Compatibility of Solar Panels with Metal Roof Panels

If you’re planning to invest in solar panels, then you’ll want to make sure that your roof provides the proper support. Metal roofing is an excellent choice when it comes to solar compatibility because of its strength, longevity, and energy efficiency. The combination of metal roof panels and solar panels can provide a great deal of energy savings with minimal maintenance requirements.

Are Steel Roofs & Solar Panels Compatible?

Solar panel compatibility is the ability of a roof to support solar energy systems. When choosing a roof for the installation of a solar panel system, it’s important to consider the roof’s structural integrity, durability, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.

Steel roofs are an excellent option for solar panel compatibility as they provide superior structural integrity to support heavy loads and superior durability to withstand harsh weathering conditions. As a result, they can support the weight of the solar array, panels, mounting racks, and any other associated hardware.

Why is Metal Roofing Better for Solar Installation Than Asphalt Shingles?

When it comes to solar compatibility, no other type of roofing material surpasses metal roofing, including asphalt shingles. Metal roofing provides superior solar compatibility compared to asphalt shingle roofs for several reasons. First of all, metal roofing is lighter than asphalt shingles, so they don’t add additional weight to the roof. Additionally, metal roofs are far more durable than asphalt shingles and can withstand extreme temperatures and weathering conditions.

Finally, metal roofs simply last longer. Asphalt shingle roofs often need to be replaced every 12 years or so. This can be an issue since it means you’ll have to remove the solar system and reinstall it on a new roof. In comparison, metal roofs can last for 40 years or more without needing to be replaced.

How are Solar Panels Typically Mounted?

When it comes to mounting on a metal roof, there are lots of options. However, three of the most common include railed, rail-less, and shared rail. In rail-mounted systems, the mounting rails are initially attached to the roof directly, and then the solar modules are attached to them.

Rail-less systems use special bracketing to secure the solar modules directly to the roof without needing any additional mounting rails. Finally, shared rail systems use the same mounting rails for both solar and non-solar modules. This is ideal for situations where not all of the roof surface is dedicated to solar modules.

Installing Solar Panels on a Metal Roof

First of all, it can’t be stressed enough that it’s best to have a professional installer do the job, as it requires specialized tools and knowledge. With that in mind, the following are two crucial tips that should be considered when installing solar panels on a metal roof.

• Use a Solar Mounting System: The use of a mounting system is recommended to ensure the secure attachment of solar panels while also preventing damage to the roof and making it easier to remove the solar panels down the road.
• Consider Thin-Film Solar Panels: Thin-film solar panels are ideal for metal roof installations, as they can be more easily bonded to the roof’s surface. They’re also lighter than other types of solar panels and are more tolerant of extreme temperature fluctuations.

Benefits of Installing Solar Panels

The following are a few of the reasons why you should consider installing solar panels on a metal roof:

• Durability: Metal roofs are known for their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions as well as regular wear and tear. This makes them an ideal roofing material for solar panel installation since you won’t have to worry about having to repair or replace your roof in the near future.
• Sustainability: If you’re using solar panels, then odds are you’re looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly. As such, metal roofing is a great option since steel is highly recyclable, which means that it can be reused when you finally do need to replace your metal roof.
• Cost Savings: You’ll save money over the long term since you won’t have to replace or repair a metal roof nearly as often as other types of roofs. It will also reduce your roof installation costs since you won’t have to remove the solar panels to replace the metal roof.
• Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs are incredibly energy efficient, and when combined with solar panels, you can achieve substantial energy savings.
• Easier Installation: Installing solar panels on a metal roof is typically easier since the base of the metal roof is usually flat and smooth. This can help to reduce labour costs as a result.
• High Return on Investment: The combination of energy savings and potential tax benefits makes installing solar panels on a metal roof a great investment.

FAQs

What are the best solar panels for a metal roof?

Crystalline panels with thin-film solar are typically the best choice for metal roofs because the hardware can simply clamp to the roof without the need for penetrations, making installation much easier and more secure.

What is the life expectancy of solar panels on a metal roof?

Solar panels last between 2 and 3 decades, depending on the type of panels and how well they are maintained. The underlying metal roof can last even longer, making metal roofs an excellent long-term investment for solar panel systems.

What type of roof can solar panels not be installed on?

Wood roofs are not ideal because they are a fire hazard and not typically strong enough to support the weight of a large solar array.

Tap Into the Advantages of Our Tuscany Metal Roof Panels

At Ironclad Roofing, we specialize in providing the highest quality metal roof systems. Our Tuscany Metal Roof Panels are designed with maximum protection in mind and are perfect for solar panel installations. They provide superior durability, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. For more information about our metal roof panels, contact us online at Ironclad Roofing or call us at 905-752-4685.