Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?

The roof is the perfect place to install solar panels. Its advantageous position gives them full access to the sun with minimal hindrances. However, it is a good idea to consider if the roof material can withstand the weight of the panels.

The most common roofing in the country is the asphalt roof, which is compatible with solar panels.

But what about metal roofs?

In this article, let’s answer the question: can you put solar panels on a metal roof and explore the different types of metal roofing, their lifespan, and guide when installing them?

Let’s begin with the most important question…

Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?

The answer is yes, you can have solar panels on your metal roofs.

In fact, they are highly recommended by solar installers and roofing contractors when installing solar panels. This is because they can easily support the panels and their accompanying hardware despite the heavy weight because of their strength and durability.

In addition, metal roofs can last longer with proper maintenance compared to their popular counterpart, asphalt roofs even when the latter is regularly maintained. The average lifespan of this type of roof can last from fifteen to thirty years while metal can go between forty to seventy years.

Other factors can be at play in the lifespan of these materials. Still, the asphalt roofs' shorter life cycle shows how expensive it can be when it comes to the frequency of its maintenance. Once the need to change them arises, one has to take the solar panels down, remove the roof, then install the new asphalt roof followed by the panels, etc.

It should be noted that solar panel installation can last at least twenty-five years or more while a metal roof can last between forty to seventy years depending on its maintenance and upkeep. 

One might say that the whole asphalt and metal thing is moot at this point. But unlike asphalt, you don’t have to tear everything down, with a metal roof there’s no need to tear everything down. You may have to change your solar panels but not the roof.  This saves you time and money in the long run, even if you don’t plan on staying longer in the area.

It is highly recommended to take the time, do research, and talk to local experts once you decide to get a renewable energy system. This will assist you in creating a well-thought-out plan and good decisions.

Types of Metal Roofs

There are different options to choose from with metal roofs. All of them boast a long lifespan that benefits the homeowner’s bank account long-term.

• Zinc Roofing - can last more than a hundred years because of its resistance to corrosion and self-healing capabilities. It naturally develops a patina over time that acts as a protective layer that aids in prolonging its lifespan.
  
  
• Steel Roofing - is a popular choice because of its budget-friendly, durability and strength. Its protective coating of either zinc or a zinc-aluminum combination aids in giving it a thirty to fifty years of lifespan.
  
  
• Copper Roofing - when properly maintained, can last for more than a century. It is known for being aesthetically pleasing and highly durable. It also develops a patina which acts as protection from corrosion.
  
  
• Aluminum Roofing - is the preferred choice in areas with high humidity because of its resistance against corrosion, including being energy efficient and lightweight. It can last between forty to seventy years.

A Guide on Installing Solar Panels on Metal Roof (Or any type of roofs)

If you have made up your mind that placing solar panels on your roof is the better option, here are some things to consider when installing the panels:

• Local Permits and Regulations
  Make sure to ask your HOA (if you’re part of an HOA) and your city governments for permits and approvals before getting started with your project. This will save you from future headaches and costly penalties that may arise if you fail to do so.
  
  
• The Roof’s Condition and Type 
  As mentioned above, there is a big difference when it comes to the type of roof you have when it comes to longevity, so be sure to check if your roof is able to withstand the weight. Asphalt roofs might need further support when installing the panels.
  
  Are there any obstructions in sight such as tall buildings and trees that could affect the amount of light the panels could be exposed to?
  
  What’s the condition of the roof? Is it old or new?
  
  Where you live also plays a factor here, if you're somewhere in the northern hemisphere, it is ideal for solar panels to be on a south-facing roof with a thirty to forty-five-degree of slant.
  
  
• Panel Quantity and Layout To know if your roof will be able to withstand the additional weight, make sure to determine the number of panels you’re going to need.
  
  The three factors that will help you determine the quantity are the amount of solar energy your household requires, the wattage of the solar panels, and the average amount of energy produced by solar panels in your area.

 A typical US household would require at least ten to twenty solar panels to reduce their average annual electricity consumption at zero percent.

Conclusion

It is not a novel idea to have solar panels on metal roofs. 

In fact, it is a popular and good idea to have to ensure that you get to experience your renewable energy system to its fullest potential without any compromise as they are known for their strength, durability, and longevity. 

Like any decisions in life, installing them requires a bit of work to ensure a lifetime of unhindered benefits. So be sure to tap with your local experts. You may reach us here at Nature’s Generator if you need any help or information on solar panel installation.

* We want to give credit where credit is due. Professional writer, Cris Ilao, contributed research and content to this blog titled: Can You Put Solar Panels on a Metal Roof? Thank you, Cris, for your contributions!