Steel house installation of photovoltaic panels

Can solar be installed on a metal roof?

Most homeowners with solar in the United States install standard silicon solar panels, but homes with metal roofs have another option: thin-film solar. Thin-film solar can only be installed on certain types of roofs, and standing seam metal roofs are ideal surfaces for it.

How to install solar panels on a roof?

The foremost requirement is the structural strength of the roof, which should be capable of supporting the additional weight of the solar panels and the mounting structure. The solar panel mounting structure is usually made of mild steel or aluminum, which adds minimal weight but provides adequate support to the panels 1.

Can you install solar panels on an aging asphalt roof?

You definitely don't want to install solar panels on an aging asphalt roof, which could cost you down the line: If you need to replace your roof before your solar panels, you'll waste money removing and re-installing your panels. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are the most durable conventional roofing material available.

Can crystalline solar panels be mounted on a metal roof?

However, crystalline panels are bulkier, and use a special mounting system, which requires roof penetrations. The only exception is a standing seam metal roof. You can attach an S-5 solar panel holding brackets to the raised seams of a standing seam roof.

Are metal roofs a good choice for a solar PV system?

However, metal roofs are unique enough to have their own installation considerations. Metal roofs will outlast the service life of a solar PV system, so it is critical that the mounting system and all attachments protect and maintain the durability of the roof.

Can a PV system be installed on a metal roof?

Of course, as was outlined in the first entry, the first consideration for installing a pv system on a metal roof should be to verify that the existing metal roof has a remaining roof life of at least 30 years.