Many homeowners choose metal roofs because they’re energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Naturally, solar panels also appeal to these homeowners. But can you put solar panels on a metal roof?
The short answer is yes, you can put solar panels on a metal roof. In fact, the longer lifespan of metal roofs makes them even more suitable for solar panel installation.
While a solar panel system will last about 25 to 30 years, a traditional asphalt shingle roof will only last up to 25 years. That means you’ll likely need to repair or replace your roof before your solar panel system has reached the end of its lifespan.
On the other hand, a professionally installed metal roof typically lasts twice as long (up to 50 years) as a traditional asphalt shingle roof. Your metal roof will outlast your solar panel system by many years, so you won’t be faced with removing and reinstalling your solar panels for roof repairs or replacement.
In this post:
- Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?
- Protecting Your Metal Roof
- Best Metal Roof for Solar
- Best Approach to Install Solar Panels on Metal Roofs
- Frequently Asked Questions
Image by schropferoval via Pixabay
Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?
Solar panels can be mounted to just about any type of roof using the right materials. The installation process and mounting gear must match the type of roof — metal or otherwise — since the roof’s structural integrity could weaken if the system is not mounted correctly.
The installation process and mounting hardware for a solar panel racking system for a metal roof may differ from what’s required for other types of roofing material.
Solar panels are mounted on a roof via clamps, ballasts, brackets with bolts, or adhesive. Metal roofs with solar panels require either brackets and bolts or clamps to hold the racking system in place, though flat, corrugated metal roofs can also handle ballasts. Solar panels outfitted with adhesive backing may be a good option for certain metal roofs.
Options to add solar panels on a metal roof are:
- Penetration: Brackets, bolts, and flashing require drilling holes in your roof to install the solar racking system. This is the most common method for putting solar panels on a roof.
- Clamps: Solar panels can be mounted on certain metal roofs with clamps, which doesn’t require drilling. This is a common method for standing seam metal roofs.
- Ballasts: Typically made from concrete, ballasts can be used on flat roofs. Therefore, they make a good mounting system for flat, corrugated metal roofs.
- Adhesive: Not widely used or accessible, thin-film solar panels with adhesive backing are also available for some metal roofs. No drilling is required; they just stick to your roof.
To learn how solar panels are attached to a metal roof, watch the video below:
Protecting Your Metal Roof
Choosing the right mounting system is the best way to protect your metal roof from potential damage.
Most standing seam metal roofs use clamps that hold the solar racking system to the metal seam. Flat, corrugated metal roofs use ballasts to weigh the racking system down. However, any metal roof can have solar panels installed via the penetration system.
Penetration mounting requires drilling holes in your roof to set the racking system in place. Any type of drilling can damage any type of roof, but proper installation decreases the risk of weakening your roof’s structure in order to avoid possible water leaks. Penetration mounting uses sealant and flashing to seal any space created from the brackets and bolts.
Best Metal Roof for Solar
The majority of metal roofs can be outfitted with solar panels when you work with a reputable contractor.
First, consider the age and condition of your roof. The metal roof best for solar is the one that doesn’t need replacing or repairing.
Other things to consider include:
- Slope and direction of your roof: Solar panels should face south for optimum performance. Panels may need to be angled more than your roof’s slope, which could require a different racking system.
- Surrounding landscape and environment: Solar only works well if the sun can easily hit your roof. Too many overhanging trees or obstacles could block the sun’s rays and decrease the panels’ output power.
- Number and weight of panels: How big is your roof? How many panels will you need? Can your roof handle the weight?
- Cost and savings: Consider what it will cost out-of-pocket to have solar panels installed on your metal roof versus the savings you’ll get from running your electricity on solar.
- State and local county laws: Look into your local ordinances regarding solar power installation, such as permits, tax credits, utility access, and contractor liability insurance.
- Maintenance and upkeep: Solar panels require little maintenance, but you’ll need to keep debris and snow off your roof for the panels to run optimally.
Best Approach to Install Solar Panels on Metal Roofs
The best approach for outfitting metal roofs with solar panels is to contact a professional. Understand what type of roof you have, research solar panel brands, and contact a good contractor specializing in solar power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to install solar panels on a metal roof?
Installing solar panels on any roof requires some work, but the difficulty level varies with the method and whether or not drilling needs to occur. Adhesive solar panels and clamp mounting systems are the easiest to install.
Disclaimer: Drilling through roofing panels may void your metal roof’s warranty. Always verify this with your contractor before taking any steps to install a solar panel system.
What type of metal roof is best for solar?
All metal roofs are ideal for solar panels, although installation differs for different types of metal roofs. The only real difference is the method used to mount the panels on your roof.
How do you attach solar panels to a metal roof?
There are four ways to attach solar panels to a metal roof:
- Penetration mounting: Good for all types of roofs.
- Clamp mounting: Ideal for standing seam metal roofs.
- Ballasted mounting: Ideal for flat roofs.
- Adhesive backing: Ideal for flat, metal roofs.
What color metal roof is best for solar panels?
White is considered the best color for reflecting solar energy.
What roofs do solar panels work on?
Technically, you could install solar panels on any type of roof. However, wood and slate roofs are not ideal for solar panels as the materials are more brittle than other roofing materials, making installation challenging. Wooden roofs may also pose a fire hazard.