Solar panels make a lot of sense. 

They can save you thousands of dollars a month in energy costs, they might make you eligible to earn a tax credit, and they help protect the environment. 

And that's just a few of the benefits of having solar energy panels installed on your house. 

With such an upside, it's no not a surprise that so many Americans are installing solar energy panels on their homes. But solar energy is still a relatively new technology, which means many might think installation is complicated and beyond their reach. 

It's not. 

If you are considering installing solar panels on your house, you're probably wondering what you need to do to prepare your home. Here's a look at five (pretty easy) things to do before you begin the process:

1) Evaluate the structure

Not all roofs are created equal. And not all roofs can accommodate solar panels. Before you get serious about installing solar panels on your home, take a serious look at your roof's ability to withstand the added weight and stress. The best way to do this is to have your roof inspected by a professional. 

2) Repair your roof

If your roof inspection reveals damaged shingles, weak boards and structural problems, installing solar energy panels is probably going to do more harm than good. Before you more forward, make sure you repair any problems with your roof. 

3) Take a look at the trees

Nothing can put a damper on the energy-saving potential of solar panels like a tree branch. Make sure that trees or branches that hang over the area of your roof on which the panels will be places aren't blocked by foliage.

4) Measure and measure again

When it comes to installing solar panels on your home, one of the most important factors is the area you have to work with. Have a roofing contractor measure the area of your roof--from the eaves all the way to the top. The area you have to work with will determine the system you need to install as well as the amount of energy you'll be able to harvest from the sun. If you don't have enough space, solar panels might not be a worthwhile investment. 

5) Talk to an expert

Installing solar energy panels involves art and science (mostly science). It's not something most people can do on their own. Once you have completed steps 1 through 4, you're probably going to want to talk to an expert.  Someone with extensive knowledge of solar panel installation will be able to take the information you've gathered, do some fact-gathering of their own and provide you with solid advice about how to proceed.

Connect with an expert today

If you are considering installing solar energy panels on your home, connect with First Quality Roofing today. You'll get assistance with everything from the structure to repairs that need to measurements and tree removal. 

Solar panels make a lot of sense--but only if you properly prepare for their installation.