--- description: For bird proofing solar panels, use an automated bird repellent system, panel bird mesh, spikes, and reflective mirrors. title: 5 Easy Ways of Bird Proofing Solar Panels - Energy Theory image: https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ways-to-Bird-Proof-Your-Solar-Panels-1.png --- Close Menu - [About](https://energytheory.com/about-us/) - [EV](https://energytheory.com/category/electric-vehicles/) - [FAQs](https://energytheory.com/category/faqs/) - [Glossary](https://energytheory.com/category/glossary/) - [Green](https://energytheory.com/category/green/) - [Renewable](https://energytheory.com/category/renewable/) - [Sustainable](https://energytheory.com/category/sustainable/) - [Energy Economy](https://energytheory.com/category/energy-economy/) - [Energy Services](https://energytheory.com/category/energy-services/) - [Solar](https://energytheory.com/category/solar/) - [Sustainable](https://energytheory.com/category/sustainable/) - [News](https://energytheory.com/category/latest-news/) - Language [![Energy Theory](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2e3rtgthghnm.png)](https://energytheory.com/ "Energy Theory") ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![es](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/es.svg) Spanish ![fr](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fr.svg) French ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![it](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/it.svg) Italian ![zh-CN](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/zh-CN.svg) Chinese (Simplified) ![nl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/nl.svg) Dutch ![fi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fi.svg) Finnish ![de](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/de.svg) German ![hi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/hi.svg) Hindi ![ja](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ja.svg) Japanese ![pl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pl.svg) Polish ![pt](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pt.svg) Portuguese ![ru](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ru.svg) Russian [![Energy Theory](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2e3rtgthghnm.png)](https://energytheory.com/ "Energy Theory") ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![es](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/es.svg) Spanish ![fr](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fr.svg) French ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![it](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/it.svg) Italian ![zh-CN](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/zh-CN.svg) Chinese (Simplified) ![nl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/nl.svg) Dutch ![fi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fi.svg) Finnish ![de](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/de.svg) German ![hi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/hi.svg) Hindi ![ja](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ja.svg) Japanese ![pl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pl.svg) Polish ![pt](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pt.svg) Portuguese ![ru](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ru.svg) Russian [Solar](https://energytheory.com/category/solar/) # 5 Easy Ways of Bird Proofing Solar Panels You can use bird spikes or mesh to keep birds away from your panels. By [Olivia Bolt](https://energytheory.com/author/olivia_bolt/)April 24, 20247 Mins Read ![Ways to Bird Proof Your Solar Panels 1](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ways-to-Bird-Proof-Your-Solar-Panels-1.png "5 Easy Ways of Bird Proofing Solar Panels") As cities expand and food and water become more available, birds are moving from parks to home roofs, sometimes causing unwanted mess. This can be problematic when you have a rooftop solar panel system. These feathered friends leave behind droppings, guano, and feathers that can damage your panel’s surface and reduce its efficiency. You can prevent all this by following some easy ways of bird proofing solar panels. ## **Bird Proofing Solar Panels** It provides much-needed protection against birds as their droppings can accumulate on solar modules over time, blocking sunlight, and hence reducing the overall efficiency of panels. To avoid this issue and prevent birds from building nests, you can **place a barrier around the space between roof and the PV panel**. And then, your panels are safe from birds. Below, we have discussed some methods, and by implementing these, you can keep the feathered friends away from your panels. ### **Method 1. Opt for Automated Bird Repellent System** ![bird proofing solar panels ](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/bird-proofing-solar-panels.jpg) You can install it near a solar module. They **produce some sort of light or sound** to ward off birds and other such beings. The visual deterrent systems emit lights the birds abstain from and the sound deterrent system uses the same approach but with sound. As the birds usually linger around the panels during the day, it’s much more practical to** use the sound deterrent system.** You can also install a scarecrow to keep birds away from your roof. Also, check out [Do Solar Lights Attract Bugs?](https://energytheory.com/do-solar-lights-attract-bugs/) ### **Method 2. Install Solar Panel Bird Mesh** Such meshes are crafted out of flexible, lightweight, and durable material. They **feature a net-like design with a thin layer of metal.** This design prevents birds from flying through and defecating on the panel. Installing them can be a bit tricky, you may need to look for experts or companies to carry forward the installation process. ### **Method 3. Install Reflective Mirrors** ![mirrors](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/JAN23-Can-Mirrors-Boost-Solar-Panel-Output-1024x683.jpg) With a little bit of effort, these mirrors can **work as excellent bird repellents.** You just need to set them up in a way that makes it difficult for the birds to approach your PV panels. Another option is to purchase a reflective bird deterrent. It utilizes wind, sunlight, and reflective flashes to deter the birds. ![5 Easy Ways of Bird Proofing Solar Panels](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/826ad07b3e01bdadf5534e551a18de62.jpg) ### **Method 4. Regularly Clean Solar Module / Maintenance** If you haven’t cleaned your solar panels for a while, they won’t just gather dust. They could become a place where birds nest and leave droppings. And as it covers the panels it is hard for them to soak up sunlight, which affects how well they work. Do you know: [Birds droppings can carry over 60 diseases](https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/birds.html).This is a bigger concern in residential areas, as many of these diseases could spread through the air. To avoid all this, clean your panels regularly to keep them working well and maintain their lifespan. Here are [8 Benefits of Cleaning Solar Panels](https://energytheory.com/8-benefits-of-cleaning-solar-panels/). ### **Method 5. Install Bird Spikes** ![Spikes](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Spikes.jpg) You can install them around the panels to ward off birds. They are small but can cause a bit of **discomfort to birds if they land on the spikes**, thus discouraging them. Crafted from flexible and durable plastic, they are usually not more than two inches wide. They are also easy to install and remove. > Cross-reference: [Preventing & Deterring Birds from Nesting Under Solar Panels](https://www.hiesscheme.org.uk/2023/09/14/how-to-get-rid-of-pigeons-nesting-under-solar-panels/) ### **Bird and Pigeon Proofing Solar Panels DIY** Usually, professionals should handle the installation process, but here are some general steps if you want to do solar panel bird mesh installation yourself: **Materials Needed:** - 30m Roll of Black UV PVC Coated Wire Mesh - 100pk Solar Panel Mesh Fasteners - Wire Cutters / Snips - Pliers - Ladder - Work Gloves **Installation Steps:** **Step 1:** Start by folding the end of the mesh roll at a 45° angle. **Step 2:** Now, attach a fastener cap at the fastener hook’s end. **Step 3:** Start at one corner of the solar panel group. Hold the wire mesh so it’s even with the top of the panel frame. Push the fastener hook through the mesh and connect it under the panel frame. **Step 4:** Now use your hand or pliers to hold fastener’s end. Tighten the mesh against the panel frame by sliding the fastener cap. **Step 5:** Put the hook tail into the slot on the fastener cap to lock it in place. Do this again, putting the fasteners about every 30cm around the panel. **Step 6:** To finish the mesh corners, fold them over and under each other. **Step 7:** For inside corners, cut the mesh halfway up from the bottom so you can fold it. For rails and switch gear, cut openings or flaps in the mesh to shape it around them. **Note:** Taking safety precautions and using safety gear like a harness is a must while working at heights. If you don’t have proper safety gear or knowledge, hold your desire for DIY and ring up a professional installer. ![An Installation Guide To - Bird Barrier's Solar Panel Exclusion Kit](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/24c455ac3ee9da3bf55725cc8251c3c1.jpg) **Also See:** [Is Solar Panel Removal and Reinstallation Possible?](https://energytheory.com/is-solar-panel-removal-and-reinstallation-possible/) ### **Best Solar Panel Mesh Kit** After learning about such kits and their effectiveness against birds, let’s explore the top solar panel mesh kits available on the market: #### **1. Bird-X Solar Mesh Guard Kit** ![Jan 23 Easy Ways to Bird Proof Your Solar Panels: Bird-X Solar Mesh Guard Kit](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jan-23-easy-ways-to-bird-proof-your-solar-panels-b.png) *Pic Credit: Bird-X* It is among the best solar panel pigeon proofing kits. [Bird-X Solar Mesh Guard Kit](https://bird-x.com/bird-products/solar-mesh-guard-kit/) is designed to **prevent birds and rodents from accessing the area** beneath your PV panels and causing damage to your roof and the panels’ electrical wiring. It creates a barrier that keeps pests away from the mounting area of the panels. You can attach it to panels without causing harm or voiding their warranty. They are easy to install and are compatible with brackets depth of more than 30 mm. On its official site, the kit is **listed at around $90.08**. **Features:** - 100 ft. of stainless steel mesh - 100 solar clips - Its mesh and clips are weather-resistant and durable. - 5-year warranty #### **2. Bird B Gone Solar Panel Bird Deterrent Mesh** ![Bird B Gone Solar Panel Bird Deterrent Mesh](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jan-23-easy-ways-to-bird-proof-your-solar-panels.png) *Pic Credit: Bird B Gone* [Bird B Gone Solar Panel Bird Deterrent Mesh](https://www.birdbgone.com/solar-panel-bird-deterrent-mesh/) comes in a 100 ft roll with two width options—6 and 8 inches. You can choose the right size by measuring the space between your roof and the panel. This mesh binds the cage of the array without penetrating or drilling the modules. It also has easy installation and takes only a few hours. On the company’s official site, its price is listed **at around $110.00**. **Features:** - 1/2″ wire mesh (Stops birds and critters) - Weather-resistant .058″ Black Coated PVC - Almost invisible #### **3. Heyco® SunScreenKit®** ![Heyco® SunScreenKit®: Best solar panel mesh kit](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jan-23-easy-ways-to-bird-proof-your-solar-panels-h.png) *Pic Credit: Heyco* This **PVC-coated and galvanized welded steel mesh** comes in a 100 ft roll with three width options: 4, 6, and 8 inches. The [Heyco® SunScreenKit®](https://www.heyco.com/Solar_Power_Components/product.cfm?product=SunScreenKit§ion=Solar_Power_Components) also includes 36 solar panel mesh clips made of 303 and 304 Stainless Steel for durability against outdoor elements. The **303 Stainless Steel J-Hook** easily attaches to the solar panel frames and can be trimmed or bent as needed after assembly. The **304 Stainless Steel Washers** firmly hold the wire mesh screen to the module assembly. It prevents damage from squirrels and rodents and keeps birds from nesting under the solar panel. **Features:** - [Mesh size:](https://www.heyco.com/Solar_Power_Components/product.cfm?product=SunScreen§ion=Solar_Power_Components)1/2″ x 1/2″ - DFARS Compliant - Black color option available for applications under HOA appearance restrictions. - Stainless Steel Washers are available in steel color or black painted versions. **Also See:** [24 Most Common Solar Panel Problems With Solutions](https://energytheory.com/common-solar-panel-problems/) ### **Bird Proofing Solar Panels Cost** Typically, bird-proofing residential solar systems can cost **between 767.29 USD to 1,278.82 USD** ([£600-£1,000](https://energyguide.org.uk/pigeon-proofing-solar-panels/)) on average. However, the cost can vary based on factors such as roof size, accessibility, and the number of solar panels installed. ### **Is It Worth Bird Proofing Solar Panels?** **Yes**, it is quite worth it. Typically, panels are installed on rooftops, attracting birds seeking shelter. However, this can damage your roof as well as the panel, leading to system failure. To address these issues, bird proofing methods like spikes and mesh deter birds should be introduced as droppings can pose a health hazard. For more such interesting content, keep exploring our website. **Recommended:** [How do I Know How Much Electricity My Solar Panels are Generating?](https://energytheory.com/how-do-i-know-how-much-electricity-my-solar-panels-are-generating/) Share. 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She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic. #### Related Posts [![](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Large-Area-PV-Solar-Modules-with-12.6-Efficiency-with-Nickel-Oxide-by-Italian-Scientists-300x200.png "Large-Area PV Solar Modules with 12.6% Efficiency with Nickel Oxide by Italian Scientists")](https://energytheory.com/large-area-pv-solar-modules-with-12-6-efficiency-with-nickel-oxide-by-italian-scientists/ "Large-Area PV Solar Modules with 12.6% Efficiency with Nickel Oxide by Italian Scientists") #### [Large-Area PV Solar Modules with 12.6% Efficiency with Nickel Oxide by Italian Scientists](https://energytheory.com/large-area-pv-solar-modules-with-12-6-efficiency-with-nickel-oxide-by-italian-scientists/) September 25, 2024 [![Dimerized Small Molecule Achieves 18.12% Efficiency in Ternary Organic Solar Cells](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dimerized-Small-Molecule-Achieves-18.12-Efficiency-in-Ternary-Organic-Solar-Cells-300x200.png "Dimerized Small Molecule Achieves 18.12% Efficiency in Ternary Organic Solar Cells")](https://energytheory.com/dimerized-small-molecule-achieves-18-12-efficiency-in-ternary-organic-solar-cells/ "Dimerized Small Molecule Achieves 18.12% Efficiency in Ternary Organic Solar Cells") #### [Dimerized Small Molecule Achieves 18.12% Efficiency in Ternary Organic Solar Cells](https://energytheory.com/dimerized-small-molecule-achieves-18-12-efficiency-in-ternary-organic-solar-cells/) August 28, 2024 [![Ultrastable and efficient Dion-Jacobson perovskite solar cells](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ultrastable-2D-Dion-Jacobson-Perovskites-Achieves-19.11-Efficiency-300x200.png "Ultrastable 2D Dion-Jacobson Perovskites Achieves 19.11% Efficiency")](https://energytheory.com/ultrastable-2d-dion-jacobson-perovskites-achieves-19-11-efficiency/ "Ultrastable 2D Dion-Jacobson Perovskites Achieves 19.11% Efficiency") #### [Ultrastable 2D Dion-Jacobson Perovskites Achieves 19.11% Efficiency](https://energytheory.com/ultrastable-2d-dion-jacobson-perovskites-achieves-19-11-efficiency/) August 13, 2024 Add A Comment Leave A Reply [Cancel Reply](https://energytheory.com/bird-proofing-solar-panels/#respond) Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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