a detailed solar assessment?

Answer

Useful preliminary measurements include each roof plane's approximate length, width, orientation, pitch, obstructions, shade exposure, and condition, along with the available space around electrical equipment. These measurements can screen the site, but they cannot confirm structural capacity, attachment suitability, or final production.

Key points

  • Measure usable roof areas rather than total roof area, allowing for edges, ridges, valleys, vents, skylights, chimneys, and access paths.
  • Record roof orientation and approximate pitch for each plane.
  • Note shade by time of day and season from trees, buildings, terrain, and roof features.
  • Record roof material, age, visible damage, leaks, and prior repairs.
  • Photograph the roof and electrical service from safe locations and note future changes that may affect the layout.

What it depends on

  • Accuracy of measurements and photos
  • Roof condition and construction
  • Shading and obstruction patterns
  • Electrical service and planned future loads

Risks and trade-offs

  • A roof can have enough measured area but still be unsuitable because of structural or attachment limitations.
  • Ground-level measurements and online imagery may miss roof pitch, damage, or seasonal shading.
  • Climbing onto a roof to measure it creates fall and property-damage risks.

Information you may need

  • Roof dimensions, orientation, pitch, material, age, and condition
  • Locations of obstructions and electrical equipment
  • Shade observations or imagery across relevant times
  • Recent electricity use and future load plans

Your next step

What to do next

Prepare a sketch and safe photographs of the roof planes, then ask an installer to perform a preliminary screen before paying for detailed engineering.

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