Believe it or not, not all roofs are created equal. Some are more durable, some are more attractive, and some are simply more practical.
If you’re interested in going solar but you need to replace your roof first, you’ll want to do some research on the different types of roofs to determine which is best for solar panels.
Some Different Types of Roofs for Solar Panels
Finding the right type of roofing for solar panel installation can help you get the best possible results if you’re considering going solar. Here’s different types of roofs and the ones best for solar installation:
- Tile Roofing – Tile roofing can be slate, concrete, metal, clay, ceramic, and synthetic cedar. The type of tile is important in the cost of the installation, as clay tiles have a more expensive installation than concrete for solar panels.
- Shingle Roofing – Potentially the best, and the most common, roofing that can be used for solar panel installation. It has the most options and lowers the need for special equipment, lowering the cost and labor. However, if the shingles are more than 15 years old, you may want to consider replacing them prior to the solar installation.
- Metal Seam Roofing – A close second best for solar panels, a metal roof makes the panel attachment easy and simple. It is also an eco-friendly choice for your roofing material, lasting over 30 years from recycled materials. It can reflect sunlight that helps provide a cooling effect.
- Tar-Gravel Roofing – If you have a flat roof you may have a tar and gravel type. These are layered hot tar and roofing felt with some other minerals added for coating. These types of roofs will need additional brackets so that they can be tilted, while still a simple installation, it does make it a little more expensive than other options. It is still a great option for upgrading to solar panels for your energy efficiency.
Our best recommendation is for tile or shingle roofing for the easiest and cheapest installation. There are only a few roofing conditions that do not lend well for solar installation, but these can also be modified.
What Different Types of Roofs Aren’t Good for Solar Panels?
While there is a wide variety of roof options that are perfect for the solar panel installation, there are a few things that don’t do well. Here’s a few of them:
- Complex Roofs – roofing with a lot of chimneys, skylights, tiers, pipes, etc. are not good for solar panels as they create design challenges for installation.
- Wood Roofs – there are limited options for those with wooden roofs, however you can use a ground mount solar design.
- Old Roofs – if there are too many aged or worn areas on the roofing, it is best to have it repaired or replaced for the installation.
By talking with your solar professional, you’re able to see what will and will not work well with your solar panel installation. There are many options that can be presented, depending on your style and budget.
Energy-efficient Roofing From Roofing Optimum
Roofing Optimum are here to help you understand all about renewable energy and solar panel installation. Contact us for an appointment and to learn more about your options in energy efficient resources.
