Are you tired of birds making your solar panels dirty and less efficient? If yes, solar panel netting can be a savior. It is a cost-effective and easy bird proofing solution to prevent birds from intruding on your panels. But solar panel netting installation cost is a fact. Will PV panel netting affect your solar panel warranty?
Well, we have all those answers. In this article, you will get all the information about the cost of solar panel installation. Read the full article if you want long-lasting bird blocking for your solar panel. This article is all about the net cost of solar panels netting costs. We will also discuss the benefits of netting, factors influencing the costs, and other alternatives to solar panel netting. Lastly, we will provide effective tips on lessening the cost of installing the netting.
What is Solar Panel Netting?
Solar panel netting is one of the most effective bird-proofing methods. This heavy-duty netting helps keep birds away from the solar panel. Solar panel netting is a barrier between the birds and the solar panel. It ensures that birds cannot land, perch, or nest on the solar panel. Bird netting is stronger than other bird-proofing systems. You can use them to block the larger native birds.
Solar panel netting comes in sheets of different sizes. You can either install it yourself or get professional help. It is helpful for both residential and commercial solar panel protection. However, solar panel netting is less sustainable as most of it is biodegradable. So, you will need to maintain and reinstall it regularly.
What Are the Benefits of Using Bird Netting for Solar Panel Protection?
Bird netting can assist and safe photovoltaic panel in many ways from different type of disruptive factors. Let’s see what essential factors may happen for solar panel using bird netting.
1. Prevents Dirt and Corrosion in Solar Panels
Bird droppings and other dirt can make the solar panel dirty and blotchy. Their landing on the panel can scratch and damage it. Also, the accumulation of their acidic droppings can corrode the surface of solar panels. This can lead to massive damage, hampering their functionality. Bird netting keeps birds away and saves your panel from dirt or droppings. It also cuts the hassle of frequently cleaning the PV panels.
2. Maximizing The Solar Panel’s Efficiency
According to a study, bird droppings can decrease solar panel efficiency by up to 23.8%. If droppings accumulate on the solar panels, they can obstruct them from getting sunlight, reducing their total energy intake. Thus, it makes it more difficult to accumulate the reserves to power your home. Solar panel netting helps prevent accumulation, ensuring that they operate at their maximum efficiency.
3. Saving Time and Cost
Dealing with bird concerns can be especially costly and time-consuming. Birds can cause extensive damage to the panel surface, leading to massive repair and replacement costs. Bird netting can help prevent damage and save money on repairs.
4. Enhancing Safety
Some birds peck and chew on solar panel wiring, which can create electrical problems and potential fire hazards. They can also cause airflow blockage and panel warming. Solar panel netting reduces this risk, improving the overall safety of your solar system.
5. Protecting Your Health
Bird droppings can contain viruses that are harmful to humans and pets. Their early morning chirping can be annoying for silence-loving people. Netting contributes to a healthy environment around your area.
Solar Panel Netting Installation Cost in The USA
Installing solar netting generally ranges between $300 and $1,200. It can vary slightly depending on the type of netting you are using, the installation methods, and the region in which you live. However, there is not much difference among the variations.
The bird-proofing solar panel netting installation cost in the USA varies based on some crucial factors such as the shape of the solar array, labor cost, material cost and type of netting. In most cases, a home owner pays between $300 and $1,200 for netting installation.
For mesh netting material installation costs range from $1 to $3 per square foot. Depending on the location it may go up to $2 to $5 per square foot. Therefore, the total mesh netting installation costs can range around $3 and $8 per square foot. However, this price can slightly up and down based on the location, material cost, labor cost, and maintenance cost as well.
Alternative Bird Proofing Techniques of Solar Netting with Cost
To stop pigeons from nesting under solar panels netting is the best one and there is no comparison with it. There are some important techniques of PV panel netting cost. So, let’s discuss which factors can be alternative bird proofing techniques of solar netting with cost.
1. Bird Spikes
It is a permanent solution to keep birds from landing on solar panels. You will have to place the spikes to create a barrier the birds cannot cross. This is comparatively easy to install and budget-friendly. However, it is not visually appealing, and it is also tough to remove once you install it.
Net installation cost: You can get 3-foot lengths of bird spikes for less than $15. The overall expense can up to $200.
2. Metal or Net Mesh
Metal or net mesh provides comprehensive coverage of the solar array. So, it can prevent interference from all types of birds and insects. It is longer-lasting than some alternatives with extended protection. It is also visually appealing, maintaining the overall aesthetic of the panels. However, it needs more frequent maintenance. Although slightly more expensive, it is a more lasting and visually appealing alternative to bird spikes.
Net installation cost: The cost of metal or net mesh varies from $300 to $500, depending on the solar panel system’s size and the installation’s complexity.
3. Predator Replica
It is a scare tactic to create an unsettling environment for the birds to approach the panel. You can use replicas of predators, such as owls, crow reflective tape, and moving items on the roof. The sculptures will scare and discourage birds from roosting. While they may be the most affordable solution, other deterrents can improve their effectiveness.
Net installation cost: Predator replicas normally cost between $20 and $30.
4. Electric Bird Repellents
You can use electric bird repellants or Ultrasonic devices to keep the birds away. Electric bird repellents usually use shock or UV rays to scare the birds. Ultrasonic devices produce high-frequency sound waves. They disturb birds but are inaudible to people. These devices effectively repel birds without injuring them.
Net installation costs: You can get decent electric bird repellants or Ultrasonic devices for $200-$500.
5. Laser bird deterrent systems
Laser bird deterrence systems employ green laser beams to create a visual threat that birds interpret as a physical hazard. This causes them to fly away and avoid the area. These systems can be manual or automatic, with the latter programmable for specific times and locations.
Net installation costs: The price of laser bird repellants can vary by their models. The approximate price range is $200-$1000
Solar Panel Netting Installation Cost in The UK
The solar panel netting cost in the UK ranges from £300 to £1000. This includes the cost of materials and labor. An extra charge can be added if you have special requirements. Different regions have different price ranges. Here is the solar panel netting price chart by region,
| Region | Low-end cost | High-end cost |
| London | £500 | £1000 |
| Southeast | £450 | £950 |
| Midlands | £400 | £850 |
| North | £350 | £800 |
| Scotland | £300 | £750 |
| Wales | £300 | £750 |
Factors Influencing Solar Netting Installation Costs
Photovoltaic netting installation cost depends on some essential factors and this cost is not the same everywhere. For this reason, we have referred here to some crucial points that can influence PV netting setup costs. So, let’s take a look
1. Size and Number of Solar Array
The size and number of solar panels hugely affect the actual installation cost of netting. The greater the number of panels, the more netting materials they will need. Also, larger panels often need special equipment and labor to install. Additionally, a larger surface area needs an extra hour to complete the installation. These factors will eventually cause the sum cost to rise.
2. Accessibility or Installation Complexity
The height, accessibility, and solar panel configuration can influence the cost of the netting installation. The more accessible your solar panel is, the less complex the installation will be, which will lower the installation cost. If your panels are easy to reach, like in your garden or on a low roof, the professional will face fewer obstructions, making the installation process hassle-free and cost-effective.
On the other hand, if your solar panels are on a complex roof (install PV panel in tile roof) or in a hard-to-reach area, they will require special equipment like scaffolding or ladders for safe installation. This will require more time and labor and make the installation process relatively costly.
3. Professional Installation vs. DIY
Professional solar panel netting is the only option if you want a secured installation, so it comes with a higher cost. The bird control specialist or solar panel installers will ensure all the safety protocols at a decent charge. If you have a smaller area to cover, you can go for DIY installation. Invest your labor and tools to save money.
4. Installation Tools
If you are into DIY solar netting installation, you will need some installation tools. They include drills, wire cutters, screws, zip ties etc. This can add between $10 and $50 to your installation cost. However, this cost will depend on your current tool collection and installation complexity.
5. Additional Equipment
Complex solar panel netting can require additional equipment, increasing the cost. You can invest in motion-activated sprinkles, ultrasonic devices, bird repellants, etc. Their cost can vary by specific products or brands. However, the net cost can add up to $10 to $200.
6. Maintenance and Replacement
Replacing the old netting and maintaining the new one can increase or decrease the net installation cost. If you previously had solar netting or other bird-proofing on the panel, the installers will charge extra to uninstall it. Regular inspection and maintenance will add further costs. These costs will depend on the materials and the extent of replacement. Partial replacement will cost less, and whole replacement will cost more.
7. Labor costs
The basic installation labor cost will vary depending on the pre installment services. If your solar panels are perfectly ready for installation, you will not have to count extra money. However, cleaning up the droppings, nesting or repairing the solar panel or solar panel maintenance will cut extra charge. The dirty and damaged your solar panel, the more you will have to pay for this.
8. Regions
Solar netting costs will also depend on the region where you are working. The price of labor and materials differs between regions. Also, the availability of the professional affects the charge. If you are in an area with ample professionals, there will be more competitors, so the price will be less and vice versa.
How Can You Minimize the Cost of Bird Netting in 5 Easy Ways?
Choosing the right mesh size, rope net, well set up, and other factors can contribute to minimizing the cost of bird netting. However, let’s see some essential factors for reducing the bird netting cost.
1. Choosing a Large Mesh Size
You can use a large mesh size that matches the bird species you are targeting. Larger mesh sizes use less material, which will help cut material expenses and the overall cost of the netting. However, you must ensure the mesh size suits the native bird species. Consult a professional bird control provider to identify the best mesh size for your needs.
2. Use High-Quality Steel Fittings for Robust Installation
Invest in high-quality steel fittings when fixing the netting over your solar panel. Though it is costly, it will save money in the long run. It will ensure the netting remains secured even in harsh weather conditions. Thus, it will prevent the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
3. Hire Professional Bird Proofing Experts
We have previously said that DIY netting installation is cost-effective. But hiring a professional bird control company will ensure utmost accuracy and effectiveness. Their experience will help you choose the right material and installation plan. They can also address potential challenges to reduce the space of errors. This will lead you to save a lot of costly repairs and adjustments.
4. Use Rope Access Teams for High-Rise Installation
Rope access teams are an efficient and cost-effective solution for installing bird netting on high-roof solar panels. You will not need expensive and unsightly scaffolding, which will decrease the installation cost. The rope access team can also speed up the installation process and minimize disruptions.
5. Plan for Maintenance Access to Cut Future Costs
Careful maintenance planning from the installation phase can reduce long-term costs. You can insert access zips inside the netting, which will ensure quick maintenance access while protecting the netting. Alternatively, you will need to cut holes in the netting for maintenance, which will result in costly repairs or replacements. Planning ahead of time will help you minimize these unwanted expenses.
Final Thought
We hope you have all the necessary ideas about solar panel netting installation costs in the UK and the USA. Prices can increase and decrease depending on the factors we have discussed. Consider them and plan your installation accordingly. Follow our tips to cut the cost of installing bird netting considerably. If you install bird netting properly, it will protect your solar panels for years from birds, debris, and other environmental factors related to damage.
Frequently Asked Question
What Are Proof Solar Panels?
Bird-proof solar panels include a barrier around their edges to keep birds from nesting underneath. This helps to keep the panels working properly and lasting longer.
How Much Does Professional Bird Netting for Solar Panels Cost?
The cost of expert bird netting services varies based on the size of your solar panel system and the severity of the bird-related concerns. It is essential to contact reliable providers for a custom price based on your individual needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Put Netting Around Solar Panels?
The cost will depend on your panels and quality. A roll of bird netting normally costs between £150 and £200. This pricing can vary by the materials, such as, which high-density polyethylene netting. It is both durable and effective in long-term use.
How Long Does Bird Netting Last?
Once installed, bird netting will survive for over 20 years. It is cost-effective and has low maintenance to deal with dirt and debris. However, durability will depend on the material and the environment.
Can Bird-Proofing Solar Panels Void the Warranty?
It will depend on the manufacturer’s terms and conditions. Generally, the guarantee should be valid as long as you do not drill into the panels or cause structural damage while installing bird-proofing methods. Noninvasive solutions like mesh and clips are unlikely to void your warranty. Before installation, make sure your warranty information is correct.
Bird Roofing Solar Panels Cost – Is It Worth It?
Yes, netting your solar panels is necessary. Birds can cause severe damage to solar panels, resulting in costly repairs and lower efficiency. Investing in solar panels can save you from costly repairs, protect your assets, and guarantee peak performance.
What Does Solar Panel Bird Netting Installation Entail?
Installing bird netting entails wrapping a sturdy mesh or netting around the solar panels. This barrier keeps birds from breeding and inflicting damage. It is important to ensure the netting is secure while not obstructing airflow.