Can You Install Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?

Following the negative impact the solar system has had on insurance returns in recent decades, homeowners are increasingly shifting from roofing shingles to metal roofs—with lower premiums. While that remains a huge milestone, most wonder if the new metal roof can support their old solar panels. If you are uncertain, it is advisable to talk to a contractor you know or consider Wegner Roofing & Solar for your metal roofing project—they will undertake the installation themselves or recommend someone qualified. 

Solar panels are becoming the popular power source (renewable

energy) in other regions. Recent stats show that Americans harness more than 10.6 gigawatts(solar energy). Many homeowners perceive solar energy as relatively cheaper and cleaner, as most continuously reconsider their electricity options.

However, Most contractors seemingly can’t relate solar systems to the new and trending metal roofing. Though metal roofs are rising in popularity, they haven’t superseded their predecessors–shingles roofs.

To the question, our experts give a resounding ‘yes.’ You can install solar panels on your metal roof. If your contractor advises the contrary, seek help from another contractor. Most solar installers are yet conversant with metal roofs, and the majority will decline quoting the job. But you may find qualified solar panels installers for metal roofs near you that know the project’s ins and outs. 

Solar System and the Metal Roofing

Here are facts you should know about Self Solar Installation on your metal roof:

Mounting is Relatively Easy 

Obviously, before installing, your installer must drill mounting holes on your roof to provide points of attachment. For this reason, most homeowners develop cold feet, knowing the drilled holes may induce leaking in rainy seasons—especially if the solar mounting is done poorly. But for the same reason, your installer offers warranties to boost your confidence in their quality. Warranties ascertain that nothing will likely go wrong after installation.

Unlike the old fashion, you won’t worry about follow-up issues on the project. But with metal roofing, there are alternatives to drilling that ease the mounting process. These installation alternatives work depending on your roof type. 

For example, if your roof is a standing seam, your installer will clamp mounting systems to the roof seams, bypassing the need for drilling holes. In addition, installation time is considerably reduced, cutting labor costs. 

The installer will use a tile replacement mount on a metal tile roof shaped like roof tiles so that tile replacement mounts can take the place of existing roof tiles. This approach retains your roof integrity, ensuring things remain watertight.

Lastly, some metal roofs are corrugated. That’s contrary to the first two—metal tiles roof and standing seams. In that case, your installer may use a unique approach during mounting, though the solar installation on these roofs often requires a bit of drilling. Given the drilled holes, waterproofing is a viable concern to protect the underlying unit.

Metal Roofs can Hold both the Standard PV and the Thin Film Solar Panels. 

Most homeowners across America use standard PV as opposed to the thin film. However, you can install thin film as an extra option if your roof is metal. Still, the thin film mounts best on roof types like standing seam metal roofs. Compared to their standard PV counterparts, thin-film solar panels are easier to install, though lower efficiency. In addition, they consume less energy during manufacturing than PV panels, minimizing their emission in renewable energy capacity.

Metal Roofs Outlasts Solar Panels 

Swapping out an old roof with a new one before installing your solar panels reduces costly future installation. That’s because solar panels last longer than conventional shingle roofs. Therefore, when roofing with new shingles, you have to uninstall your panels then reinstall them. 

But though solar panels are relatively durable( with a lifespan of about 25 years), they hardly outlive metal roofs. Traditionally, metal roofs are designed to last for decades —with the most durable materials available.

Metal Roofings Provide Extra Cooling Benefits when Merged with Solar Panels 

Contractors and home-builders occasionally talk about metal roofs’ cooling benefits ( features like reflective paints coating). Such features regulate excessive heating in summer and cut energy costs.

But if you compare their energy efficiency, metal roofs reflect more heat than asphalt shingles. Additionally, coating with reflective paint can further boost this effect. Contractors also incorporate PV solar panels to maximize this effect. These panels induce a shielding effect by sitting on top of your metal roof. In the process, they save you more on electrical bills.