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Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles are by far the most widely used roofing material in the United States. On the plus side, solar panel installation on top of asphalt shingle roofs is straightforward and only requires drilling studs to into roofing 2x4s where panel mounts are placed. Metal flashing is placed around these holes to avoid potential water damage. This type of roof allows for easy and relatively inexpensive installation. One of the main drawbacks is that asphalt shingle roofs only have an expected lifespan of around 15 to 18 years, while solar panel warranties typically last up to 30 years. Homeowners will likely have to replace their roof sometime during the lifetime of their solar panels. This process of taking down and reinstalling the solar panels may lead to extra expense and possible damage to the solar array. For wood shingle roofs, solar panels are also relatively easy to install; though wood shingles can be brittle and prone to cracking during installation.
Clay Tile Roofs
Clay tile roofs are a beautiful and natural roofing option. Unfortunately, the installation of solar panels on this type of roof is generally labor-intensive and can lead to higher installation costs. Most installers will be forced to remove parts of the clay tiles to access the studs where the solar panel mounts are fastened. In the best-case scenario, the clay tiles can then be replaced around the solar mounting rack. The downside is that installers will have to purchase and install custom-sized hooks and flashings to cover up the holes where the mounting racks are bolted into the roofing studs. This can increase cost and compromise the aesthetics of a clay tile roof. Improper installation can lead to damaging water leaks. The same concerns relate to both slate and concrete tile roofs.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are perhaps the best fit for solar panel installation. Metal roofs offer a solid surface and long-term durability for the panels. For homes that have a standing seam metal roof, many installers will not even have to drill holes in the roofing. The panel mounts can be clamped and firmly secured to the raised seams. If installers do need to drill holes through the roofing material, several waterproofing sealants are compatible with metal roofs to prevent moisture from getting into your house. Metal roofs can easily last for anywhere between 40 and 70 years. And, because they often contain large amounts of recycled aluminum, metal roofs one of the most sustainable roofing alternatives.
Tobias Roberts
Tobias runs an agroecology farm and a natural building collective in the mountains of El Salvador. He specializes in earthen construction methods and uses permaculture design methods to integrate structures into the sustainability of the landscape.
