Roofs have become the most common realization of solar energy supply, with many metal roof householders also considering this question:
-Can solar panels be installed on metal roofs?
-Yes, installing solar panels on metal roofs is simple and easy to realize.
Metal roofs are suitable for installing solar panels thanks to:
- Compatibility
- Load-bearing
- Mounting
Besides that, do you know what you need to pay attention to when mounting solar panels on metal roof? Are there any TIPS that can help you pick a more suitable solar panel on a metal roof? In this post, we will talk about all these, let’s take a look.
Solar panels on metal roof are perfectly compatible
Solar panels on metal roofs usually use flexible solar panels and rigid solar panels, the metal roof and solar panels can be connected in various ways, you can use clamps, brackets, bolts, and other ways of fixing, do not need to penetrate the roof, and does not affect the waterproof performance of the roof. The material and color of the metal roof can also be matched with the solar panels to maintain the aesthetics of the roof. The appearance of colored rigid solar panels even provides a perfect solution for the aesthetics of solar panels on metal roofs, which can be customized in color or pattern according to the color and pattern of the roof, which will not affect the overall appearance of your house, and better match the architectural style.
Metal roofs meet the load-bearing requirements of solar panels
Metal roofs generally have a high load-bearing capacity and can withstand the weight of the solar panels as well as wind and snow loads, providing a solid foundation for the solar panels to be installed without causing deformation or damage to the roof. The weight of solar panels is generally around 15-20 kg/square meter, which is bearable for most metal roofs. Installing flexible solar panels is even more stress-free for roofs with poor load-bearing capacity.
Mounting solar panels on metal roofs is easy and convenient
Mounting solar panels on metal roofs is relatively simple and does not require complicated construction equipment and tools, only need to operate according to the design program and installation specifications, you can complete the installation of solar panels. Metal roofs provide a smooth and even surface for the installation of solar panels. This can make the installation process easier and more efficient compared to other roofing materials. Rigid solar panels are usually designed with pre-drilled holes on the backside, and flexible solar panels leave vapor eye grommets for ease of installation, requiring only screws or rivets to hold them in place. Metal roofs also take less time to install, which saves on costs and labor.
Installing solar panels on a metal roof is good for both the solar panels and the roof
Metal roofs reflect more sunlight than traditional black asphalt shingles, which promotes an increase in the output of the solar panels, solar panels on metal roofs have a shading effect, which also reduces wind, snow, and sunlight damage, thus prolonging the roof’s lifespan. In addition, solar panels and metal roofs have a long lifespan, and their combination provides you with a durable, low-maintenance, and efficient home solar system.
6 Notes for Mounting Solar Panels on Metal Roofs
Choose the right solar panel system, and make sure the solar panel system you choose is compatible with your metal roof, special brackets or clamps may be required.
Check your roof warranty, before installing solar panels, find out what your metal roof’s warranty is to make sure the installation won’t affect your roof’s warranty.
Choose a durable metal roof, choose a metal roof that can withstand harsh weather conditions to ensure long-term reliability.
Choose the appropriate installation method according to the roof shape:
- Standing Seam Metal Roofing: Use a system that clamps onto roof gaps to avoid drilling holes in your roof.
- Corrugated metal roof: Use special brackets to fix the top of the corrugations, paying attention to waterproofing measures.
- Trapezoidal Metal Roofs: Select appropriately shaped brackets based on the height of each trapezoidal ridge.
- Flat Metal Roofs: Using a counterweight system, the angle of the solar panels can be adjusted without drilling holes in the roof.
Cooling effect and air circulation, consider the effect of solar panels on the cooling effect of a metal roof and ensure there is adequate air circulation to prevent the roof from overheating.
Environmental Considerations, metal roofs and solar panels are both eco-friendly options that reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. This is a good choice for those pursuing a greener lifestyle.
4 Tips to Choose Suitable Solar Panel On Metal Roof
You need to determine the type of metal roof
For standing seam metal roofs, you can use clamps that attach to the seams without drilling holes in the roof. If you have a metal tile roof, you can use tile replacement mounts that replace existing tiles on your roof. For corrugated metal roofs, you may need to drill holes and use sealant to prevent leaks.
You need to consider the color and material of the metal roof
The color and material can affect the energy efficiency and performance of your solar panels. Generally, lighter-colored metal roofs reflect more sunlight and heat, which can help keep your roof and your home cooler. This can also reduce the temperature of your solar panels, which can improve their efficiency and output. However, some metal roofs may have coatings or paints that can reduce their reflectivity and increase their emissivity, which means they can absorb and radiate more heat. You may want to consult with your roofing manufacturer or installer to find out the exact properties of your metal roof.
You need to decide whether you want to use rigid solar panels or thin-film solar panels on your metal roof
Rigid solar panels are more efficient and durable, but they are also heavier and bulkier. Thin-film solar panels are lighter and more flexible, but they may be less efficient and require more roof space. Thin-film solar panels can also be applied directly to the metal roof surface, which can reduce the installation cost and complexity. However, thin-film solar panels may not be compatible with all types of metal roofs, and they may have shorter warranties and lifespans than rigid solar panels.
You need to check the warranty and compatibility of your metal roof and your solar panel system
Some metal roof manufacturers may have specific requirements or limitations for installing solar panels on their products, and some may void the warranty if the installation is not done properly or by a certified installer. Similarly, some solar panel manufacturers may have specific requirements or limitations for mounting their products on metal roofs, and some may void the warranty if the mounting system is not compatible or approved. You may want to contact both your metal roof and your solar panel providers to find out the details and conditions of their warranties and compatibility.
Solar Panel On Metal Roof Cost
The cost of mounting solar panels on metal roof depends on several factors, such as the type and size of the solar system, the quality and brand of the panels, the location and orientation of the roof, and the availability of incentives and rebates.
According to information from MarketWatch：
As of 2023, the typical cost of a 6-kilowatt home solar system ranges from $16,000 to $21,000. This means you can expect to pay between $2,667 and $3,500 per kilowatt of capacity.
However, this cost can vary greatly depending on the specifics of each program. You also need to consider the following factors:
- Roof size: Determine how big your roof is so you know how many solar panels can be installed.
- Amount of Energy Required: Determine how much electricity your home or business requires daily. This can be estimated by looking at past electricity bills or using an online calculator. The unit is usually kilowatt hours (kWh).
- Efficiency of solar panels: The more efficient your solar panels are, the more electricity they will produce. The efficiency of solar panels is expressed as a percentage of their ability to convert sunlight into electricity.
Final Views
Yes, you can put solar panels on metal roof.
After learning about the do’s and don’ts of metal roof solar panel installation and solar panel selection tips, do you have a clearer understanding of installing a solar system on a metal roof?
Sungold Solar is a leading manufacturer of off-grid solar panels. With a wide range of products and a full range of solar on metal roof, whether you are looking for durable and sturdy rigid solar panels or adaptable and lightweight flexible solar panels, at Sungold you will find the answers to create inspiring design solutions. In the previous article, we mentioned choosing the right solar panel according to the color of the roof, and Sungold has launched the SGD series of colored solar panels that can be matched with a wide range of colorful metal roofs, which can bring aesthetic enjoyment to your householder in addition to green energy.
