Should You Put Bird Guards on Solar Panels?

If you own solar panels (or are planning a solar PV installation) there is one question that most people don’t consider, should you install bird guards for solar panels? The short answer is: yes, in most cases, this is a sensible option. Here’s a look at what a solar panel bird guard is, some pros and cons and whether it’s a good choice for your installation.

What is a Solar Panel Bird Guard?

A solar panel bird guard (sometimes called solar bird mesh, pigeon mesh or edge protection) is a physical barrier (mesh or spikes etc) installed around the sides of your solar panels or underneath. The idea is to prevent birds, usually pigeons and other nesting birds, from getting under your panels to nest, leave droppings, chew through wiring or generally cause any damage and disruption.

Why Birds Like Solar Panels and Where They Are Likely to Nest

Birds find solar panels attractive for several reasons:

The area beneath a solar panel is usually sheltered from rain and wind, and the panels themselves are often warmer than the rest of the roof.
Birds are less vulnerable to predators, plus such places are usually undisturbed and quiet, which is good for nest building.

Benefits of a Solar Panel Bird Guard

Cleaner Panels, More Efficiency

Bird droppings and nesting debris shade out the sunlight that solar panels need, sometimes covering parts of a cell (creating partial shading issues) and sometimes covering entire panels. Cleaning and maintenance bills can add up. A bird guard helps to keep your panels cleaner and working better.

Less Physical Damage, Fewer Repairs

Birds peck at, chew through and pull on wiring, connectors and cable trays. They can damage other parts of the solar panel frame and array. It can add up over time, damage which in extreme cases could void your warranty. Guards help to prevent that.

Health, Hygiene & Protecting the Roof

Nesting material can trap moisture and cause mould build-up and degradation of roof materials. Matted fibres can block gutters and downpipes and attract other vermin. Bird droppings are acidic and while they are unsightly, they can also corrode surfaces.

Cost Savings in the Long Run

Bird guards do involve an upfront cost. However, that cost is often offset by lower cleaning and maintenance bills, and the prevention of damage over the long term can help to preserve output, so you get back the initial outlay in savings within a few years.

Drawbacks, Issues & Things to Consider

Installation Costs: Bird guards add to the upfront installation costs. Depending on your system size and type of guard (mesh, spikes or skirts, as well as roof height/tilt/accessibility) the additional price can vary.

Visibility / Appearance: Some guards are more visible around the edges of panels than others. Aesthetics can be an issue for some people, particularly in conservation areas or if the solar panels are visible from the street or from neighbours’ properties. Discreet low-profile guards or other designs may be available.

Installation Quality: If bird guards are not properly fitted, they may not be as effective at deterring birds or may even damage wiring or the panel frames and structural support, which could cause further issues or even void warranties. Ask for evidence of quality materials and a qualified electrician/solar installer to fit them.

Bird Nesting Season/Legal Considerations: Birds and their nests are often legally protected so it is always important to look out for signs of an active nest and if one is present, check the legal requirements and restrictions for removing it. It is generally best to do bird‐proofing outside the bird nesting season.

Should You Use a Solar Panel Bird Guard?

It’s worth considering a solar panel bird guard if:

You already have signs of bird activity near your solar panels (droppings, nests, scratching, rattling, droppings, or just a lot of feathers lying around).
Your solar panels are raised slightly above your roof surface, or there are larger gaps underneath them (which gives birds easy access).
You are in an area with a lot of birds (urban areas near buildings or trees etc).
Your solar installation is a significant investment, and you want to protect it for optimal long-term performance and safety.
You are installing new solar panels. If you are having solar panels fitted, it is normally easier and cheaper to add bird guards as part of the original installation rather than try to retrofit them later.

Conclusion

Solar panel bird guards may not be a glamorous accessory, but they are a very sensible addition. Designed to protect your solar investment, a solar panel guard will help to prevent birds from damaging or disrupting your panels, and make it easier to keep them clean and efficient. It’s a choice that is well worth considering for your solar panels.

At Eden Power Ltd we can advise whether bird guards are a good option for your solar panels, recommend a suitable product for your roof and home, and make sure they are properly installed without voiding any warranties.