In recent years, the popularity of solar panels on metal roofs has increased dramatically. There are several points for this, including the fact that homeowners are increasingly interested in renewable energy sources, solar panels require less maintenance than other roofing materials, and they can actually improve the durability of the roof.
Solar panels are made up of solar cells that work by converting sunlight into electricity efficiently. In fact, a single array of PV panels can generate enough electricity to power an entire home.
This is why people and businesses anywhere there’s sun are increasingly interested in solar panels, as they can use them to reduce their energy costs. Did you know solar energy in the United States has exploded over the past decade?
According to energy star, in 2010, 667 megawatt (MW) were installed in homes, and in 2020, this has increased by 27 times to over 18,061 MW. If you are one of those who are planning to install a solar system on your roof, you bumped into the right article! In this article you will learn:
What Are the Types of Metal Roofs and Which One Suits You Best
What are the main accessories needed for solar panel installation on a metal roof
What color metal roof is best for solar panels
What are the advantages of having solar panels on metal roof
What Are the Types of Metal Roofs and Which One Suits You Best?
There are several types of metal roofs that can be used along with a solar panel system:
Corrugated Metal Roof
These roofs have raised panels that create a “wave-like” appearance. They are durable and efficient, making them a popular choice for solar panels.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
These roofs have long, vertical panels that are joined together at the seams. They are very strong and resistant to wind and hail damage, making them an ideal choice for areas with severe weather.
Metal Tile Roof
These roofs are made of interlocking metal tiles. They are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for solar panels.
Metal Shingle Roofs
These roofs are made of interlocking metal shingles. They are easy to install and provide a clean, finished look.
Metal Shake Roof
These roofs are made of interlocking metal shingles that create a “shake” effect. They are very easy to install and provide a pretty unique look.
So, Which Metal Roof Type Is Best for Solar Panel Installation?
The answer really depends on the specific case application and on the specific needs of the home or business. For example, if the goal is to maximize solar energy production, then a standing seam roof would be the better choice because it allows for more sunlight exposure.
However, if one’s goal is to minimize cost, then a corrugated roof would be the better choice because it is typically less expensive to install. In general, all metal roofs are proven to have a longer life expectancy than your solar panel.
What Color Metal Roof Is Best for Solar Panels?
A metal roof can be a very energy efficient choice for your home. It can help to reflect heat away from the surface of your home, keeping it cooler in the summer. Metal roofs are also very durable and can last for many years.
When choosing a color for your metal roof, it is important to consider what color will be best for solar panel installation. A light colored roof will reflect more sunlight and help to keep your home cooler. A dark colored roof will absorb more heat and may make your home warmer.
The Main Accessories Needed for Solar Panel Installation on a Metal Roof
1. Mounting brackets/straddle blocks, and fasteners: These are used to secure the solar panels to the roof or to its racking system. Fasteners are an important part of any metal roof. There are a variety of fasteners available, and the type that you choose will depend on the type of roof that you have. Metal roofing screws are the most common type of fastener used on corrugated roofs. Sealing washers or rubber grommets are typically used on standing seam roofs to prevent leaks. Clamps are another important part of a metal roof. They are used to secure the panels to the roof deck and to keep the panels from shifting. Brackets are also used to support the panels and to keep them from moving.
2. Electrical cable: This is used to connect the solar panels to the inverter.
3. Grounding rod: This is used to provide a safe electrical connection to the ground.
4. Inverter: This converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used by your home or business.
5. Silicon: The silicon will help the installers to tightly seal around the holes, in a way preventing water penetration issues and adding ease as they mount the solar panels on the metal roof.
What Are the Advantages of Having Solar Panels on Metal Roofs?
Metal roofs are an excellent choice for solar panels, as they are extremely durable and weather-resistant. They are also reflective, which helps to keep the solar panels cooler, allowing them to operate with higher efficiency.
Solar panel systems on a metal roof can last up to twice as long as those on a traditional kind of roof like asphalt shingles. Installing solar panels on a metal roof can also help to reduce your energy costs for house and commercial buildings.
Solar panels generate electricity during the day, when energy demand is typically highest. If there’s a strong net metering system in your area, this can help to offset the cost of energy that would otherwise be sourced from the grid.
In addition, any excess electricity that is generated can be sold back to the utility company, providing you with an additional option as a source of income. Overall, solar panels offer a number of advantages for both businesses and homeowners.
They are considered a green solution using renewable energy, have little or no emissions which are good for the environment, and can be installed on a variety of different roof types. Metal roofs are an excellent choice for solar panels, as they are durable, weather-resistant, and reflective.
Installing solar panels on a metal roof can also help to reduce your energy costs and provide you with an additional source of income.
The Next Step
Now that you know the many benefits of mounting solar panels on a metal roof, it’s time to take the next step and find a qualified installer. With so many products and contractors in this industry, it’s important to do your research to find the best option for your home or business.
Be sure to ask about the possible amount in expense for this investment, any tax credit benefit, rebate, or some government incentives that may be available, the building or LEED requirements, as well as the warranty on the products and installation method.
With a little bit of effort, you can make a solar panel system work for every need, providing clean, renewable energy for years to come.
