How Much Does It Cost to Pigeon-Proof Solar Panels?

It costs between £25 and £700 to pigeon-proof your solar panels. However, the price will vary depending on the type of pigeon-proofing you opt for and how many solar panels you have.

Let’s take a closer look at these costs and the factors that will influence the overall price.

The Cost of Pigeon Proofing Solar Panels

When thinking about pigeon-proofing your solar panels, you need to consider two costs involved: the bird-proofing materials and the installation costs.

Material costs

Several materials are available for pigeon-proofing solar panels; however, bird mesh, bird spikes, and bird netting are the three most common types. The prices for the materials range from £25 to over £200.

Bird mesh

Bird mesh is a cost-effective way to protect your solar panels. The mesh acts as a physical barrier, preventing pigeons and other birds from nesting underneath the panels.

Usually, a roll of bird mesh costs between £50 and £100. More specifically, PVC-coated solar mesh kits, including clips, can be found for around £69.99 to £120.99.

Installing bird mesh seals off the area underneath the solar panels and can run around the entire perimeter. It’s favoured because it can keep even baby pigeons out and it has a minimal visual impact on the property.

Bird spikes

Bird spikes are another economical solution to prevent pigeons from damaging your solar panels. A pack of spikes typically costs around £25, making them a relatively inexpensive option.

These anti-roosting spikes can be easily attached to the sides of solar panels to stop pigeons from perching and causing damage.

Bird spikes are easy and cost-effective, offering a more targeted approach to your pigeon problem. However, they’re not that effective in preventing smaller birds from entering the space beneath the solar panels. Due to this downfall, this method is usually used in combination with a mesh or netting system.

Bird netting

Bird netting tends to be more expensive but offers better protection. A roll of bird netting typically ranges from £150 to £200, depending on the size and quality. High-density polyethylene netting, which is durable and effective for long-term use, falls within this price range.

Labour costs: Installation and maintenance

Labour costs for pigeon-proofing solar panels generally range from £220 to £300 per day.

Let’s take anti-roosting spikes as an example. These costs will usually cover the services of two technicians, who will also clean up bird droppings before they install anti-roosting spikes.

However, if there’s already damage to the solar panels, it can affect the overall cost of bird-proofing, as the panels will need to be repaired prior to installation.

Cost variations: Platform, scaffolding, and repairs

The overall cost of pigeon-proofing an average-sized solar panel system can range from £300 to £700, depending on the complexity of the installation and the specific methods used.

The main factors influencing the price include the size of the solar array, roof accessibility, and the need for additional safety equipment like scaffolding.

Using a mobile platform to reach solar panels is a common servicing method and costs £300 to £500 to rent per day. However, this may not be suitable for properties with uneven roof tiles. When a mobile platform can’t be used, scaffolding is the next best thing.

Additionally, solar panel repairs resulting from pigeon problems can add to the overall cost.

Minor repairs, such as cleaning and small fixes, may cost a few hundred pounds. However, more extensive damage, such as corrosion from droppings or dislodged electrical components, can cost upwards of £500 to £1,000, depending on the severity of the damage.

Expert Solar Panel Maintenance

Before you install solar panel pigeon proofing, you’ll need to ensure that your panels are in optimum condition. That’s where Eco Happy comes in. We are your go-to experts for comprehensive solar panel maintenance and servicing.

We’ll ensure that your solar panels are damage-free and performing as they should before and after you bird-proof them. We help guarantee that you get the most out of your renewable energy system and prevent costly repairs further down the line.

If you’re ready to take the next step to ensure the longevity of your solar panels, contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss any questions you may have.

FAQs

What DIY methods can be used to repel pigeons from solar panels?

Other DIY methods to repel pigeons from your solar panels include repellent sprays or visual deterrents. These solutions are not intended to harm the animals, but to keep them from landing on nesting or nesting underneath solar panels. Methods such as decoy predators (like plastic owls) or reflective objects can be effective in certain situations.

However, these DIY methods are best used as supplementary measures alongside more robust physical barriers like mesh or spikes.

How do pigeons damage solar panels?

Pigeons can cause significant damage to solar panels in several ways:

• Their droppings are acidic and can corrode the surface of the panels, reducing their efficiency.
• Nesting material and droppings can block sunlight, further decreasing energy output.
• Pigeons and other birds can peck at or dislodge components, potentially causing physical damage and even creating fire hazards if nests are built near electrical components.

What are the most effective methods for pigeon-proofing solar panels?

The most effective methods for pigeon-proofing solar panels include installing bird mesh, bird spikes, and using deterrents.

Bird mesh is highly effective as it seals off the area underneath the panels, preventing pigeons from nesting. Spikes deter birds from landing on the panels by creating an uncomfortable surface. Other deterrents, such as decoy predators or ultrasonic devices, can also be used in combination with physical barriers to enhance protection

Can bird-proofing solar panels void the warranty?

Whether bird-proofing your solar panels voids the warranty depends on the manufacturer’s terms and conditions.

It’s essential to check your warranty details before installation. Generally, as long as you do not drill into the panels or cause any structural damage during the installation of bird-proofing measures, the warranty should remain intact. Non-invasive methods like mesh and clips are least likely to affect your warranty.

Final Thoughts

Pigeons nesting on your solar panels is a big problem you want to avoid. That’s why pigeon-proofing is a necessary investment to keep your panels in optimal condition and to prevent damage, so you can continue enjoying renewable energy for years to come.