Rule of thumbRecommended
Roof orientation for future solar
SOLAR-ROOF-ORIENTATIONDescription
Orient the largest unobstructed roof slope toward the south, with ≥120 sqft of unbroken slope. Reserves the roof for future solar PV without redesign.
Why this exists
Future-proofing. Installing solar 5-10 years post-build is normal; designing for it costs nothing if you do it up front.
Measurements
| Property | Operator | Value | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
minUnobstructedSqft | min | 120 | sq_ft |
Categories
EnergyStructure
Source
AIA Residential Knowledge Communityno manifest entry
Best practices for residential design (—)
Section: Compiled professional consensus
Published 2024-01-01 · last verified 2026-05-09
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Avoid plumbing on exterior walls in cold climates · PLUMBING-AGAINST-EXTERIOR-WALLS
- Living spaces south-facing in cold climates · LIVING-SOUTH-FACING
- Mechanical room central, not corner · MECHANICAL-CENTRAL
- Water heater near fixtures · WATER-HEATER-NEAR-FIXTURES
Last reviewed 2026-05-09.