There’s a lot you need to consider when deciding whether or not to install a solar panel system on your roof.
Going solar is one of the more rewarding things you can do, both for your impact on the planet and your wallet. If you can afford the installation, you’re going to break even and start saving money in no time at all. That said, there are some things you need to remember before you start.
In this post, we’re going to talk about different types of roofing materials and how they impact your decision to go solar. Not all roofing materials are conducive to installing solar panels, so read on and you’ll learn if your roof is right for solar and what to do if it isn’t.
The Importance of Roof Compatibility for Solar Panels
Unless you have the space for a ground-level solar panel system, which requires a lot of extra yard space, then you need to mount them on your roof. The solar industry and roofing industry thus need to work in tandem to ensure that solar power can be obtained by a large number of people. Fortunately, most residential roofing types are suitable for solar panels.
Of course, some roofing materials are better than others. You always have to consider the fact that installing solar panels on your roof adds a significant amount of weight that wasn’t there before, so the roof itself has to be structurally sound and made of quality materials.
Best Types of Roofing Materials for Solar Power
You can install solar panels on different roof types, from asphalt shingles to metal. If you want the best foundation for your solar panels, then the roof has to be very strong. Here are how different roofing types stack up:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing type in America because they’re strong, flexible, and affordable. They’re also probably the best foundation for putting solar panels on and most solar companies across the country, including at https://blueravensolar.com/utah/salt-lake-city/, design their solar panels to fit on asphalt shingled roofs.
Metal
Metal roofing with standing seams actually makes it incredibly easy to install solar panels, which can reduce the amount and cost of labor during installation.
Tiles
While installing solar panels on tile roofing can be more expensive, tile roofs tend to last a bit longer than metal or asphalt shingles. Every 20-25 years (or if there are signs of damage), you’ll have to replace an asphalt shingle roof, which becomes more difficult when you’ve also got a solar panel system set up.
Is Your Roof Right for Solar?
Now that you know a bit more about the solar process and which types of roofing materials will work best, you can talk to your local residential solar company about how to proceed with your solar installation. You can install a great solar panel system on almost any type of roof, but ensuring that your roof is structurally sound enough to support solar panels is something a solar provider can help you with as you move forward.
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