How to Make a Metal Roof Work for Solar Panels
With rising energy costs and climate change top of mind, many homeowners are installing solar panels. Solar energy helps reduce your environmental impact and electricity bills. But what if you have a metal roof? Can solar panels still be an option?
The good news is metal roofs and solar panels can absolutely work together. While metal roofing and solar panels may seem like an unexpected match, they actually complement each other quite well. When properly installed, solar panels integrate seamlessly with metal roofing. The sleek, modern look of a metal roof can pair beautifully with high-tech solar panels.
Benefits of Adding Solar Panels to a Metal Roof
Installing solar panels on your metal roof provides all the same benefits solar brings to any home, plus a few additional perks:
- Reduce electricity bills by harnessing solar energy
- Lower your carbon footprint with a renewable power source
- Increase the value of your home - solar metal roofs boost value even more than solar alone
- Minimal maintenance required for durable metal and solar combo
- Aesthetic appeal from the blend of modern metal roofing and technology
While metal roofing can last 25-50 years, solar panels typically need replacement every 25-30 years. This means homeowners may need to replace solar panels over the lifetime of their metal roof. Proper installation and regular maintenance helps ensure both roof and solar last as long as possible.
Types of Metal Roofing for Solar Panels
While solar panels can go on nearly any type of roof, some metal roofing materials are better suited for solar installation than others. The key is finding a metal roofing system that allows secure attachment of solar mounting equipment.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing is one of the best options for solar panels. This type features vertical seams between long interlocking metal panels. The seams make it easy to clamp mounting equipment for solar without penetrating the roof. Standing seam metal roofing comes in materials like steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum.
Standing seam allows thin-film solar laminates to adhere directly to the metal surface. Or panel mounts can attach to the vertical seams without drilling. This straightforward solar installation makes standing seam metal roofing a top choice.
Corrugated Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal roofing has a distinctive ridged, wavy pattern. Materials like galvanized steel or aluminum are bent into corrugated sheets. While corrugated metal roofing can work for solar with some modifications, it presents a few challenges.
The wavy design leaves fewer flat areas for solar mounting. Roof attachments usually need to be drilled and bolted through the corrugated panels. Corrugated metal is also prone to oil-canning, or slight buckling. Proper flashing and sealing during solar installation is crucial to prevent leaks.
Copper, Aluminum, and Coated Steel Roofing
Other metal roofing options like copper, raw aluminum, or coated steel panels can support solar panels. But the install process is typically more complex than with standing seam metal. These generally require penetrating mounts bolted firmly into roof decking.
It's important to consult a solar installer who understands the nuances of installing and waterproofing solar on these specific metal roof types. Don't try to DIY solar on any metal roof without professional guidance.
Mounting Solar Panels on a Metal Roof
Installing solar panel mounting equipment on a metal roof differs from installation on shingled or tiled roofs. Special methods and hardware allow attachment without damaging the structural integrity or weather-tightness of the metal roof.
Rails
For standing seam metal roofs, L-feet or tile hooks can attach solar mounting rails between seams without penetrating the panels. The rails run parallel to the seam direction. Solar panels then mount securely to the rails.
Clamps
Specially designed clamps secure solar mounting equipment along standing seams or around the edges of metal roof panels. Options like seam clamps, ridge clamps, and edge clamps keep solar infrastructure firmly in place.
Adhesives
On standing seam metal roofs, thin-film solar laminates can stick directly to the panels using strong adhesives. This simplifies installation. Laminates flex and conform over any seams or changes in angle.
Flashing and Lag Bolts
For flat paneled or corrugated metal roofs, solar mounts often must drill through and bolt directly to the roof decking below. Flashing and sealants prevent moisture intrusion where bolts meet the roof. Lag bolts securely anchor solar infrastructure despite the metal roof's tendency to expand and contract.
Proper metal roof attachment methods maintain the roof warranty. Always have roofing manufacturer approved solar mounting solutions installed by qualified professionals.
Impact on Home Value and Curb Appeal
Beyond providing sustainable power, solar panels on a metal roof can significantly up your home's curb appeal and resale value. Research shows homes with solar systems sell for around $17,000 more than comparable non-solar homes.
Metal roofs alone also boost home value thanks to their striking visual appeal and longevity. Combine these two ultra-sleek home upgrades together, and the boost is even more substantial. Solar takes the modern style of metal to the next level.
During the day, cleanly integrated solar panels look like a natural extension of the metal roofing. At dusk, solar panels emanate a soft glow from residual sunlight. This unique architectural element intrigues potential buyers and neighbors.
Durability Considerations for Metal Roofing and Solar Panels
One key question for homeowners is how the lifespans of solar panels and metal roofs compare. Which system will need replacement first?
Quality metal roofing typically lasts 25-50 years. On the other hand, solar panels can usually operate efficiently for around 25-30 years before needing an upgrade. This means solar panels will likely require a refresh over the lifetime of your longer-lasting metal roof.
When installed properly, solar panels do not affect the waterproofing or protective abilities of the metal roof itself. With periodic solar panel replacement and maintenance as needed, you can keep both roof and solar in top condition.
Is a Metal Roof Right for Solar at Your Home?
While metal and solar make a great team, determining if they are the right fit depends on your specific home and needs. Before deciding, ask yourself:
- What is my current roofing material and condition?
- What is my monthly energy usage and expenditure?
- Am I committed to maintaining solar panels when needed?
- Do I plan to stay in this home long term?
If you have an aging roof that needs replacement soon, installing metal roofing and solar panels together can be a worthwhile investment in your home's future. For maximum return on investment, plan to stay in your home as long as possible after installing solar.
Combining solar power and metal roofing requires diligent planning, smart material selection, and proper installation. Consult qualified solar professionals and roofers experienced specifically with metal roofing.
Be sure your roofing type can handle the load and attachment requirements for solar panels. Always comply with the manufacturer's warranty specifications. With expert help, you can successfully outfit your metal roof with solar for sustainable energy production and serious aesthetic appeal.