The Reason You Should Have a Steel Roof for Solar Panels

Solar panels on roofs are increasing in popularity and photovoltaic (PV) modules are the most common type of panel being installed. But not many homeowners are taking into consideration the long-term effects of these panels on their roofs. Sure, the energy savings are what you typically gravitate toward when considering installing PVs, but what happens when you need to replace or repair your roof?

Luckily, with a steel roof, you won't have to worry about replacement or repairs as much as you would with shingles or tiles. CanAm Steel roof panels are the perfect option for restructuring your roof so that it can have a life span longer than your PV panels. Call us today for more information.

[Read more of "Why solar panels and steel roofs form a long-lasting partnership" here]

Taken from the article:
"Matching the life of the roof material to the life of the solar panel
It’s not a matter of simply installing an array of PV’s on an existing shingled roof; that could be a serious error. Why? Solar panels have a life expectancy of 30 to 35 years. What would be the point of installing an expensive array of PV’s on a roof that might require replacement or repair in only 15 to 20 years, even less? That would mean disconnecting and removing the panels in order to service or replace the roof membrane or tiles, storing those components safely, and then reassembling the system back on the new roof. Costs could run into the thousands, more if any panels were damaged in the process.

Steel roofs deliver long term value
Many steel roofs offer warranties as long as 45 years. Even without the distraction of a solar array brought into the equation, the industry has long argued that steel roofs deliver the best long-term value despite slightly higher upfront costs. In many cases, a steel roof can be a positive sales feature when the original owner moves on. This is on top of the fact that the steel is fully recyclable at the end of its long useful life, unlike asphalt shingles which usually end up in the landfill, which somewhat negates the environmental gains by installing solar in the first place.

And while talking about the protection from the sun’s rays that a solar array gives, that can sometimes backfire on a traditional tiled roof in warm, humid conditions. That heat and humidity under the panels can promote fungus growth, something steel roofs discourage because of the zinc in the coatings."

Originally Posted on: The Reason You Should Have a Steel Roof for Solar Panels