Pigeon Guards in Peoria, AZ

Pigeon Guards matter for rooftop systems in Peoria because a solar array gives a pigeon exactly what it wants. Feral pigeons descend from rock doves that nested on cliff ledges, and they treat buildings the same way. The space under a panel is a covered ledge with shade, a view and protection from hawks. In a West Valley summer that shade is valuable, and once a pair settles in, they tend to stay.

Why nests under panels are a problem

Pigeons can breed at any time of year because they feed their young on crop milk, so a nest under the array is rarely a one-season visit. Over time the space fills with sticks, feathers and droppings. That debris traps heat under the panels, holds moisture against the roof after monsoon rain, and can block water flowing to the gutters. Birds also peck at and pull on wiring, and droppings on the glass shade the cells below them. Then there is the noise and the mess on the patio below.

How the guards work

Guards are galvanized or coated wire mesh, cut to height and fastened to the panel frames with clips designed for solar modules. The mesh runs along the full perimeter of the array, closing the gap between the panel edge and the roof. Nothing is drilled into the roof or the panels, so the roof penetrations stay as they are. Mesh is sized so air still moves under the array to help keep the panels cool.

Get a Free Estimate

Cleanout comes first

Putting mesh around an active nest just traps birds or eggs inside. Before any guard goes on, we look under the array, clear out nests and debris, and remove droppings from the roof and the panel glass. We look for damaged wiring while we are there. If birds are actively nesting, we discuss timing with you before the cleanout.

Tile roofs and HOA neighborhoods

On concrete tile roofs, the gap under the array varies from one tile to the next because of the tile profile, so the mesh is trimmed to follow it. In neighborhoods with HOA design rules, common in newer master-planned areas such as Vistancia, the color and visibility of anything added to a roof can matter. Mesh in a dark finish usually blends in with the panel frames, but check your HOA guidelines if you are unsure.

Pair it with other work

If you are also getting a cleaning, a checkup or a reroof that takes the panels off, adding guards at the same visit avoids a second trip. On a reinstall, we can put guards on before the array goes back into service.