Can Solar Panels Be Installed on Metal Roofs?
People who already have metal roofs and people thinking of having a metal roof installed often ask this question. Both metal roofs and solar panels bring numerous benefits, but it’s reasonable to wonder if they will work efficiently together.
You’ll be glad to know they will. In fact, a solar installation on an existing metal roof can be quite advantageous to the homeowner. Here’s how.
PV panels and thin film solar are ideal for metal roofs
Most U.S. homeowners purchase traditional solar photovoltaic (PV) panels when switching to solar.
Thin film solar panels, however, are growing in popularity because of their low profile (don’t stand up off the roof) and simpler installation. Not all roofing styles will accommodate thin film panels, but certain metal roofing configurations are ideal for this application.
Your metal roof will outlast your solar panels
Metal roofs have lifespans of 40 to 50 or more years. Typical solar panels will last for 20 years and maybe as long as 30. Adding solar panels to a relatively short-life asphalt shingle roof can lead to a lot of extra hassle and expense down the line.
The reason is, the solar panels likely will outlast the roof, so when it’s time to replace the roof, the panels will have to be removed and then reinstalled.
Metal roofs are even cooler with solar
It’s widely known that the advanced coatings applied to modern metal roofing materials actually reflect the rays and heat of the sun away from your roof. This results in a noticeable difference in utility costs. But even the best metal roofs can’t reflect every bit of the rays. Having solar panels on a metal roof gives you even more cooling as the panels literally serve as a source of shade.
Compare this arrangement to solar panels on a tile or shingle roof. Yes, the panels provide some shade, but the tiles and shingles that are exposed to the sun will absorb huge amounts of heat, creating a hot cover for your home.
The ultimate eco-friendly home
If you want to take a big step toward protecting the environment, a metal roof/solar installation is a great way to do it.
- Metal roofs contain a large percentage of recycled materials. When a metal roof is finally retired, its materials can again be recycled rather than joining millions of tons of traditional roofing materials in overcrowded landfills.
- Solar energy is the cleanest form of energy you can use. By going solar, you keep from contributing to the huge amount of atmospheric toxic waste produced every day by electric generating plants.
Other metal roof benefits
Whether or not you choose to switch to solar energy, a sturdy metal roof will bring you a number of important benefits such as:
- Save the money you normally would spend having a new roof installed every 15 or so years
- Save the money you normally would spend on repairing roof leaks and roof damage
- Enjoy a roof that will hold up in violent winds of 150 mph and more
- Have a roof that keeps looking great year after year because of its resistance to rust and weather damage
- Choose from a wide variety of colors, textures and styles of metal roofing to give your home a one-of-a-kind look
Get all the information you need when considering adding a new metal roof to your home by calling the experts, Advanced Aluminum of Lakeland, FL. We produce top-line metal roofing products used by leading contractors across the Lakeland region. Call us today at (863) 648-5787.