With an ever-increasing emphasis on creating sustainable power, solar power is becoming a big trend in the UK, with more buildings having solar panels erected, from homes to churches, schools, factories and warehouses. This will become more and more important as renewable energy powers more of our homes and perhaps our heating systems that can be installed by companies. It is also a consideration for Industrial Roofers when installing new roofs, especially if the company is looking for ways in which to incorporate solar panels into their roofing design.
Unfortunately, with this increase in solar panel installation has come an increase in bird problems as the panels have proven to be very attractive to birds – especially pigeons. These birds use them for shelter from the elements and even as a handy place to build their nests. This is due to the residual heat that is caught between the panels and offers warmth to the birds.
Unfortunately, our feathered friends can prove to be very destructive to solar panels as they can bring debris with them, lessening the effectiveness of the panels and affecting their rate of return; birds can also cause damage to the wiring of the panels. Bird droppings also cause problems with the rate of return of solar panels.
Thankfully, there are a number of simple ways to deter birds that are both straightforward and cost-effective. Bird netting is one such method and is subsequently one of the most widespread bird deterrents in the country. Netting can cover an entire roof, and if you are worried about the aesthetic factor, you should know that it can be nearly invisible if it has been installed correctly.
Another highly effective bird deterrent is the use of bird wire, although this is only handy for light pressure bird problems or for where they have not yet started to build their nests.
Another method you can use is the application of bird gel, although this is more controversial. However, on the plus side, it is non-toxic and has proven success rates in the UK.
Other forms of bird control
If you want to find out more about what problems birds can cause and other methods of deterring birds, check out http://www.bpca.org.uk/pages/?page_id=147 and http://www.rspb.org.uk/makeahomeforwildlife/advice/gardening/unwantedvisitors/feralpigeons.aspx.
Seeking help with nuisance bird management
As you can see, there are a variety of ways to humanely but effectively deter birds from visiting or damaging your premises, so there is no need to get into a flap over some feathered pests.
