(And Why Roof-Mounted Systems Are the Better Choice)
Homeowners often ask us whether it makes sense to install solar panels on the ground instead of the roof. While it may seem like a good idea at first glance, the truth is that ground-mounted solar arrays are rarely the best option in Southwest Florida.
Here’s why:
1. Hurricanes and Storm Resilience
In our region, hurricanes and tropical storms are a fact of life. Ground-mounted solar arrays are particularly vulnerable to windborne debris, storm surge, and flooding. We’ve seen numerous ground-mounted systems suffer damage or complete washouts during storms like Irma, Ian, Helene, and Milton.
Roof-mounted solar arrays, by contrast, are installed with high-wind design standards that meet or exceed Florida’s building codes. Positioned above floodwaters and elevated from ground-level debris, roof-mounted systems consistently prove more resilient.
Panels on your roof can even extend the lifespan of your roofing materials by shielding them from UV exposure, hail, and falling debris.
2. Roof Leaks: Separating Fact from Fiction
A common concern we hear is whether solar panels will cause roof leaks.
The answer: Not if the system is installed correctly.
Leaks can occur when inexperienced installers use the wrong materials or skip critical steps—especially on complex roof types like concrete tile. Improper flashing, subpar sealants, or incorrect mounting techniques can lead to water ingress over time.
However, when proper flashing, sealants, and manufacturer-approved mounting systems are used, the risk of leaks is no greater than with any other well-maintained roofing component. The installation process integrates solar mounts with the roof’s existing waterproofing system, maintaining its integrity.
With respect to storms, roof mounts will NOT tear out of your roof and cause it to leak. That is not the failure mode. In the event of a catastrophic wind burst, a panel could separate from the solar rail system, but the roof mounts are not going to be affected. Solar panels are more likely to protect your roof, and the mounts actually improve the connection of you roof to the structure.
The important takeaway:
Solar panels, installed properly, do not cause roof leaks—either during storms or everyday weather.
3. Higher Costs for Ground Mounts—Especially on Smaller Systems
Ground-mounted systems require significant additional infrastructure—concrete footings, steel substructures, trenching, and fencing—that drive up the cost.
For arrays under 20 kilowatts (kW), the total price can be 50% to 75% higher than a comparable roof-mounted system. Even for larger systems over 20kW, ground mounts typically cost 30% to 50% more. Trenching is a fixed cost that is not dependent on the size of the array, so smaller systems are very expensive.
With the declining costs and improved efficiency of roof-mounted solar, the added expense of a ground mount simply isn’t justifiable in most cases.
4. Longer Installation Timelines
Installing a ground-mounted solar array takes significantly longer.
A 15kW roof-mounted system can often be completed in one day.
A ground-mounted system of the same size may take 4 to 6 days—sometimes more—due to the need for excavation, concrete curing, trenching, and additional inspections.
This prolonged timeline adds to the project’s complexity and delays your energy production.
5. Code Requirements Add Cost and Complexity
Ground-mounted systems in Florida face more stringent code requirements:
- Large concrete footings are required to resist wind uplift.
- Steel substructures must meet specific design standards.
- Foundation inspections add steps to the workflow.
- Wiring beneath the panels must be protected, typically with fencing, adding further expense and maintenance considerations.
These added requirements not only increase costs but also extend project timelines and complicate the permitting and inspection process.
6. Aesthetic Considerations
Some homeowners prefer ground-mounted arrays because they worry about how panels will look on their roof.
But solar panels have become commonplace, and most homeowners find that panels installed neatly and strategically fade into the structure over time.
Panels can often be positioned on less visible roof slopes, and their symmetry and low profile help minimize visual impact. While aesthetics are subjective, many homeowners report that once installed, they simply stop noticing the panels.
7. When Ground Mounts Make Sense
There are cases where ground-mounted systems are necessary or beneficial. For off-grid homes or properties without sufficient roof space, ground mounts may be the right choice.
However, even in these situations, maximizing roof space first is typically recommended—even for non-south-facing roofs. For off-grid battery systems, having panels that face east and west can be more valuable than a single south-facing array, as they extend energy production into the morning and evening when battery levels need attention.
For larger systems, some of the fixed costs associated with ground mounts can be offset by scale. But even then, the decision requires careful evaluation.
Another consideration is flood level. Because solar panels need to be above the required based flood elevation plus 1 foot, the height of the array can be very high, especially in coastal areas. And the higher the ground rack gets, the stronger it needs to be to resist wind uplift. This can quickly snowball into a very expensive proposition.
The Bottom Line: Your Roof is the Best Option
For most homes in Southwest Florida, roof-mounted solar arrays are:
- More storm-resilient
- More cost-effective
- Faster to install
- Less complicated to permit and maintain
While ground-mounted systems can be built to withstand storms when necessary, the added costs, complexity, and exposure to risks make them a last resort for most on-grid homes.
If you’re considering solar, start with your roof. It’s the most practical, reliable, and proven option.
Interested in solar for your home?
We’d be happy to discuss your options and help you find the right system for your needs. Contact us today!
