Solar power is the most plentiful energy source on earth. We receive enough solar energy every hour to power the entire world for a year.
Certain factors can discourage people from converting clean and renewable solar energy into electricity and savings, however. Your roof has to hold the weight and heat of solar panels, which can make homeowners wary about solar installation.
Do you have a metal roof? Are you worried it’s incompatible with solar installation? We have all the information you need to put those fears to rest.
How Solar Installation Works
The actual solar installation is a straightforward process. But you’ll need expert evaluation before it can begin.
Engineers will go over your home’s electrical system to make sure it can be integrated with solar energy. They’ll also check your roof to ensure there are no structural issues.
Your solar installer will also evaluate your roof. They’ll need to know your roof’s size, angle, and position to figure out the best placement for your solar panels. Your roof material is another important factor.
Why a Metal Roof is Great for Solar Panels
The majority of roof types are solar panel compatible. But some roof materials work better with solar installation than others.
If you’ve ever touched your car’s seatbelt buckle on a hot day, you know firsthand that metal can be an excellent conductor of heat. A common assumption is that a metal roof will make a home hotter on sunny days.
It seems counterintuitive, but a metal roof actually has high energy efficiency and is an excellent reflector of UV rays. Metal roofs also have additional features that make them prime for solar panels.
Metal Roof Lifespan
A solar panel’s average lifespan is 25-30 years. A residential roof’s lifespan averages around 30 years, according to Roofing Calculator.
It can be extra costly to replace your roof after you’ve already paid for solar installation. Fortunately, metal roofs average a longer lifespan (40-70 years) than other roofs. Some types of metal can even make it to 100 years.
Metal Roof Durability
Metal roofs average a longer lifespan thanks to their durability. Metal is more weather-resistant, pest-resistant, and mold-resistant than other materials like wood or asphalt shingles.
A metal roof will also be more durable to the added weight of solar panels. And metal is already well-equipped to handle the extra heat reflection and absorption.
Metal Roof Condition
Your roof’s condition is a key factor for solar installation. Any minor and major repairs should be made before adding solar panels. This cuts down on costs and complications.
Metal roofs are very durable, so chances are your metal roof will be in relatively good condition. And repairs are will be cheaper than other roof materials, like slate.
Metal Roof Mounting
Metal roofs are excellent for mounting solar panels. They minimize drilling holes into your roof, which can cause leaks during sloppy solar installation.
Depending on the type of metal roof you have, installers can use clamps, brackets, or tiles. Only corrugated metal roofs may require some drilling, due to the thinner metal.
Save Money on a Brighter Future by Going Solar
A metal roof is one of the best roof types you can have for solar installation. It’s long-lasting and durable. It also makes roof preparation and solar installation easier.
Don’t miss out on solar savings. If you live in the Kansas City or Missouri area, contact us for a free quote today! Our experts are ready to give you high-quality services at affordable prices.
