Currently, solar energy has become very cost-effective and increasingly sustainable for the environment. Americans are wholeheartedly investing in solar panels for their homes or businesses. One of the more common questions I have come across is “Can you put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?”
Metal roofs are a great way to cover homes as they are very light and durable. And lucky for us that metal roofs are extremely suitable for installing solar panels. Depending on the type of metal roof you have, the solar installation system will differ.
How can you install Solar Panel on Metal Roof?
There is a variety of different ways metal roofing is done. Installers consider roofing materials, gauges, and metal types to properly install the solar panel system. It is very important for you to consult an experienced installer who has sufficient knowledge of metal roof solar installation and can find the right bracket for your solar panels.
The best part of metal roofs is that they can outlast your panel system. They can last for up to 70 years. So, when it comes to changing the panels after 25-30 years you will save expenses on the bracket system. Here I am covering how different metal roofs use different bracketing methods:
1. Standing Seam Metal Roofs
In this type of roofing individual metal panels are linked together with a curved connection that stands vertically to the roof surface. This “standing seam” provides a convenient place to mount your solar panels.
Using clamps made from high-strength aluminum, the solar panels can be mounted on metal standing seam roofs. In this clamp system, no holes need to be drilled into your roof making your installation faster. Besides you can remain worry-free about water leakage through the roof.
2. Ribbed Panel Metal Roof
A ribbed panel metal roof has raised trapezoidal ribs which are used as connection points between the roof and the solar panels. However, these mounting systems need to be bolted onto your roof. This process will include drilling through the r-panel and making sure the holes remain watertight by employing an adhesive or sealant.
One advantage of this bolting system is that they are railless. This system needs no rail because the mount point has a bracket for the panel. This saves both material and installation costs, which will help bring down the cost of your system.
3. Corrugated Metal Roof
Corrugated steel roofs are the original and oldest type of metal roofs available. You will commonly find them in barns or other industrial settings, however, these days they are found in residential homes as well.
Just like the ribbed panel mounting system, the solar mount system for these roofs also requires drilling. Hence your installer must ensure waterproofing. These mounts usually include an EPDM gasket on the base to prevent leaking, however, it is also recommended that a bead of caulk is also added.
Advantages of putting Solar Panels on Metal Roofs
1. Long-Lasting
Unlike traditional shingle roofs, metal roofs can last for up to 70 years which can outlive your solar panel. The advantage lies in the fact that you can save on bracketing costs when you replace the panels. Also, shingle roofs require regular maintenance which is a hassle for the panel system. This is something you will not have to worry about in the case of metal roofs.
2. Energy Efficient
Metal roofs usually are coated with reflective paints that keep them cool. These paints help to lower and regulate indoor temperature. Hence both metal roofs and solar panels can facilitate increasing energy efficiency and subsequent cost savings.
3. Suitable for different Solar Panel Types
At this time, PV solar panels are of two types mainly, silicon and thin-film photovoltaic panels. Silicon panels are heavier whereas thin-film photovoltaic ones are flexible. However, metal roofs are capable enough to handle both types of solar panel systems.
Besides, solar laminates can be used on metal roofing. They come in strips that attach to the roof surface which is another way to harvest solar energy.
4. Can Survive in harsh Weather
Metal roofs perform well under harsh weather conditions like high winds. So, if your panels are fastened properly using brackets, they are also unlikely to be damaged. Besides you can also use a solar panel protective cover to make your panels last longer.
Disadvantages of Solar Panels on Metal Roofs
Compared to the advantages, the minor issues that can occur with solar panels and metal roofing is quite negligible. Most of the issues are related to installation faults, for example, lack of adequate waterproofing can lead to water leakage through the roof. The wiring under the panels is sometimes harder to access during maintenance.
These drawbacks can certainly be abated when you consult an expert who has experience with metal roofs and solar panel installation systems.
So, should you put up Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?
The one-word answer is a resounding YES. Metal roofs are one of the best choices for solar panel installation. The standing seam metal roofs are an ideal pick as they require no drilling and have no water leakage risk. Metal roofs are an ecological option with durability and sustainability. When paired with a solar panel system, the metal roof will help to protect and ensure a long life for your panels.
Read More: What Solar Panels Do I Need For My Home
Final Words
Solar energy is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method to power your home. Advanced technology has made it possible for solar panels to work even in shade. Also, reduced costs are encouraging people to switch to solar energy.
Metal roofs are eco-friendly and recyclable. So, using metal roofing to support your solar panel system is a great way to ensure a durable system that can survive a long time.
Key Takeaways:
· Solar Panels can be easily mounted on metal roofs.
· Metal roofs are resilient and can last longer than your solar panels
· Solar panels and a metal roof can help to regulate your home’s cool.
· Metal roofs can support both PV and thin-film solar panels.
FAQs
1. Do solar panels ruin your roof?
Answer: When installed properly, solar panels do not damage your roofs. However, it is imperative that your solar installer is a licensed, qualified professional and your roof is in good condition.
2. Do solar panels increase property value?
Answer: Installing a solar system increases the property value of a home. Research shows that homes with solar PV systems on average sell for 4% higher than homes without solar energy.
3. What roof type is best for solar panels?
Answer: The roof type that is best for solar panels is a standing metal roof. However ribbed metal roofs, trapezoid metal roofs, and also asphalt shingle roofing work well with solar panels and involves a simple installation process.
