August 7, 2019

As the state of California sets a precedent by announcing that all new homes must have solar power, there will undoubtedly be a shift in the way homeowners throughout the US and Canada think about roofs and the options available to them.

The California Energy Commission have stated that when the new solar standards begin to kick in, consumers will be able to save up to $80 every month on utility bills, proving unequivocally that there is a sound ROI on the purchase of solar panels, whether state funded or bought from personal funds. But it’s not enough to simply install solar panels on homes, the roof that the panels will be attached to needs to be given careful consideration, too:

Why does it matter what a roof is made from when solar panels are fitted?

Experts have warned that the financial benefits of having solar panels installed on a roof, may be quickly eradicated if the roof they’re attached to isn’t strong enough. If a roof falls into disrepair or becomes damaged, then the cost of having that repaired will wipe out any savings – potential or already made – that the solar panels may have led to.

So, what type of roof should be underneath solar panels and why does it matter so much?

• A roof should be a long-term investment

Metal roofs usually give the homeowner the best guarantee that it will outlast the solar panels attached to it. With the average lifespan of a metal roof being at least 50 years, and solar panels lasting from between 20 and 25 years, your roof should be still be in a good enough condition when you need to replace your solar panels. The cost of having both exchanged, renewed or repaired at the same time, might not come as a pleasant surprise.

• A metal roof will easily take the weight of solar panels

Solar systems can be weighty, and only the strongest of roofs will be able to support the panels without breaking. Metal is renowned for being incredibly strong and durable, and most solar systems can be attached to it using a clip instead of having to drill holes which can lead to faults and leaks.

• For the best energy saving results, stick to metal

Metal roofs are often referred to as being cool, and when combined with a solar system, they can help you to save even more on your energy bills. A metal roof that has been coated in a special substance can reflect more solar power and giving a higher infrared emittance, which is always going to be good news from a financial, and environmental standpoint.

• Significantly lower the impact on the environment

When a metal roof eventually reaches the end of its lifespan, it can be recycled rather than dumped, and while it is in good condition, it will resist moss and fungus, meaning that you should never need to use strong chemical treatments to treat it.

If you’re considering purchasing solar panels for your home, then be sure to contact your local roofing company to find out if your existing roof is compatible, or if you need to change it for a metal one. They will guide you through your options and expertly install or upgrade your existing roof to ensure that it’s the perfect match for a solar system.