Solar power is fast gaining popularity as a source of renewable energy.
In 2017 alone, 10.6 gigawatts of solar capacity was installed across America. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel installation is rapidly becoming more affordable, and many people are now considering installing solar panels in their homes or businesses to tap into cheaper and cleaner energy.
If you are part of this growing group, here is a primer on what you need to know about installing solar panels.
Solar Panel Installation on a Metal Roof
Metal roofs are well suited for solar panel installation for several reasons:
- Durability
When considering solar energy, the life expectancy of your investment is a critical determinant of the outcome. Solar PV panels last for 25 to 30 years. For you to achieve cost-effective solar energy production levels, the life expectancy of your roof type needs to outstrip that of the PV panels you intend to use.
Metal roofs offer the kind of durability necessary to generate cost-effective solar energy. A 2014 Metal Construction Association study found that metal roofs can last for 60 years. When you choose metal roofs, you ensure that your quest for renewable energy doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg in the long run due to a need to replace your roof type.
Metal roofs that come coated with reflective paint keep your home cool during the summer. Installing solar panels on metal roofs with such paint coating helps to lower further the energy used to regulate indoor temperature. As a result, the combination of metal roofs and solar panels can enable you to attain higher levels of energy efficiency and the attendant cost savings.
- Sustainability
A Compelling reason to adopt metal roofs over any other type is that they are manufactured from recycled materials. Using metal roofs will help you promote environmental sustainability as you contribute to increased utilization of recycled materials which ultimately lowers pollution.
- Solar Panel Type Flexibility
There are two types of PV solar panels namely silicon and thin-film photovoltaic panels. Silicon panels are bulkier while the thin-film photovoltaic ones are flexible. You can use both types of solar panels on metal roofs, and this gives you the flexibility of choice. In addition to these, you can also use solar laminates on metal roofing. PV solar laminates come in strips that adhere to the metal roof surface offering another alternative means of harvesting solar energy.
- Resilient to High Winds
Unlike other types of roofing, metal roofs perform well in high winds. Ensure that the solar panels you use are fastened securely and correctly using brackets. The correct way to secure solar panels using brackets is to fix it through the highest point in the metal roofing while setting a seal between the brackets and the metal sheets. Such an arrangement ensures that the metal roof anchors the solar panels securely to benefit from the metal roof’s resilience to high winds.
Further Considerations on Solar Panel Installation on a Metal Roof
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 don’t 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.
Does My Type of Roof Impact the Output of the Solar Panels?
Metal roofs or whatever roofing type you have does not affect the output of the solar tiles.
Will Any Drilling Be Necessary?
A standing-seam roof does not require any drilling to install solar panels. The racks on which the solar panels sit can be bolted directly to your roof rafters; therefore, no hole is created that can cause any leaking to occur.
Can any potential Leaks Cause Damage?
It is rare that you will experience any leaks due to solar panel installation. In case any leaks do arise contact your installer to check whether the repair will be covered under warranty. The best way to prevent any post-installation leaks is to have a professional evaluation by an installer beforehand.
How Will Net Metering Affect My Installation?
Net metering is where you send the excess electricity you generate back to the grid and receive a credit for it in return. With net metering, your power bill will arise from the difference between the electricity your solar panel system produces and that which you consume over a month.
How Does the 30% Federal Tax Credit Impact My Installation?
The 30% federal tax credit will see you deduct 30% of the cost of installing your residential or commercial solar energy system from your federal taxes. There is no cap on the value of the deductible amount.
Conclusion
Solar energy is a clean and affordable source of power that requires the installation of solar panels to generate electricity. Factor in all the requirements to understand how to achieve energy efficiency in your home or business
