Solar Panels for Metal Roofing
The solar industry is growing, perhaps because of the world’s initiative to commit to more sustainable energy sources. After all, coal-fired power plants will eventually run out of coal or fossil fuels as long as the sun is there.
Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells (usually made of silicon) and are attached to the roof surface of a house or building to expose them to the sun and allow them to absorb photons, which they can partially convert into electrical energy.
As more and more people want to turn to solar energy, there is growing concern about whether these sun-dependent materials are good for them. Some fear that solar panels for metal roofing may not be as efficient. Others are hesitant because the cost may not be well offset by the energy savings if they are to be implemented.
This article will address one such hesitation. This article will address the question of whether metal roof types can accommodate solar equipment. It will also indicate whether this type of fastening is recommended.
Can You Install Solar Panels on Metal Roofing?
Is the installation of solar panels for metal roofing a good idea? If this is your main concern, you can start looking for panels because the answer is a confirmed yes. It is actually a great idea to attach this type of system on this type of roof. There are many advantages to this type of project. If you like environmentally friendly materials, this type of roofing trumps petroleum-based asphalt in terms of durability and biodegradability.
Contrary to popular belief, this material may also be able to hold the panels in place quite well. One thing to note, however, is that metal roofs come in a variety of shapes. There are trapezoidal, wavy and sinusoidal corrugations and their shape can influence the way the solar system is attached to them.
Pros and Cons of Installing Solar Panels on Metal Roof
So, we’ve addressed the concern of whether it is possible to fix solar panels for metal roofs. The next step is to determine the advantages and contradictions of this solution. Apart from the fact that metal is the most environmentally friendly choice, the combination of a metal roof and a solar panel also offers better guarantees.
If you have shingle or tile roofing systems, these can break and you may have to reattach your panels if you decide to repair your roof, which can threaten the warranty of your solar system.
Since metal systems are usually made in one piece, you don’t have to worry about the possibility of parts breaking off. You protect your metal roof by covering it with solar cells, and you protect your cells from being reattached due to the uniqueness and durability of the metal.
Metal roof solar panels can also cool your space. The panels provide an extra layer of shade inside your home and the panels absorb light while protecting your roof. If you live in a predominantly warm climate and require constant ventilation, a cooler home can result in less ventilation and energy consumption. It’s truly a win-win situation. In addition to the fact that you are able to extend the life of both equipment.
It should be noted, however, that the shape can make it difficult to attach the photovoltaic panels to your roof. Due to their irregular shape, you may need an additional mounting device to securely attach the panels and fill the space between the ridges. You should also remember that metals are prone to corrosion, so you can avoid attaching the brackets to those parts of your metal roof solar panels.
Tips for Metal Roof Solar Mounting
If you’re convinced that fixing solar panels for metal roofs is a good idea, there are a few points to consider before proceeding with the installation. First of all, check the strength of your metal roof. Some roofs are too thin or are not well attached to your home’s foundation, which can cause problems later when the panels are ready to be mounted.
If they are a few decades old, you may want to consider replacing them before you move. If your roof has insulation underneath, you may need spacers when you attach your panels so that the insulation is not crushed.
Find the perfect fastener that will fit your metal roof solar panels. There’s no point in trying to bend your roof seal just to make the collar fit, as this will void your roof’s limited warranty. Take measurements before you purchase the collar to make sure you have the right size.
If you have an inverted seam apron, you may find markings that allow it to be installed without disrupting the flow of water on your roof or crushing the apron due to space limitations.
Also consider using waterproof, self-piercing screws. This will protect the surface of your panel and the roof underneath from corrosion. This will also keep your roof warranty intact and safe from cancellation. If in doubt, consult a structural engineer, who can help you identify the right tools and brackets to secure the panels chosen in your roofing system.
Flexible Solar Panels for Metal Roofing
As you may already know, there are three common types of photovoltaic cells: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film. Of these three types, monocrystalline is the most durable because of the arrangement of the atoms in this type.
However, the most flexible solar panels for metal roofing are thin film ones. This type can be made with cadmium telluride, copper selenide, indium, gallium or amorphous silicon thin film. The thinner they are, the more they can be adapted to different roof shapes.
This is probably the reason why those made with cadmium telluride are preferred. If you wish to install panels on your roof without drilling or penetration, you can opt for this lightweight alternative. They will not require any additional costs for the purchase of a special mounting as they can easily be adapted to the structural shape of your metal roof.
Of course, you cannot expect to achieve the same level of efficiency with this type of panel as with crystalline panels, so you want to have the best possible angle to get the maximum amount of sunlight.
Conclusion
The green shift in solar panel installations can be made even greener with metal type roofs. This combination makes your home a little cooler and your energy consumption less. It can also help maximize the efficiency of your solar system and extend its life. With the available mounting brackets, you can attach the panels to any roof shape with the help of a professional.
However, before you move, you should make sure you have good quality metal and panels. You must also install them properly (or by professionals, if possible) so as not to void the warranties of both systems. This way, if you follow our advice, you will be able to make a sustainable choice for decades to come while helping the planet save its resources.
