What to Know About Solar Critter Guards

June 7, 2025

The Problem with Roof-Mounted Solar Panels

When installed, solar panels naturally lead to a gap between your roof and the panels. This gap creates a warm, shaded space that can attract animals like birds, squirrels, rodents, and more. 
This can lead to a few big problems for solar panel owners. Animals can chew through wiring causing damage, electrical shortages, or system failure. Nesting material under panels causes ventilation issues and could even be a potential fire hazard in the worst-case scenario.

What are Critter Guards?

Critter guards are durable, weather-safe barriers that line the perimeter of your solar array, keeping pests out and eliminating the accumulation of debris underneath your panels. They are typically made from either plastic or a strong, coated mesh (our preferred method for durability) and do not affect panel performance in any way!

How Do We Install Them?

Our critter guard installation process is safe, non-invasive, and system-friendly:  
  1. We begin by inspecting the array and surrounding roof area to identify pest activity and ensure we have a safe working space to conduct the installation.
  2. Next, if using mesh, we custom-bend to fit tightly and cleanly around the perimeter of your panels. 
  3. We then attach the mesh to your panels using no-drill fittings to eliminate all risk of damaging your expensive panels. We pride ourselves on our non-intrusive installations. 
  4. Lastly, we wrap up with a quality check and cleanup, ensuring a perfect installation. We take pictures all throughout the process and share with you at the end. 

Are Critter Guards Worth the Cost?

If your home is in an area with tons of wildlife or known pest issues, critter guards can be a smart preventative measure for your solar system. The cost of repairing chewed wires or other damage can often exceed the cost of critter guards multiple times over. These wildlife barriers can be a great way to prolong the life of your solar panels.

Ready to Protect Your System?

Solar Clean Pros is based in Raleigh, NC and we install critter guards on both new and existing solar systems in North & South Carolina and Virginia


Use the form below to request a quote today!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Request More Information

Check Out Other Posts

The Importance of Strong Critter Guards

By Boosted Marketing • February 7, 2026
Not All Solar Critter Guards are Created Equal

What Are The Effects of Soiling on Solar Panels?

By Boosted Marketing • February 6, 2026
Solar panels are built to withstand the elements, but that doesn't mean they're immune to performance loss. One of the more common (and less understood) causes of reduced performance is due to soiling of the surface: the buildup of dirt, dust, pollen, bird droppings, salt residue, and other airborne debris on the panel surfaces. Fortunately, that problem is what Solar Clean Pros is in the business of solving.

Solar Panel Inspections: What We Look for During Your Cleaning Appointment

By Boosted Marketing • January 17, 2026
Solar panels are designed to be a low-maintenance investment, but that doesn't mean no maintenance is needed. Many customers have performance issues that can go unnoticed for months or even years because they're not visible from the ground. A visual inspection of your system helps catch small problems early, or identify the cause of ongoing problems to protect your performance and hopefully save you from costly repairs down the road. Here's some things we look for in our multi-point inspections that come standard with every solar cleaning appointment.

Signs Your Solar Panels May be Underperforming

By Boosted Marketing • November 27, 2025
Noticing lower solar output? Learn some of the common signs your panels are underperforming and how you can prevent issues before they cost you efficiency and money.

Birds, Squirrels, and Solar Panels; Why Wildlife Love Your Solar Panels

By Boosted Marketing • October 15, 2025
A Hidden Problem You Might Have on Your Roof