Can I Install Solar Panels On Metal Roof
To answer this question, yes you can install solar panels on a metal roof. You can either lay down your solar panels directly on your metal roof using mounting rails or you can design custom frame to mount your solar panels to a specific angle and to face a specific direction.
The power generated from solar panels will depend on the pitch of your roof and the orientation of your roof.
The power generation of solar panels depends on the angle and direction of orientation. For maximum power generation, if you like in northern hemisphere, your solar panels should face towards south and if you live in southern hemisphere your solar panels should face towards north.
Hence, if you have a two face slope roof like north south slope or east west then one side in case of north south and two sides in case of east west will produce less power than it should.
If you have a east west roof and you directly lay down your solar panels then power generation will be sacrificed but the overall cost of installation will be less since no custom structure will be required .
But if you decide to orient your solar panels to the best direction and the best angle needed for your east-west roof, then overall power generation will increase but so will the overall cost of solar installation.
In most cases you dont have to worry about the angle of installation but the direction in which your solar panels face is important.
Metal Roofs Are No Problem For Solar Installations
By Kelly Pickerel | March 1, 2018
For solar installers most familiar with comp shingle or tile roofs, encountering a metal roof can be challenging. Besides just the many different types of metal, there are also different metal roofing systems. If the structure has a standing seam roof, solar installation is somewhat easier. Panel mounts clamp to the seam without penetrations. Trapezoidal and corrugated metal roofs, though, often require a direct attachment to the roofing structure. Flashing cant be slid underneath, so waterproofing is especially important.
The profile of a corrugated roof is not strong enough to support the mounting system, so the roof attachments are required to penetrate the roof material and attach to the structural member, said Cody Norman, senior applications engineer with SnapNrack Solar Mounting Solutions.
SnapNracks Corrugated Straddle Block can be used on sinusoidal corrugated and trapezoidal metal roofs
To further complicate things, there are several variations of metal roofs. For example, sinusoidal corrugated roofings ridges and grooves are closer together, in a consistent wave-like pattern. Trapezoidal roofing has more flat space in between peaks. The type of metal roof will affect the type of solar mounting system needed for a successful install.
Each mounting manufacturer has a different design and way to attach to sinusoidal corrugated roofs.
The Solar Connections Corrugated PowerMount
About The Author
Kelly Pickerel
Metal Roofs And Solar Panels Pair Well Together
Metal roofs are great for solar, because they last a very long time. If its time to replace your roof before you can go solar, you may consider investing in a metal roof install as well.
Metal roofs can last up to 70 years, whereas asphalt composite shingles are expected to last just 15-20 years. Most solar panel installations are guaranteed to last 25 years, but systems will be producing at strong capacity well beyond that.
When it becomes time to invest in new panels, say 30-35 years from now, you can simply swap the panels out without having to mount brackets and rails. This can potentially save you a lot of time and expense much further down the road if youre planning on staying in your home a long time.
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Installing Solar Panels On Metal Roof Is Possible
As you can see, both of these methods to install solar on metal roof shingles require installers to cut, seal, and otherwise finagle the solar attachment points, shingles, and flashings to be both structurally sound and waterproof. In comparison, attaching solar panels to vertical seam metal roofs is fairly straightforward.
No matter what though, if you have a metal roof, there is always a way to install solar panels!
Have you installed solar on your metal roof? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
Image Credits under CC License via Pixabay& Flickr 2, 3.
How Are Solar Panels Installed On Metal Roof
Well this depends on the type of metal roof you are having, in India most houses and factories have corrugated metal roof.
For corrugated metal roof mounting rails are revited to the roof and then solar panels are mounted on it using end clamps and mid clamps.
If you have a metal roof other than corrugated metal roof you then I dont have much idea about it since I have not seen any other metal roof which has solar on it, but anyways I feel you will find mounting structure for almost any type of roof.
Key here is not the mounting structure but the installer. If the installer has worked on similar projects before, then he will find a way to install solar panels on almost any roof.
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What Happens If You Need A New Roof
If you need to replace your roof after you have solar panels installed, you will need to remove and reinstall the solar panels.
Your solar installer should take a look at your roof before beginning the project to ensure its in good shape. If you need a new roof, youll want to get that out of the way before installing the solar panels.
While a new roof is never something we get excited about buying, your future self will thank you. If you need a new roof or repairs to the roof that need to be made, your solar panels will have to be removed and reinstalled. This should cost less than the actual installation itself but is best to be avoided if possible.
Why Metal Roofing Installation Is Perfect For Solar Panel Installation
Solar panels can be installed on most roofs. However, if you ask us, metal roofing is without a doubt the easiest to work with.
Metal roofing has several qualities and traits that make it more appropriate for solar panel installation.
The big one is installation.
Like we mention above, solar panel installation requires a lot of extra drilling, either to attach solar panels or mountings.
With tile roofs, you cant drill directly into tiles not only can this cause tiles to crack, but its also less stable due to the way tiles are attached to your roof.
To attach solar panels to tiles, individual tiles need to be removed and panels attached to the roof frame, with gaps cut into the tile to go around the panel.
Metal roofing doesnt have to contend with these problems.
Solar panels can be drilled directly into metal roofs without the need to worry about cracking or breaking.
All your solar installer needs to do is find a section of metal roof with a timber rafter underneath and drill. The area is sealed with a waterproof coat.
This saves a lot of effort and work. Not only does this dramatically speed up installation, but it saves you money too!
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Slate And Concrete Tile Roofs
Much like clay tiles, both slate and concrete tiles are usually removed and replaced during the solar panel installation process. In some cases, installers will drill through the tiles themselves, but its more common to remove the tiles and replace them with a mounting foot and flashing because of the brittleness of slate and concrete.
Solar Panel Clamps For Standing Seam Roofs
A standing seam metal roof is made of individual metal panels that are connected together with a crimped connection that stands vertical to the roof surface. This âstanding seamâ provides a handy mount point for solar racking.
Every manufacturer of solar racking will have a different design, but with a standing seam roof you can have a clamp that securely grips the seam without penetrating it. This is a great design because it means that you donât have to worry about permanently modifying the roof and creating entry points for moisture.
Hereâs an example of a clamp from the company S-5! . S-5! clamp for standing seam metal roofs
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Standing Seam Metal Roof
Solar Panels Installed on Standing Seam Metal Roof
This roof type consists of a series of flat, broad metal panels that are crimped together to form a continuous, concealed join. There is a vertical leg between each one this is the raised seam.
Not only is this type of roof lightweight and durable, when installed in sequence with the recommended underlayment, it is also watertight.
It’s almost as if metal standing seam roofs are specifically designed with solar panels in mind.
The installer attaches a series of high-strength aluminum clamps to the vertical legs with a single bolt. The mounting rail secures into place with no need to drill any holes into the roof. With no perforations in the metal, it remains watertight people with asphalt shingles have to check and maintain theirs annually.
Installing a solar array on a seamed roof is simpler and far-less labor-intensive, and therefore, more affordable.
The clamps and bolts are often covered by several-year warranties, although most owners claim they outlive their solar panels.
Benefits Of Having Solar Panels
Purchasing and installing solar panels isnt a small task. Homeowners can expect to spend several thousand dollars on upgrading their homes with solar power sources.
But the benefits of having solar panels far outweigh the initial costs, especially over time. Some of the most notable of these benefits include:
- Reduced electricity bills each month
- Less dependence on the local power company
- Increased property value
Additionally, if your home creates more energy than it consumes, the local power company may end up owing you money! As such, choosing to switch to solar energy is often financially and ecologically beneficial.
Even if you plan on moving out of your current home within the next several years, you may want to consider installing solar panels. Thats because solar power can significantly increase a homes overall value.
You may also be able to take advantage of solar energy incentives and rebates. Occasionally, homeowners see a complete financial return on their solar investments thanks to these helpful programs.
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Can You Install Solar Panels On A Metal Roof
As fires and extreme weather have wreaked havoc on insurance company profit margins over the last decade, more and more homeowners are trading asphalt shingles for metal roofs and lower premiums. Thats fantastic, but it leaves some wondering if they can still install rooftop solar on their metal shingles.
While metal roofs are becoming more popular, theyre still far less common than asphalt shingles, and many contractors arent that familiar with either the roofs or solar panels, let alone how to marry the two.
But the answer is a resounding yes you can absolutely install solar panels on a metal roof. If a contractor tells you it cant be done or that it cant be done without risking the integrity of your roof, talk to a different contractor.
Not all solar installers are experts with metal roofs and some wont even quote the job. But if you have a metal roof, its likely there is an installer in your community who understands metal roof solar installations or who works with a roofer who knows what to do.
There are several different types of metal roofs. And installation works differently with each style.
Most residential metal roofs today use metal shingles. Theyre sturdy and attractive. These are the roofs that tend to perplex contractors most when they think of installing solar panels.
For those metal roofs that dont use underpans, the racking hardware can be installed in a flashing sandwich with shingles below and above.
What Is The Best Type Of Roof For Installing Solar
Technically speaking you can install solar panels on any roof. The distinguishing factor that makes some roofs a poor choice is the extra expense incurred as the degree of difficulty in installation increases.
Wood shake roof is deemed a fire hazard in some jurisdictions however once you procure the permission you will need to use flashing to enable solar panel mounting. Drill the flashing deep into the wood shake and place a watertight seal.
Asphalt composite shingles call for attention in installation to avoid voiding roofing warranty by using unauthorized sealant by the manufacturer. You also need to use flashing that has a raised platform so that the area where the penetration occurs will divert water. The thickness of the shingle also plays a part in determining the best way to use the flashing to avoid poor drainage.
Clay or stone tile roofs are arguably the hardest to install solar panels on. The primary reason for the difficulty is that the tiles first need to be removed to install the flashing and mounts. Once this is done, the tiles then have to be cut so that they dont get in contact with the mounting gear. All this extra work makes for a costly and challenging installation.
On the other hand, a standing-seam metal roof is the easiest type of roof to install solar panels on as you install clamps on the seams to set the base for the racking that will hold up the solar panels.
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The Benefits Of Installing Solar Panels On A Metal Roof
Jul 14, 2021 | Conserve Energy, Efficiencies, Home Solar |
Metal roofs and solar panels make the perfect match. When it comes to ease of installation, durability, environmental benefits and cost savings, solar arrays installed on metal roofs can provide home owners excellent benefits.
Metal roofs are usually made of light, long-lasting materials. After they wear out, homeowners can recycle most metal roofs, making them an excellent choice for those searching for an eco-friendly alternative to standard asphalt roof shingles. Also metal roofs can better withstand severe weather like hail, heavy rain, snow and high winds. Metal roofs have also been credited for protecting homes during forest and brush fires. In some cases that can lead to a reduction in your homeowners insurance premiums. Also metal roofs have a much longer expected life span than traditional asphalt shingles, lasting in some cases more than 60 years.
Solar panels and metal roofs share one very important feature: energy savings. As energy rates continue to rise, many homeowners look for solutions to lower their electricity usage. Reflective metal roofing can save homeowners an average of 40% on their summer electricity bills by reducing attack air temperatures by as much as 12 degrees Fahrenheit. Much like solar panels, metal roofs are an environmentally friendly, maintenance-free, and cost-saving addition to any home.
If you would like to know more about solar power for your home or business, contact us here.
The Pros And Cons Of Solar Tubes
If you want to enjoy more natural light in your home, but find skylights too big, expensive or hard to maintain, solar tubes offer a simple alternative. Also known as tubular skylights or sun tunnels, solar tubes give you an unobtrusive way to brighten the darker areas of your home with soft, natural light.
The standard solar tube is a tube of polished sheet metal installed in the roof to channel sunlight into the houses interior. Theyre most commonly available in 10- and 14-inch-diameter sizes, which fit between standard 16-inch roof joists. On the roof end of the tube is a weather-resistant acrylic cap. On the ceiling side is a round window-like opening fit with a diffuser that helps distribute the light evenly.
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How Do I Choose The Solar Mounting System For My Project
Weve put together a series of questions in five categories to help evaluate whether your project would be best suited for railed or rail-less solar mounting. the quick guide version to use on your next project.
Interested in a specific category? Jump to the one you want to read first by clicking below.
How To Install Solar Panels On A Metal Roof
If youve never had solar panels installed on a home before, the process can seem a little overwhelming. However, solar panel installation typically consists of four steps:
Lets explore each of these steps a little more deeply to discover how this process works. That way, you can feel more confident about your future solar panel installation.
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Can You Put Solar Panels On A Metal Roof
Installing solar panels on a metal roof is a straightforward process. Installation technicians can attach mounting hardware along the seams of the roof for superior strength and UV absorption.
But no matter what type of roof your home has, switching to solar power can help reduce your monthly utility bills and increase the value of your home. Going solar has never been more accessible or more affordable!
Are you interested in learning more about residential solar panel installation? If so, please contact us today for more information!
Installing Solar On Standing Seam Metal Roofs
If youre lucky enough to have a metal standing seam roof, there are solar panel mounting systems available which clamp onto the seams. In this way, no holes need to be drilled into your roof. Your solar installation will be faster, labor reduced, and you dont need to worry about your roof being penetrated and water getting in.
The clamps are made from high strength aluminum and use a single bolt to secure the clamp. Most come with at least a 10 year warranty, but should easily outlast the life of your solar system.
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