If there’s one thing that the UK is known for it’s the sheer number of pigeons we have. While these birds are beautiful, they are famous for being a nuisance. One of the ways in which they wreak havoc is by nesting underneath solar panels.
Since I know that you’ll have spent a small fortune on installing your solar panels, I appreciate that you’re not going to want to have them ruined by the local wildlife.
Fortunately, there is a way to pigeon-proof your solar panels but how much will this set you back?
How Do Pigeons Damage Solar Panels?
Pigeons, like all birds, need a safe space to nest and, unfortunately, underneath your solar panels is as good a place as any. It’s sheltered from the elements and keeps the birds away from predators; what better spot to choose?
But while this might be a great place for the pigeons, they’re going to cause some damage while they’re nesting.
Where pigeons are present, so are their droppings and any dirt and dust they may accumulate while going about their daily business. Dirt is not conducive to optimal performance of your solar panels so this needs to be avoided at all costs.
What’s more, there’s a risk of the birds pecking or scratching the solar panels and the wiring which can prevent them from working as they should.
Help! I Have Pigeons Under My Solar Panels
If you’ve noticed a nest of pigeons underneath your solar panels, it can be very worrying. While pigeon-proofing is very effective, it does little to tackle a problem that’s already in place.
But there are pigeon-proofing experts who will not only install the necessary preventative equipment but are also specially trained for carefully removing existing nests.
How Can I Pigeon Proof My Solar Panels?
There are a few options when it comes to installing pigeon-proofing for your solar panels. Which you choose will depend on your personal preference, what suits your solar panels and how much you’re looking to spend.
One of the most common options is a bird mesh which is installed in the space between the bottom of the panel and the roof. This mesh wire seals up the space and stops any unwanted wildlife from getting inside.
Some people prefer to install spikes which act as a deterrent to pigeons looking for a place to nest. While they don’t actually cover up any gaps around the panels, they make the roof less attractive by eliminating roosting spots.
There are some companies that offer a solar skirt. This is often the most aesthetically pleasing option but also slightly more expensive. The solar skirt sits around the gap between the roof and the panel and comes in a material and colour that’s the same as the panels, resulting in a more sleek finish.
How Much Does It Cost To Pigeon Proof Solar Panels?
You’ve spent a good amount of money on your solar panels so the last thing you want is to be out of pocket after pigeon-proofing them. But it’s good news!
The average cost of bird mesh comes in at just £40 to £60 per panel so it isn’t going to break the bank.
Anti-roosting spikes are a favoured solution to this problem due to their affordability. It’s possible to purchase a set of these spikes from online retailers like Amazon for around £20 to £30.
Installing a solar skirt is one of the more expensive options and may cost around £20 per skirt. You may need more than one skirt for each panel so the cost can quickly add up. However, if you’re looking for something that isn’t going to ruin the curb appeal of your home, this is usually the best option. Plus, the materials are usually very durable and may last longer than other options.
Your Solar Panel Warranty
When choosing a pigeon-proofing option, I cannot stress enough the importance of not interfering with the solar panel’s structure or integrity in any way.
Not only does drilling into the panel to attach the pigeon-proofing come with the risk of damaging the panel but it may also void your warranty.
Most solar panels come with a very generous warranty and the last thing you want to do is to void this as repairing or replacing panels could be very costly.
Before installing any type of pigeon proofing, I would recommend taking a close look at the warranty to ensure that there won’t be any problems down the line.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure: Tips For Deterring Pigeons From Nesting Under Your Solar Panels
Having to remove pigeon nests from under your solar panel really does cause unnecessary stress. While pigeon-proofing the panels is a great way to prevent this from happening, there are other things you can do to further decrease the chance of any avian visitors.
- Keeping your garden clean and tidy is one of the best ways to control pests. Always ensure that you remove any rubbish and anything that could become a potential nesting material such as twigs, leaves, grass piles etc.
- Fake predators are a great way to deter pigeons and other unwanted pests from your garden. Things like plastic or stone animals, especially those with reflective eyes work very well. You might even go as far as installing a scarecrow!
- As I mentioned in the previous point, reflective items are a great deterrent for pigeons. Having as many as these as possible in the garden is a great way to keep birds away.
- If you’re keen to help nesting birds but don’t want them under your solar panels, you could install bird boxes and houses that provide wildlife with a suitable place to nest.
- Mothballs are a great way to send pigeons packing so consider placing some around the roof of your property.
