When considering a solar panel installation, aesthetics and functionality are key aspects to ensure your investment not only performs well but also looks good. At Better Earth, we offer two distinct upgrades: Panel Skirting and Critter Guard, each serving unique purposes to enhance your solar system.
Panel Skirting: The Aesthetic Upgrade
What is Panel Skirting?
Panel skirting is an optional aesthetic enhancement for your solar panel system. It's designed to:
Improve Visual Appeal: By covering the visible gaps between the solar panels and the roof, panel skirting provides a sleek, unified look from the front view. This upgrade transforms the appearance of your roof, making the solar array look more integrated and less obtrusive.
Functionality: While primarily cosmetic, panel skirting also helps in maintaining a cleaner look, which can be particularly beneficial in residential areas where curb appeal matters.
Key Features:
Installation: Panel skirting is typically installed along the edges of the solar array, blending seamlessly with your roofline.
Material: Made from durable materials that match or complement your roof's color and style, ensuring longevity and aesthetic consistency.
Critter Guard: The Functional Upgrade
What is a Critter Guard?
A critter guard is a practical addition to your solar installation, focusing on protecting your system from wildlife:
Animal Prevention: Designed to keep out animals like pigeons, squirrels, and other critters that might be attracted to the shaded, sheltered space beneath solar panels.
Protective Barrier: It involves installing a mesh or solid barrier around the solar panels. This barrier prevents animals from nesting or causing damage, which could affect the performance and lifespan of your solar system.
Key Features:
Installation: The critter guard is fitted around the perimeter or underneath the solar panels, ensuring complete coverage without obstructing the panels' efficiency.
Material: Typically made from robust, weather-resistant materials like metal or heavy-duty mesh to withstand environmental conditions and animal attempts to penetrate.
Differences Between Panel Skirting and Critter Guard
Purpose: While panel skirting is purely for visual enhancement, the critter guard serves a protective, functional role.
Visibility: Panel skirting is visible from the front, enhancing the look of your solar setup. In contrast, a critter guard might be less noticeable, as it's often installed underneath or around the sides of the panels.
Integration into Your Solar Project
If you're interested in either of these upgrades, we encourage you to discuss your preferences with our team during the planning phase of your solar project. Here’s how they can be integrated:
Inclusion in Design: We can include panel skirting or critter guard in the initial design of your solar array, ensuring they are considered from the start for optimal installation.
Cost and Customization: Both options can be customized to fit your roof's specific architecture and your aesthetic preferences. Our team will provide a detailed quote that includes these upgrades.
Why Consider These Upgrades?
Aesthetic Value: Panel skirting adds to the visual appeal of your home, potentially increasing property value and neighborhood satisfaction.
System Longevity: A critter guard ensures your solar panels remain undamaged by wildlife, maintaining system efficiency and reducing maintenance needs.
By choosing to enhance your solar installation with panel skirting or a critter guard, you're not only investing in energy but also in the appearance and protection of your home. If you're ready to elevate your solar experience, please inform our team during your consultation so we can tailor your project accordingly.