Google Solar API: Instant Roof Data for Contractors
Access Google’s satellite imagery database covering 472M+ buildings. Get roof measurements, pitch, azimuth, and segment areas in seconds – no drone, no ladder, no EagleView fees.
Sample API Response Data
Quick Answer
Google Solar API is Google’s satellite imagery database that provides instant roof measurements for contractors. BuildFolio integrates this API to give you accurate pitch, area, segment data, and solar potential – free, in about 10 seconds per address.
What is the Google Solar API?
Google Solar API is part of Google’s Environmental Insights Explorer. Originally built for solar installers to assess panel placement, it contains detailed 3D roof models for over 472 million buildings in the US and beyond. Contractors can access this data for any roofing, siding, or exterior project.
How Google Collects This Data
Google uses a combination of satellite imagery, aerial photography, and machine learning to create 3D models of rooftops. The same technology that powers Google Maps and Google Earth now powers your roof estimates.
Data Points Available from Google Solar API
Every API call returns comprehensive roof data. Here’s what you get for each address:
Roof Geometry
- Total roof area (sq ft)
- Individual segment areas
- Roof pitch per segment
- Azimuth (directional facing)
Solar Potential
- Annual sun hours
- Panel placement zones
- Shade analysis
- Energy production estimates
Building Info
- Building footprint
- Roof complexity score
- Obstruction detection
- Imagery date
Derived Calculations
- Material quantities
- Waste factors by pitch
- Ridge/hip/valley lengths
- Starter/drip edge estimates
Google Solar API vs EagleView
For years, EagleView was the only option for aerial measurements. Google Solar API changes the economics entirely:
| Feature | Google Solar API | EagleView |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per report | Free with BuildFolio | $15-45 per report |
| Delivery time | ~10 seconds | 2-24 hours |
| Roof area | Yes | Yes |
| Pitch data | Yes | Yes |
| Segment breakdown | Yes | Yes |
| 3D modeling | Basic | Detailed |
| Historical imagery | Current only | Some historical |
| Best for | Quick quotes, initial estimates | Complex commercial, insurance |
When to Use Each
Use Google Solar API for residential estimates and quick quotes – it’s free and instant. Reserve EagleView for complex commercial roofs or when insurance documentation requires it. Many contractors use both.
How BuildFolio Uses Google Solar API
1. Enter Address
Type the property address into BuildFolio. Our autocomplete validates the address against Google’s database.
2. Instant Fetch
BuildFolio calls Google Solar API and retrieves all available roof data in about 10 seconds.
3. Auto-Populate
Measurements flow directly into your estimate. Square footage, pitch multipliers, waste factors – all calculated.
Flows Into Living Estimates
Google Solar API data automatically populates your Living Estimate. Customers see accurate measurements alongside their pricing options – building confidence in your quote.
Google Solar API by Trade
Roofing Contractors
Get total roof area, pitch per segment, and complexity scores. Calculate shingle squares, underlayment rolls, and ridge cap instantly. Learn more
Solar Installers
Access sun hours, shading analysis, and optimal panel zones. The API was built for solar – get production estimates per segment. Learn more
Siding Contractors
Building footprint and roof overhang data help estimate exterior wall area. Combine with on-site measurements for complete siding quotes.
Gutter Installers
Roof perimeter and segment edges translate directly to linear feet of gutters and downspout locations.
Try Google Solar API Measurements Free
Enter any address and get roof data in seconds. No credit card required.
Start Free TrialFrequently Asked Questions
Is Google Solar API data accurate?
Google claims 98-99% accuracy for most residential roofs. BuildFolio contractors report measurements typically within 2-5% of on-site measurements. For complex roofs, verify with on-site measurements before final pricing.
What if Google doesn’t have data for an address?
Google covers 472M+ buildings but some rural areas or new construction may lack data. BuildFolio will notify you if data isn’t available – you can then enter measurements manually or use traditional methods.
How current is the satellite imagery?
Google updates imagery on a rolling basis. Most areas have imagery within the last 1-3 years. For properties with recent additions or changes, verify on-site before quoting.
Can I use Google Solar API without BuildFolio?
Technically yes – Google offers direct API access. But it requires developer integration, per-call fees, and building your own interface. BuildFolio includes API access free with your subscription and handles all the integration.
Does the API work for commercial buildings?
Google Solar API focuses on residential and small commercial buildings. Large commercial roofs may have limited data. For big commercial projects, consider EagleView or on-site measurements.
How does this compare to drone measurements?
Drones provide more current and detailed imagery but require equipment, flight time, and FAA compliance. Google Solar API is instant and free. Many contractors use satellite for initial quotes and drones for complex projects.