As homeowners become more environmentally conscious, renewable energy sources are becoming more popular. Solar energy is one of the easiest resources for most homeowners to take advantage of, thanks to the solar panel companies that install these systems in private homes . Of course, most homeowners have questions that need to be answered before they are ready to go solar. Aside from cost and maintenance issues , many people want to know if rooftop solar panels will spoil the look of their homes.
It is true that some solar panels require heavy vessels to carry the weight. It is also true that all systems are at least somewhat visible from the sidewalk. But that doesn't mean all solar panels look the same. To help you create the style you want, we've looked at the most popular types of solar panels and ranked them according to their visual appearance.
The rating of solar panels is visually appealing
The best solar panels for you will depend on your energy needs, budget and desired look. Many homeowners desire sleek, modern designs that are less visible from ground level, so we've compiled our list of boards below.
Figure 3: Polyurethane panels
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Polyurethane panels are probably what you think of when you think of residential solar panels. They are the most expensive and popular choice among homeowners. Unfortunately, they are less effective and more noticeable than other types. These solar panels are blue, and the shade of blue is not exactly the same from cell to cell because they are made up of several pieces of molten silicon. This makes them more visible on neutral colored surfaces.
Figure 2: Thin planks
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Thin-film solar panels are newer and still relatively uncommon in residential solar systems, but they are gaining popularity due to their lighter weight and lower installation costs. Thin film solar panels are manufactured as sheets, so they can be adapted to the shape and size of your roof. There are different types of thin films depending on the chemicals used in production, but all of them have a very low profile. It tends to look like a black or blue solid. These panels work best for smaller housing projects such as boats, garages or sheds.
Figure 1: Monocrystalline panels
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Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient and attractive option for residential systems . They often have efficiency ratios of 20% or higher, meaning you need fewer panels (and therefore less roof space) to run your home. Monocrystalline panels are manufactured in the same way as polycrystalline panels, but the silicon is purer and cut from a single source. This improves performance and gives the panels a more uniform and usually solid black appearance. Monocrystalline panels are very durable with a warranty of up to 25 years.
An attractive alternative: a sunroof
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The above types of solar panels are compatible with conventional roofs , but some types of solar technology can be integrated directly into roofing material. Solar panels replace rather than sit on top of traditional leather and wood panels. It is much lighter than solar panels and more durable than traditional asphalt paving. Sunroofs can be a good option if you want to replace the roof and get some sunlight at the same time. Unfortunately, it is not yet available, and only a few solar companies have it.
The disadvantages of solar panels are their visual appeal
Prioritizing aesthetics may mean sacrificing some features. Below are three common types of solar panel systems and their disadvantages.
Polyurethane panels
Polyurethane panels typically protrude a few inches from the ceiling into the mounting system. This helps prevent roof damage and increase cooling, but also increases the visibility of the panels. Although the panels can be installed on a dark colored wallpaper, dark colors absorb heat and can make your home less energy efficient. For this reason, the background is usually a light or reflective color to make the panels stand out even more.
Since polycrystalline panels are about 13% to 16% more efficient than monocrystalline panels, you'll probably need more of them to produce enough electricity. In general, polycrystalline solar panels are the most obvious and visually appealing option.
Thin film panels
Thin-film solar cells are less efficient and less durable than other options. They are more fragile, fade faster, and their warranties are likely to be shorter. Although usually inexpensive to install, the price can vary greatly depending on the chemical composition. Thin membrane panels can have an efficiency of 6% to 8%, which means you will need more roofing to run your garage or shed.
Monocrystalline panels
The monocrystalline panel manufacturing process generates large amounts of silicon waste, so it costs more than polycrystalline panels. They require mounting and support (like polycrystalline panels) but are less visible due to their smooth black appearance. In general, homeowners tend to find monocrystalline panels more visually appealing.
solar roof
Because solar panels and roofs are built directly on the roof, they take longer to cool than rack-mounted panels and are less efficient. They are also very expensive and hard to find because they are only available from a few manufacturers. Some installers have waiting lists for homeowners who want solar roofs. Roofs and skylights usually work best in new construction or replacing an entire roof, while panels can be installed over almost any existing roof.
What should I consider when choosing a solar panel style?
You can choose from a variety of solar panel styles to match your style and home look. Note that different companies may not offer all options, so do your research before choosing an installer.
Dashboard support
Solar panel support will be visible between the individual cells. The stand is usually available in white, silver or black. Although white and silver are more visible and give your solar panel a lattice appearance, they also allow for greater energy efficiency. The black frame, especially with the black bezels and monocrystalline cells, creates the appearance of solid blacks, but you'll lose performance.
painting color
Polycrystalline panels are sometimes blue or green, while monocrystalline panels are solid black. Thin film solar materials can be black or blue depending on the type. Some companies have started making polycrystalline slabs in other colors , such as terracotta, red tiles and even pink diamonds, but these are hard to find.
plate frame
The frame or metal frame around each panel is usually silver or black. Black is less noticeable, especially when combined with monocrystalline panels, but it is usually more expensive. It also absorbs more heat, keeping the house warm in the summer, and prevents cells from freezing so they can work as efficiently as possible.
painting place
Your solar panel should be on the south side of your roof for maximum output. If your house faces north, the slabs will be further from the street. If not, you have to decide whether you want to install the panels in a visible area or accept a significant loss in energy production. Panels facing east or west will produce approximately 30% less energy, while panels facing north require special fasteners to make them more visible.
If you can't find solar panels that match your desired aesthetic, you can opt for ground-mounted panels. They sit on posts driven into the ground and are not limited by the size, shape or orientation of the roof. This assumes you have space on your property for such an installation, but if you do, you can make your solar panel system less visible by mounting it outside your home.
Our recommendations
Solar panels don't have to be the bane of your home. Although polycrystalline panels are still popular, a more modern and elegant style can be achieved by using thin or monocrystalline panels. We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three solar installation companies before contracting with one. If you have any questions about the appearance of the panels, be sure to mention them when you get your quote. A good solar panel company will work with you to create an installation that will meet your power needs without sacrificing curb appeal.
