With energy costs skyrocketing and the urgent need to slash CO2 emissions to protect our precious planet, an increasing number of homes and businesses in the UK are hopping on the solar panel bandwagon. Not only does solar energy reduce our carbon footprint, but it also saves a bundle on electricity bills. Talk about a win-win! On top of that, a top-notch electrical energy storage system can slash your reliance on the grid by a whopping 85%.
Now, modern solar panels are rigid, but they’re not invincible. They face risks that could lower their output. Twigs, leaves, and dirt accumulating and scratching the panels reduce their energy production. Then there’s hail, the notorious roof-wrecker, which, although solar panels are designed to withstand, can still wreak havoc during a severe storm.
But the biggest threat of all? Our feathered friends. Yes, you heard that right. Birds, particularly pigeons and jackdaws, view the space beneath your solar panels as prime real estate for nesting. Once they’ve made themselves home, they can damage your panels in multiple ways. Those pesky claws can scratch the surface, resulting in less power.
Oh, and let’s talk about bird droppings—highly acidic little bombs that corrode wiring and panel surfaces, causing irreversible damage. And that’s not all! Those unsightly droppings can intercept precious sunlight and slow energy collection. Worse yet, they attract pests and bacteria, turning your rooftop into a potential breeding ground for trouble. Plus, they can erode shingles and tiles, putting your roof at risk.
Think that’s all? Think again. Debris from nests and droppings can clog up your gutters, leading to blocked drainpipes and many headaches. But it doesn’t end there. Once birds have set up camp, other critters like squirrels and mice can’t resist joining the party. These nimble climbers have a knack for gnawing on wires, causing even more damage. And as if that weren’t enough, animals beneath your panels tend to attract insects, creating an unwelcome swarm around your home.
Here’s where things get downright dangerous: bird nests and debris are highly flammable, and with wiring nearby, the risk of a fire breaking out becomes too real. Imagine the havoc and danger that could unleash on your home and loved ones.
And let’s not forget the noise! Pigeons are hardly known for their peaceful cooing—they’ll happily serenade you at the crack of dawn, scratching away and making sure you’re up and awake. And if that weren’t enough, their leftover meals could attract raucous seagulls, known for their ear-splitting screeches at the most unholy hours.
But fear not! Installing a solar panel bird proof sturdy mesh around the solar panel frames, securely fastened to both the roof and panels using specially designed clips, stops the birds in their tracks. This ingenious setup creates an impenetrable physical barrier, blocking even the tiniest critters from sneaking in a while allowing essential airflow beneath the panels.
Weather-resistant mesh is made from top-notch metal or plastic, ensuring those determined birds won’t be tearing through it anytime soon.
Bird anti-roosting spikes are another solution. Made from stainless steel and available in various lengths, these spikes make it impossible for birds to land on your precious solar array.
You may be wondering about the cost. Well, it depends on a few factors. The material used for bird-proofing is one consideration. Sometimes, the job may require scaffolding, which can add to the overall cost. The size and number of your panels also come into play. But worry not; we offer competitive rates that won’t break the bank. It’s a small investment compared to the potential repairs and headaches you’d face without bird-proofing.