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install solar panels on metal roof

Can you Install Solar Panels on Metal Roof?

While solar energy has become more cost-effective and an exciting sustainable, renewable energy source as time passes, we can't blame the general population for being reluctant or wanting to guarantee they can support them before investing totally in this new household or business investment.

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is, "Can I put solar panels on a metal roof?" 'After all, metal roofing is a terrific way to cover residences, newer, modern projects, and company facilities, to mention a few. Metal roofing is lightweight, sturdy, and can endure high winds while being cost-effective and requiring little maintenance.

But how do solar panels, which are recognized for their delicate nature, fare when placed as part of a metal roofing structure? Because the last thing you need is for your home to become unstable or damaged over time.

Fortunately, solar roof panels are more than acceptable for metal roof installation, and they also provide a secure, consistent, and often strengthened connective environment for permanent installation.

What you should know about Solar Panels on Metal Roofs

If you want to put solar on a metal roof, these are the top five things to think about:

  • Solar panels on a metal roof will require specific equipment and process to install.
  • Thin-film panels and regular solar panels may both be installed on solar metal roofs.
  • Metal roofs are long-lasting and can outlast solar panels.
  • Solar panels can boost a metal roof's cooling capabilities.
  • A residence with metal roofing and solar panels is more environmentally friendly.

Continue reading for a more in-depth discussion of each of these subjects.

1. Different process to install solar panels on a metal roof.

Typically, your solar installer will drill a hole on your roof so that the mounting for your solar panels can be attached. This is a major source of anxiety for many homeowners thinking about going solar since an incorrectly placed solar panel installation can create leaks or other roof difficulties. Most qualified solar contractors provide workmanship and roof warranties to ensure their consumers that the installation will go smoothly.

However, if you have a metal roof, your solar installer will most likely not need to create any holes in your roof at all, which essentially eliminates the risk of future problems. There are a few other mounting solutions that make it easier to put solar on a metal roof:

Standing seam metal roofs: Quick Mount PV and Eco fasten, two separate solar panel mount manufacturers, have devices intended exclusively for standing seam metal roofs. If you have a standing seam metal roof, your installer can join panels utilizing a clamping technique that clamps into the roof seams without the need for any holes. As an extra benefit, because your installer will not have to drill holes into the roof, this sort of racking can shorten installation timelines (and minimize your labor expenses).

Metal tile roofs: Quick Mount PV also makes a Tile Replacement Mount make it easier to install solar on tile roofs, including metal tile roofs. Tile Replacement Mount items are shaped like roof tiles and may be switched out with your current roof tiles. They not only simplify the installation procedure but also ensure that your solar system is totally waterproof because your installer is just changing tiles on your roof to place your panels.

Corrugated metal roofs: Unlike the other two forms of metal roofing, corrugated metal roofs often require considerable drilling. Because there will be actual holes in your roof to secure the racking system, waterproofing becomes a much more essential concern with these sorts of mounting solutions.

2. Thin-film panels can be used alongside regular PV panels on solar metal roofs.

The majority of solar-powered houses in the United States use normal silicon photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, however, homes with metal roofs offer another option: thin-film solar. Thin-film solar panels can only be put on particular types of roofs, and standing seam metal roofs are perfect.

While PV panels have a greater efficiency per square foot, thin-film solar panels are less visible and easier to install. They also require far less energy to produce than silicon solar cells, making them a lower-emissions renewable energy solution from the outset.

3. Metal roofs are long-lasting enough to outlive your solar panels.

Solar panels are incredibly sturdy and may last for 25 to 30 years, which is one of the reasons they are such a good investment for your house. However, in many circumstances, this implies that your solar panels will outlast your roof, resulting in an additional price. If your roof is old, you must replace it before adding solar panels, or you will suffer the additional expense of removing and reinstalling your panels when the time comes to repair your roof.

Metal roofs, on the other hand, are by far the most long-lasting traditional roofing material. If you have a metal roof on your home, it will most likely outlast the lifespan of your solar panels, saving you money and time in the long run.

4. Solar panels can help you get the most out of your metal roof's cooling benefits.

Cool metal roofing (e.g. metal roofs covered with reflective paint) is frequently promoted by home builders and contractors as a way to keep your house cool in the summer and save money on electricity. Metal roofs reflect more sunlight than black asphalt shingles, and some even have reflective paint to boost the effect. By shading the roof's surface, PV solar panels can help you save even more money on your power bill.

5. Metal roofing and solar panels work together to create an environmentally friendly house.

Metal roofing and solar panels are two of the finest methods to make your home really eco-friendly. Installing a cool metal roof can help you achieve points in green construction certification schemes such as LEED and ENERGY STAR, both of which support home renewable energy choices such as solar panels. In addition, unlike many other alternatives, solar panels and metal roofing materials are recyclable at the end of their useful life.

The Benefits of Solar Panel Installation on a Metal Roof

To summarize, installing solar panels on a metal roof is an excellent method to decrease your power expenses, save money on taxes, and lower your carbon footprint. Metal roofs have a few distinct benefits over other types of roofing.

Metal solar panel roof clamps can remove the need to drill holes in the roof during installation. In the event that penetrations are required, the brackets are intended to prevent leakage.

Metal roofs are strong and durable. They can withstand the added weight of the solar panels and may even outlast the solar panels' lifespan. This can avoid the hassles of needing to rebuild the roof while the solar panels are still operational.

Overall, solar energy might be a terrific alternative if you have a metal roof and want to lower your monthly bills or carbon footprint!

Whether you're a homeowner wanting to cut costs or a business looking to boost earnings, a solar energy system may be a valuable asset. Request your free quotation now to learn more about how solar can help you make a difference.