Is My Roof Appropriate for Solar Panels?

When consumers begin the process of studying a potential solar PV system, one of the first concerns they ask is, "Is my roof even appropriate for solar panels?" "Solar panels are compatible with most roofing materials, but some are better for solar than others." Continue reading for Xpress Industries' entire guide to assessing whether your roof is suitable for solar.

The Five Best Solar Roof Types

Most roofing materials are compatible with solar panels, including:

1. Metal Standing Seam

The "standing seams" on many metal roofs make solar panel installation simple. In most cases, mounting solutions that clamp onto the seams allow systems to be fitted without drilling any holes in your roof. Metal roofs are also excellent insulators and energy savers, making them ideal candidates for solar.

2. Standard Clay Tile and Cement Tile

Solar installers can easily work on clay tile roofs, both standard and Cement tile. For solar installations on tile roofs, standard penetrating mounts can be used, and some firms now provide solar panel mounts that are built into a clay or Cement tile to make installation even easier.

3. Asphalt

Solar installers can simply work on asphalt roofs without fear of harm. For solar installations on asphalt roofs, standard penetrating mounts can be used.

4. EPDM Rubber 

EPDM rubber is typically seen on commercial structures and is utilized on flat roofs. Solar installers working on flat EPDM roofs use a weighted mounting device (also known as a ballast system), which eliminates the need for roof holes. As a result, EPDM installations are typically less expensive than rooftop systems with penetrated roof mounts.

5. TPO and PVC

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofs, like EPDM roofs, are typically flat and use ballast systems to place solar panels. TPO and PVC installs are reasonably priced.

Some roof types are less compatible with solar. Slate and wood roofs are challenging for solar installers to work on because they are brittle and can shatter. Because installers cannot walk on the roof without destroying it, they require specialized mounting components and equipment. This means that slate and wood roof installations are more expensive.

Other Questions to Consider When Evaluating Your Roof

The material of your roof plays an important role in your home's solar adaptability, but it isn't necessarily the decisive element. There are a few additional questions you may ask to determine if your home is solar-ready.

1. Which Direction Does Your Roof Face?

Solar PV panels work best on a large, north-facing roof (at least in the southern hemisphere). They should ideally face true north, which is slightly different from magnetic north as determined by a compass. Look up your roof, and hence your property, on Google Maps to see if it is suitable for solar. The grid will tell you which direction true south is if you show it to someone. If you are unable to orient your panels to true south, southeast and southwest facing panels will suffice, and employing a rack will assist you in achieving the ideal orientation.

If you can't handle a northern exposure on your roof, east and west exposures are still options depending on shade. Especially when solar panels aren't pointing straight north, they can still generate considerable amounts of electricity, even in areas with limited sunlight. Also, if your roof orientation isn't ideal, you can put your panels on the ground or on another structure, like a shed or garage.

2. How Much Shade Does Your Roof Provide?

Because shade can have an impact on the performance and output of your solar panels, you'll need to determine how much shade your roof receives and for how long during the day. Shade can come from adjacent buildings, your own chimney, or trees around your home. Your installer can assist you in determining the implications of your specific scenario. You can't do much about neighboring buildings or your chimney, but you might consider removing or cutting trees to provide less shade.

3. What Is the Age of Your Roof?

Solar panel systems can endure for 25-40 years, so be sure your roof is in good condition and won't need to be changed in the near future.

4. What Is the Form and Size of Your Roof?

Panels are easier to put on a large square roof. A common rule of thumb is that you will require approximately 100 square feet of roof space for each Kw of your system capacity. Remember that dormers, turrets, and skylights will reduce the amount of available area.

5. Is Your Roof Level or Slanted?

Flat roofs are acceptable. If you have a slanted roof, the optimal angle is between 30 and 40 degrees. Keep in mind that for panels to be self-cleaning, they must be at a temperature of at least 15 degrees. The highest possible angle is 40 degrees (any steeper and performance will not be efficient).

6. Who Owns the Roof?

This appears to be a silly question to include at first glance. The majority of people who are thinking about installing solar PV own the property where it will be put. However, as solar becomes increasingly popular, an increasing number of renters are initiating solar installations and persuading their landlords to consider this alternative.

What Should You Do if Your Roof Isn't Suitable for Solar?

If your roof isn't suitable for installing a solar panel system, there are other solar choices available, such as:

• Putting put a ground-mounted solar panel installation somewhere else on your property
• Constructing a solar panel carport to power your home while also providing shade for your vehicle

• Invest in a solar garden share, which provides you with the benefits of rooftop solar generated by a huge solar panel array in your neighborhood.

Begin Your Solar Journey With Xpress Industries Today

Brendale's solar supplier and installer, Xpress Industries, competes for your business with unique solar bids tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn how much money you can save by going solar.