Jul 15, 2022

A Guide to Metal Roofing and Solar Panels

Many people today are interested in how they can benefit from solar energy. Homeowners that decide to install solar panels can take advantage of energy savings and the federal solar tax credit. When homeowners are purchasing a new metal roofing system, they often ask us if solar panels can be installed on their new metal roof. The answer is, yes, solar panels can be installed on a metal roof. Continue reading as we’ll discuss how solar panels can be successfully integrated with metal roofing.

Will Solar Panels Damage a Metal Roof?

When people are considering solar and are installing a metal roof, one of their first concerns is whether or not the solar panel installation will damage their roof. The type of metal roofing system that you have will determine the type of solar panel installation that you need. Keep reading to discover more about installing solar panels on a metal roof.

Standing Seam Metal Roofs and Solar Panels

Out of all of the types of metal roofs, standing seam metal roofs are one of the most compatible with solar panels. When solar panels are installed on a standing seam metal roof, no holes need to be made in the roof to secure the panels! Solar mounting systems are used to attached solar panels to metal roofs without altering the roof in any way. Your manufacturer’s warranty will not be voided because no damage is done to the roofing system.

The vertical ribs located at the panel edges of standing seam metal panels can support a solar mounting system that can be attached without making any penetrations in the roof. This is very important because any penetrations in a metal roof’s surface compromises its weathertightness. Aside from making the roof susceptible to leaks, penetrations in its surface can also decrease the lifespan of the metal roof.

Corrugated Metal Roofs and Solar Panels

A corrugated metal roofing system relies on an exposed fastener system. The metal panels are attached to the substrate with fasteners that penetrate the metal panels. If you have this type of metal roofing system for your home, you can still benefit from everything that solar panels have to offer. The solar panels are attached to corrugated metal panels with mounting brackets. The brackets themselves are attached directly to the corrugated metal panels with fasteners that penetrate the panels.

How Long Will a Metal Roof with Solar Panels Last?

The inherent longevity of a metal roofing system is exactly what makes it a great choice for solar panels! Your roof may very well outlast your solar panels, which is important because you won’t have to worry about removing and reinstalling your roof after the solar panels need replacing.

Solar Panel Mounting Systems for Metal Roofs

Depending on the type of roofing system you have, you may need a particular type of solar panel mounting system and it’s important to note that there are different mounting system options. Some mounting systems are designed to withstand severe conditions, others for simple installation. Some mounting systems are designed specifically to be budget friendly as their easier installation can reduce labor costs. Usually these are pre-assembled so several steps in the installation process are eliminated. And of course, there are solar panel mounting systems specifically for corrugated metal roofs and exposed fastener metal roofing where the bracket itself is a pedestal for rail-mounted solar mounting systems.

What Type of Metal Roof Works Best with Solar?

There are choices you can make while choosing your metal roof that will optimize your solar panels, making them more efficient. When you install a new metal roofing system, the color you choose can maximize the energy and cost saving benefits of your roof. Lighter colors work best, bringing you the most energy savings. This is because dark colors absorb more heat. Lighter colors effectively reflect the sun’s UV rays and heat. A light colored metal roof’s solar reflectivity assists in keeping the roof from intense heat exposure, which in turn lightens the load on your AC system.

Metal Roofing Companies

At Gravity Metal Roofing, we can help you with all of your metal roofing needs. If you have any questions about installing solar panels on metal roofing systems feel free to give us a call at (844) 352-7663!