We thought it would be a good idea to examine the topic of solar panels on different roofs. Specifically, what’s the difference in solar panel installations between standing seam metal roofs and metal roof shingles?
As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, more and more people are considering solar panel installation for their homes. But not all roofs are created equal when it comes to solar panel installation. Homeowners or property owners should consider the differences between a standing seam roof and a metal shingle roof when deciding which type of roof is best for their solar panel needs.
Let’s take a deep dive into understanding why these two types of roofs differ in regard to solar panel installation.
Solar Panels and Standing Seam Metal Panels
A standing seam metal roof is one of the most popular and cost-effective roofing styles used on residential homes. These types of roofs consist of vertical panels that run from the peak of the roof down to an eave system, typically with two seams running along the top ridge line. The seams themselves are raised above the surface of the panels, creating an interlocking pattern that enhances structural integrity while also providing an aesthetic appeal.
A standing seam roof is composed of metal sheets that are raised above the surface of the roof so that they form a “seam” along each edge. Standing seam roofs are incredibly durable, making them an ideal choice for homes located in areas that experience extreme weather conditions, such as hail or high winds.
Installing solar panels on a standing seam roof is relatively straightforward because they use clip-on attachments that can be easily installed without having to drill into the roofing material itself.
Another advantage that this type of roof offers homeowners looking to install solar panels is that special clips can be added at any time without having to remove or replace any existing components. This makes it easy to add additional solar panels during a future update, making it very versatile for both current and future projects.
Solar Panels and Metal Shingle Roofs
Metal shingle roofs are becoming increasingly popular in residential applications due to their versatility and relatively low cost compared with other types of metal roofs. These types of roofs have distinct advantages over traditional asphalt shingles, including increased fire resistance, higher wind ratings, longer life spans (up to 50 years or more), and lower maintenance requirements over time.
However, because the individual metal shingles overlap one another (just like traditional asphalt shingles), they require clips to secure the solar panel racking system in place. The special clips must be installed at the same time as the roof itself in order for them to function properly and securely hold your solar panel system in place for years to come. This means that if you ever want to add additional solar panels, it will require additional planning and work, possibly including a partial roofing uninstall and/or teardown.
Mountaintop Metal Roofing: Solar Panels
Installing solar panels can be a great way to reduce your energy costs, but the type of roof you have will determine the installation process you must use
When it comes time for you to decide which type of roof material is best suited for your home’s new solar panel installation project, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what your individual needs may be now as well as in the future.
However, by understanding how each type of roof material functions when combined with solar power generation systems attached to the roof, you can make an informed decision about which route is best suited for your home or business’s specific needs.
Armed with this knowledge you can make sure your investment in green energy solutions gets off on the right foot. When you attach solar panels or have solar panels mounted to a structure, you may see benefits quite soon, such as a reduced electricity bill.
A solar panel installation on a metal roofing system may help homeowners save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and make their homes more energy efficient. While both standing seam and shingle roofs can accommodate solar panel systems, they each require different methods of installation due to their varying construction materials and designs.
We’re happy to discuss solar power systems, federal solar tax credits, solar panel installations, and additional roofing styles, including cedar shake, corrugated metal roofs, and more. Let the Pacific Northwest’s metal roofing experts at Mountaintop Metal Roofing know if you have any questions.