Can Solar Panels Be Installed on a Metal Roof?

At Armstrong Steel, one of the common questions we get is whether it’s possible to install solar panels on metal buildings. We understand that many customers — from homeowners to businesses — want a more energy-efficient building for long-term savings, so they want to integrate renewable power into their projects.

The short answer is yes — it’s possible to install solar panels on metal roofs. In fact, strong and durable metal roofs are often considered ideal for solar panel installations because they can easily be engineered to support the weight of solar panels and their mounting systems.

In this blog, we will look at the advantages of combining metal buildings with solar panel technology. We’ll also talk about installing solar panels on metal roofs, their benefits, maintenance tips, and more. 

Solar panel 101

Let’s start with the basics of solar panels so you can understand how they work and why they are suitable for metal buildings. 

The basics 

Solar panels harness sunlight’s energy through photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells, often made of silicon, absorb photons from sunlight to generate direct current (DC) electricity. Inverters then convert this DC power into alternating current (AC) power.

Solar panels are a versatile energy source capable of powering devices as small as a phone to large-scale structures like metal buildings. While current residential solar panels typically range from 13% to 22.8% efficiency, researchers are pushing the boundaries and aiming to develop cells with up to 39.5% efficiency. This advancement will make solar power even more efficient and suitable for a wider range of applications, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for both homeowners and businesses to meet their energy needs.

How reliable are solar panel technologies? 

A solar panel is composed of multiple interconnected photovoltaic cells encased in a protective housing. These cells are arranged in a grid-like pattern to maximize sunlight absorption and generate DC electricity.

Durability is a key factor in the long-term performance of solar panels, especially for applications like metal buildings. Solar panel manufacturers design their products to withstand hail, snow, rain, and harsh weather conditions.

Additionally, high-quality solar panels can boost the energy efficiency of metal buildings by around 5%. This is thanks to the natural cooling effect that shades the roof. When installed on a metal roof, they minimize heat absorption to allow better air circulation between the roofing and panels. In turn, this helps dissipate heat and cool your building more effectively, allowing your air-conditioning system to work efficiently.

Choosing solar panels for metal roofing

Solar panels are available in three primary types: polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin-film. Each type offers unique advantages in terms of aesthetics, efficiency, and cost.

• Polycrystalline panels: Costs lower than monocrystalline but may be slightly less efficient
• Monocrystalline panel: Known for its sleek aesthetics and high efficiency
• Thin-film panel: Offers flexibility for installation on any surface but is less efficient than panels made of crystalline

The best choice for your metal roof will depend on your specific needs and budget. Metal roofs are particularly well-suited for solar panel installation due to their stability and durability, which provide an excellent mounting surface. 

Understanding the metal roof 

Metal roofs are a popular choice for metal buildings because they are durable and can be customized to suit any design preference. High-quality metal roofs are typically constructed from interlocked steel or aluminum panels to create a watertight barrier. Some roofs may also be made from copper or other materials.

If you’re environmentally conscious, metal roofs are an excellent option. Many metal roofs are constructed from recycled materials and can also be recycled once they reach the end of their useful life. This makes them a sustainable roofing solution that can reduce your carbon footprint. Additionally, metal roofs are compatible with solar panels, so you can harness renewable energy and further enhance your building’s sustainability.

Explore the types and styles of metal roofs.

Metal roofing is available in various styles, each with unique features that can influence how solar panels are installed on them.

• Metal shingles: These shingles mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials like slate or wood but offer the benefits of metal, such as low maintenance and durability.
• Corrugated metal: The corrugated design of these roofs provides additional rigidity and strength, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
• Standing seam metal: This roofing style features raised, interlocking seams that create a sleek, modern appearance while ensuring efficient water drainage.

Before installing solar panels, it’s essential to understand the specific type of metal roof on your building. This information will help determine the most appropriate mounting method and optimize the overall energy efficiency of your solar system.

Are metal roofs durable for solar panel installation? 

Much like our metal buildings, high-quality metal roofing can endure nature’s wrath. With proper installation, they can withstand harsh weather, including heavy snowfall and high winds up to 140 mph. Plus, they will last around 40 to 70 years, significantly longer than asphalt shingles. This durability helps enhance energy efficiency for solar panel installation and reduces waste and replacements down the line.

In addition, metal roofs are lighter than most traditional materials, so they reduce stress on metal buildings even after installing solar panels. This helps minimize the risk of structural damage down the road. Just be sure to take the time to check your structure and conduct routine maintenance so everything lasts for decades. Your metal roofing and building will pay you off over time, and you can enjoy more cost-efficiency by installing solar panels.

So, can you install solar panels on a metal roof?

Absolutely! Yes, it’s possible to install solar panels on a metal roof. For one, metal roofing offers a stable and durable foundation for solar panels to support dependable energy efficiency and electricity generation for many years.

In addition, metal roofs are compatible with rail-less solar panel mounting systems that significantly reduce the amount of material needed for installation, leading to a 60% reduction in shipping costs. This streamlined approach also reduces labor costs by 30-50% due to fewer components required.

Is your metal roof suitable for solar panels? 

You might be excited to buy solar panels now that you know that you can install them on a metal roof. But before proceeding, check if your roof is appropriate for installation. Inspections are particularly important for older metal buildings that have been around for quite some time.

Evaluate factors like shading, roof orientation, available space, and structural integrity. When in doubt, you can always consult a professional solar panel installer for a thorough assessment. They can also recommend a tailored solution for your situation.

Take the time to understand your building’s energy needs. We recommend assessing your electricity consumption patterns so you can pick solar panels that can generate sufficient energy. This will allow you to choose the right placement and size for the solar array.

Challenges to expect in solar panel installation and their solutions

Most metal roofs work well with solar panels, but you might run into a few challenges. For instance, you might need special mounts to attach the panels, or you could find that vents or other features on the roof make installation a bit tricky. Also, the specific type of metal roof you have can affect how the panels are installed.

Another challenge is making sure the solar panels look good with your metal building. It can be tough to match the panels to your roof in a way that doesn’t clash with your building’s style. To handle these challenges, it’s best to work with an experienced installer. They can help you figure out the right mounts for your specific roof and design a setup that looks great and works efficiently.

Installing solar panels on a metal roof

Installing solar panels on metal roofs takes several steps and careful planning, but it’s well worth it. Once you see the benefits and the positive impact on the environment, you’ll know all the effort paid off.

By absorbing sunlight that would otherwise directly heat the roof, solar panels can improve a building’s efficiency quite significantly. This can lower your cooling costs, especially if your buildings are in sunny climates. Additionally, some metal roofs have reflective properties that can further enhance energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight that isn’t absorbed by the solar panels back into the atmosphere.

Using the sun’s power also minimizes your carbon footprint and lets you contribute to sustainability efforts in your community. Shifting to a renewable energy source and choosing metal buildings will not only benefit you but also everyone in the long run.

Do you need permits to install solar panels?

Check with local authorities to find out more about the necessary approvals and permits before installing solar panels on your metal buildings. This ensures that your installation meets building regulations and codes so you can avoid fines and having to do expensive rework down the line. More importantly, it ensures that your solar panel system is efficient and safe.

Don’t forget to connect to the grid. 

Don’t forget to connect your solar panels to the main electrical grid. This allows you to send excess electricity back to the grid and draw power when needed. You may also be eligible for net metering programs, which can reduce your electricity bills and increase your energy independence.

Building with metal

At Armstrong Steel, we offer prefabricated metal buildings that can accommodate all roof styles, including metal roofs that can support solar panels. Don’t hesitate to use our steel building systems for your new project. Contact us today so we can price your building! Call 1-800-345-4610.

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