A Guide on Bird-Proofing Your Solar Panels 

Solar panels are a fantastic investment for your home, helping you reduce your energy bills, cut your carbon footprint and boost your property’s value. But there’s one issue many homeowners overlook before buying – birds, particularly pigeons, under your solar panels. 

Now, although solar systems are built to withstand the elements, they aren’t designed for birds to nest underneath. These unwanted guests can cause long-term damage, impact performance and create a mess that’s both frustrating and costly to fix. 

In this guide, we’ll explore why bird-proofing your domestic solar panels or commercial solar panels is essential, the problems birds can cause, and the most effective ways to keep your panels – and your roof – in optimal condition. 

Why Are Birds Attracted to Solar Panels? 

Solar panels offer birds, especially pigeons and starlings, an ideal nesting spot. Raised a few inches off the roof, panels create a sheltered, warm and dry environment which is perfect for laying eggs and roosting out of reach from predators. 

Some of the main reasons birds nest under solar panels include: 

• Protection from the weather – Panels provide cover from rain and wind. 

• Shelter from predators – Roofs offer safety from cats, foxes and larger birds. 

• Stable surfaces for perching – Birds often use the panels themselves as perches. 

• Warmth from the panels – The slight heat from solar systems makes for cosy nesting. 

Unfortunately, what’s comfortable for birds can be a nuisance – or even dangerous – for your solar system. 

The Problems Birds Can Cause for Solar Panels 

Birds nesting under or around your solar panels might seem harmless at first, but over time they can create significant problems that impact your system’s performance, lifespan and your roof’s condition. 

Here’s what to watch out for: 

1. Damage to Wiring 

Birds often peck at or dislodge wiring under the panels. If left unchecked, this can cause: 

• Malfunctions or reduced energy output. 

• Safety hazards such as short circuits. 

• Expensive repairs. 

2. Blocked Ventilation and Drainage 

Solar panels need proper airflow and drainage to operate efficiently. Bird nests and debris can clog up these areas, causing: 

• Overheating of components. 

• Moisture build-up. 

• Long-term damage to the roof structure. 

3. Accumulated Bird Droppings 

Bird droppings are acidic and can eat away at panel coatings over time, leading to: 

• Reduced panel efficiency due to dirt and staining. 

• Permanent surface damage. 

• Unsightly mess and bad smells. 

4. Noise and Disturbance 

Nesting birds can be noisy, especially in the early mornings. Scratching, fluttering and chirping on your roof can become a regular disturbance. 

5. Attraction of Other Pests 

Bird nests can attract mites, fleas and insects. The longer a nest is allowed to remain, the more likely you’ll experience secondary pest problems in your loft or gutters. 

At East Yorkshire Solar, as part of our services, we offer comprehensive solar panel repairs and solar panel maintenance.  

Signs That Your Solar Panels Need Bird-Proofing 

Not sure if birds have made a home under your solar panels? Here are a few signs to look out for: 

• Regular bird activity on your roof, particularly pigeons. 

• Nesting materials visible under or around the panels. 

• Accumulated droppings on the roof or ground below. 

• Sounds of scratching or cooing from the roof area. 

• Noticeable drop in solar panel performance. 

Catching the problem early can save you time, money and stress. It’s always worth evaluating your panels regularly to make sure you’re abreast of the typical solar performance from your system.  

Effective Bird-Proofing Solutions 

Thankfully, there are several ways to bird-proof your solar panels and stop pigeons and other birds from turning your panels into their nesting area. 

1. Mesh Solar Panel Guards 

This is one of the most popular and effective bird-proofing methods. A steel mesh barrier is fitted around the perimeter of your panels, blocking birds from accessing the gap underneath. 

Benefits include: 

• Non-invasive installation (no drilling into panels). 

• Long-lasting, weatherproof materials. 

• Discreet and low-visibility design. 

2. Bird Spikes 

Spikes can be installed on roof edges, ridges or other perching areas to deter birds from landing. While not ideal for the panels themselves, they work well in combination with mesh to protect other areas of the roof. 

3. Decoy Deterrents  

Plastic owls, hawks or reflective deterrents can scare birds away from your roof temporarily. However, this method is less reliable over time, as birds often get used to them. 

4. Ultrasonic Repeller’s 

These emit high-frequency sounds that deter birds and other pests. While safe for humans and pets, they aren’t always effective as a standalone solution and work best alongside physical barriers. 

5. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning 

Keeping your roof and gutters clean reduces nesting appeal. Removing debris and nesting materials regularly can discourage birds from returning. 

Can You Install Bird-Proofing After Solar Panels Are Fitted? 

Yes, bird-proofing measures can be added to existing systems. In fact, many homeowners and businesses don’t realise they need protection until birds have already moved in. 

Professional installers can: 

• Safely remove existing nests and droppings (in accordance with UK wildlife laws). 

• Inspect for damage and make any necessary repairs. 

• Fit mesh or other deterrents to prevent future nesting. 

If you’re having solar panels installed soon, contact us to find out some of the bird-proofing solutions we can offer as part of our services.  

So, Is Bird-Proofing Really Worth It? 

Absolutely. Here’s why it makes sense: 

• Protect your investment – Prevent costly damage to your panels and wiring. 

• Maintain performance – Keep your system running at its full potential. 

• Avoid mess and noise – Keep your home cleaner, quieter, and pest-free. 

• Preserve roof health – Stop nests and droppings from damaging tiles and gutters. 

Compared to the potential cost of repairs and cleaning, bird-proofing is a small but important step that helps keep your solar system efficient and hassle-free for years to come. At East Yorkshire Solar, we install protective systems that keep animals away without affecting solar panel performance.  

Our Repairs and Replacement Services Include  

Cracked or broken solar panels may still generate power, but they won’t perform at their best. Our repairs process is as follows: 

1. Inspection  

The first step is to conduct a detailed inspection of your solar system. We’ll be able to identify any visible or hidden damages, including cracks, scratches or electrical faults. This allows us to thoroughly assess the extent of the problem and work out the best solution.  

2. Evaluation  

Once we’ve identified the issue, we’ll evaluate whether the damaged panel can be repaired or whether it requires a replacement. This decision is based on numerous factors, including the severity of the damage, the age of the panels in question and the potential cost of repair versus replacing them. We’ll always provide honest advice to make sure you get the best value for your money. 

3. Quote  

Transparency is important to us, which is why we’ll provide you with a clear and detailed quote before carrying out any work. This includes a breakdown of costs for repairs, replacements and labour so you know exactly what to expect. 

4. Repair or Replacement  

Once you’ve approved our quote, we’ll carry out the necessary work to the highest standard. Whether it’s repairing minor cracks, replacing a damaged panel or fixing wiring issues, we use only high-quality materials and components to ensure durability and performance. By addressing damage promptly, you can prevent further issues and ensure your solar PV system continues to generate clean, renewable energy for years to come. 

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Panels from Above 

Birds may be a natural and important part of our environment, but that doesn’t mean they belong under your solar panels. By taking steps to bird-proof your system, you can avoid damage, mess and unwanted guests, ensuring your solar setup continues working smoothly. 

At East Yorkshire Solar, we don’t just install solar panels, we protect them too. Whether you’re planning a new installation or need to retrofit bird-proofing to an existing system, our team is here to help. 

Further Support   

We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our team of solar panel experts today for further guidance and advice.   

Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk  
Telephone: 01482 230 422