You may have come across the term ‘bird proofing’ when researching solar panels and wondered what on earth it has to do with your solar system. Well, quite a lot, in fact.
Solar panels create a warm, sheltered space between the panels and your roof, which is in turn a pretty appealing place for pigeons and other birds to nest. But whether your solar panels actually need bird proofing will depend on a few things, including your roof design, the type of solar installation you’re having and how common birds are in your local area.
So, if you’re looking into solar and want to know whether bird proofing is something you should think about, here’s everything you need to know.
What is Bird Proofing?
Bird proofing is a protective barrier fitted around the edges of your solar panels to prevent birds from getting underneath them.
It’s typically made from strong and weather-resistant mesh, which is securely fixed around the panels without damaging your roof or the solar system. The mesh allows air to flow underneath the panels but closes off the gaps that birds might otherwise use to get in.
From the ground, you’d probably barely even notice it’s there. It’s cleverly designed to sit discreetly and neatly around the perimeter of your solar panels rather than changing the look of your installation. The main purpose of bird proofing is to keep birds out from underneath your solar panels and prevent them from turning the area into a nesting spot.
Why do Birds Nest Under Solar Panels?
For pigeons in particular, the space underneath solar panels can look like an ideal cosy home. It’s sheltered from the wind and the rain and is relatively undisturbed. This can quickly turn into a nesting area for the birds.
The problem is that birds don’t typically tidy up after themselves. A buildup of feathers, nesting materials, droppings and other debris can quickly gather underneath your panels. And because the area is difficult to access once the panels are installed, cleaning it out can be particularly challenging.
If you’re thinking of going solar for your home, book your free solar consultation with Evergen. We’ll complete a full assessment of your roof and get an understanding of your energy requirements before we design your bespoke system.
What are the Benefits of Bird Proofing?
Bird proofing helps you avoid some of the common problems associated with nesting birds. For example:
- Bird proofing helps to keep your panels clean. Without bird proofing, bird droppings and nesting debris can easily build up underneath panels.
- There’ll be fewer unwanted visitors. Bird proofing is a physical barrier that makes it much harder for birds to nest beneath your panels.
- Bird proofing also helps to protect your solar system, as nesting materials and birds can potentially cause damage to cables and wiring.
- It can protect your system performance, as keeping the area underneath your panels clear can help avoid issues caused by excessive debris and damage.
Why Should You Consider Bird Proofing?
Not every solar installation may need bird proofing. If your roof design leaves little or no accessible space underneath the panels, it may not be necessary. However, if you regularly see pigeons around your property, or your roof has plenty of space underneath the panels for birds to get into, it could be a sensible addition.
The important thing is to consider it before the birds move in! Once birds have started nesting underneath your panels, you could be left dealing with droppings, you could be dealing with droppings, debris and potential damage that could have been avoided with a simple preventative measure.
What Happens if you Don’t Choose Bird Proofing?
Without bird proofing, birds may be able to get under your panels and make themselves at home. As we’ve already mentioned above, this can lead to a build-up of debris, but it can also lead to some pretty expensive repairs if there’s any damage to cables and wiring.
Is Bird Proofing for Solar Worth it?
In our opinion, absolutely. The good news is that bird proofing is included for free with our solar installations, so you don’t need to worry about adding another unexpected cost to your solar project.
It’s a relatively simple way of helping protect your new solar investment from some very persistent feathered neighbours.
Thinking about getting solar panels? Get in touch to book your free solar survey.
